Making sure course materials are affordable means that all students will be able to access the readings and other course materials that promote learning.

The number of students who report not buying an access code to access online homework and quizzing increased from 17% in 2019 to 21% percent in 2020. (Nagle and Vitez, 2021)

Despite the cost of college tuition remaining stable since September 2019, textbook cost have continued to rise.  College Textbook prices have increased 34.5% since 2011 (US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021, August 31). TED: The Economics Daily)

In 2020, 65% of students surveyed reported not buying a course textbook because of cost. (Nagle and Vitez, 2021)

Submit textbook adoption information to textbook coordinators early: If students are given more notice of what materials will be used in their course, they will have more time to purchase the items before class starts. Bookstores are also more willing to buy back textbooks if they know there is going to be a demand next semester.

Suggest different editions: If another edition of a required course text will work, let your
students know. Often older editions can be found at a cheaper price

Place a print book on course reserve: If you would like a print book on course reserve at a library, submit your request at least two weeks before the start of classes.

Check eBook availability with libraries: See if the library has access to the eBook version of your current
textbook or a similar textbook. If you don’t see the item in our online catalog and would like to suggest a purchase please email reserves@purdue.edu.

Open textbooks: Explore open textbooks or Open Educational Resources that can replace your current, costly textbook.