Accessibility Tips for Library Resources

Students needing accessible formats for required course materials such as textbooks or documents should contact OSU's Disability Access Services (DAS) for assistance. Students needing accessible formats for non-required course-related readings or other research materials may request those materials and the type of alternate format needed from the OSU Libraries by submitting a request form, emailing valley.ill@oregonstate.edu, or by calling 541-737-4488. OSU Libraries will work to make reasonable accommodations.

Why Can't I Download My Textbook?

Ebook publishers will often restrict the type of ebook they will sell to libraries. Even if they have a version of an ebook that they will sell directly to students, they may include restrictions on the copy they sell to libraries - such as limiting how much of the book can be downloaded or requiring use of their platform. Sometimes they won't sell ebooks to libraries at all.

If a publisher won't sell an ebook to us, we have the option of creating our own ebook. However, copyright restrictions mean we aren't able to share a downloaded copy of the book.

Why Can't I Check Out a Copy for the Whole Term?

The library has limited funds for purchasing course materials. We make the best use of those funds by purchasing single copies for multiple people to share.

Accessible course design starts with identifying accessible course materials. Although materials can be remediated, it is always preferable to choose course materials that begin as accessibly as possible.

What Materials Are Accessible?

Accessibility needs vary depending on the student and learning experience desired. However, choosing materials that

• can be downloaded in full,
• are available as EPUB or HTML documents,
• include alternative text (if written material) or captions (if audio/visual)

is a good start! Contact your liaison librarian for help identifying options.

What Isn't Accessible?

Any item that must be used in one particular way is likely to have accessibility problems. For example, audio-only podcasts, or image-only text documents, would likely need remediation.