It’s a brand new school year, brimming with opportunities for a successful future. While you might feel a little sad now that summer vacation is over, you’re also probably excited to see all your friends again, catch up with your classmates, and chat with your favorite teachers. But of course, the whole back-to-school experience isn’t complete without a trip to National Book Store to get some really nice school supplies and equipment that will inspire and motivate you to reach your goals, whatever they are.

Ban.do “Supercute Hearts” Umbrella


Whether it’s drizzling outside or the sun is blasting its rays, the Ban.do “Supercute Hearts” umbrella will keep you fresh and looking cute as you make your way from one end of the campus to the other.

Palomino “Blackwing” Pencils


Considered the Cadillac of pencils, the Palomino “Blackwing” pencil is the modern version of the iconic Blackwing pencils favored by countless writers, artists, and composers of the 20th century. These things are unlike any pencil you have ever used; it glides like butter on paper and is a real joy to use. The ideal tool for literature, art, and music students.

Kate Spade New York “Break The Ice” Cooler Bag


This toteable cooler bag is sure to turn heads on campus — and everywhere else you go. Its durable, shiny gold exterior conceals a spacious lining that’s perfect for stashing ice-cold drinks for your afternoon study sessions with your classmates.

International Arrivals Monster Gel Pens


One of the best things about going back to school is connecting with all your good friends. These International Arrivals “Monster” gel pens, connects with each other by their caps, so you and your friends can have fun building your own collection. They come in an assortment of colors and facial expressions to match your mood and personality. The fine tip point adds precision to your homework and creative doodles.

International Arrivals Padworks Monsters


Note-taking doesn’t have to be boring. The quirky Padworks “Monster Mouths” notepad will turn your everyday notes into fun-filled, colorful ones. It comes with 72 perforated sheets for easy tear-out, making sharing your notes and messages easy and convenient. Eight different fun and goofy monster designs are waiting for you to scribble in their gaping mouths. Great for school notes!

Kate Spade New York Large Notebook


Big ideas deserve big platforms. This spiral-bound large notebook from Kate Spade New York has more than enough space for all your school essays, lessons, and class assignments. Sometimes, bigger really is better.

Kate Spade New York “That Way” Paper Clips


Stop folding the corners of your books and notebooks to keep your place. These adorable Kate Spade “That Way” metal paper clips will ensure your notes are instantly accessible, whenever you need them. Now you can keep track of your lessons without ruining your precious books. And they look really nice, too!

Kate Spade New York “Top Of The Line” Pen Set


One of the best ways to learn and retain new information is to write your notes by hand. Studies show that the brain areas associated with learning light up during the physical act of writing. Write your class notes in style with this box set of Kate Spade New York “Top Of The Line” pens in bold, black and white patterns.

MoMa “Gallery Walls” Notebook


The habit of keeping a notebook and taking effective notes is one of the best ways to excel in your studies. The beautiful MoMa “Gallery Walls” notebook features images of walls from The MoMA and PS1’s galleries, and prompts you to fill the frames with your own notes, sketches, and ideas. Who said notebooks have to be boring?

MoMa “Snap It Up” Journal


Keep your goals on track this coming school year by keeping a journal. Writing down your thoughts and ideas is an excellent way of keeping your creative juices flowing and the inspiration coming. This clever MoMa “Snap It Up” journal will keep your thoughts artfully organized and on view in a snap. It features five colorful bands you can use to keep your pens, index cards, and more in place and ready to go whenever you need them.

ONLINE “College” 2-in-1 Rollerball


Digital devices may have already found their way in our classrooms but writing by hand is still the most convenient way to jot down your lessons. Recapture the joy of writing with the ONLINE “College” 2-in-1 rollerball pen. This high quality German pen comes with two interchangeable tips: a rollerball for your daily writing needs and a calligraphy point for those times when you need extra inspiration for your school essays.

Zipit “Animals” Kids Backpack


Kids will love this cute backpack’s unique design, turning the owl face into an elephant simply by opening the bag’s flaps — perfect for both boys and girls. Made with durable BPA/PVC/lead-free materials, the Zipit “Animals” backpack is roomy, comfortable, and ready for any activity your child finds himself in, from playtime to study time.

Zipit “Beast Box” Pencil Case


Leave no stuff behind! The Zipit “Beast Box” pencil case is so roomy, you can fit up to 111 pencils inside it if you wanted to. However, this jumbo utility case stores more than just pencils: sharpeners, erasers, crayons, scissors, you name it, the “Beast Box” can accommodate it all. It’s made with a durable, hard outer shell and comes in six unique designs that kids will absolutely adore.

Itoya “Color Chart” Collection


At last, iconic Japanese brand Itoya is finally here! The vibrant Itoya “Color Chart” range offers a colorful selection of products that will add a kawaii flair to your everyday school needs. Check out the Ecsaine shoulder bag, made of soft and light ultrasuede material that’s sure to make you stand out in a sea of ordinary backpacks. Don’t wear your books out before the school year ends, protect them with the Ecsaine Travelers book cover. While you’re at it, go all the way and complete your Japanese student look with the Ecsaine mechanical pencil, pen case, and ID card holder with strap.

Itoya “Contrail” Collection


Are you always on the move between classes? If so, Itoya’s line of “Contrail” pens and journals are perfect for you! Their fun, striking designs are easily identifiable inside cluttered school bags, ready to be picked up the moment inspiration strikes — or when your teacher announces a pop quiz. No wonder the “Contrail” collection is a favorite among casual Japanese pen and paper fans! They’re the perfect introduction to the wonderful world of Japanese stationeries.

Whatever you want to accomplish this coming school year, whether you’re in elementary, high school, or college, having stuff you actually like and enjoy using will help you do better in your studies and get you revved up for success. Start the school year right and jumpstart your academic lifestyle with all these cool finds and more, only at National Book Store: It Starts Here.