If I'm a part time college student can i deduct expenses for books

If you received a 1098-T, and are not claimed as a dependent on another tax return, you may be eligible for the Lifetime Learning Credit or the Tuition and Fees deduction if you were required to purchase the books from the college.

 

TurboTax will guide you through the questions needed to determine if you qualify for a tax deduction.  Click the "magnifying glass Search" icon on the top row, enter "education expenses" in the search window and press return or enter, and then click on the "Jump to education expenses" link.

 

See IRS Publication 970 at this link for information on the Lifetime Learning Credit.

 

See IRS Publication 970 at this link for information on the Tuition and Fees Deduction.

 

If you are half time or more, you may be eligible for the more generous American Opportunity  credit. 

You are not asking about tuition paid.  There's even a loop hole available to claim the credit, if you are on scholarship.