Between 1977-2015, the cost of textbooks has increased 1,041% and from 2002 - 2012, textbook inflation outpaced consumer price growth by 192.9% (Hanson, 2022). Results from the Virginia Course Materials Survey (Osterman et al., 2022) highlight the impact of course material costs on Virginia students' academic pursuits and well-being, and the compounding effect that costs have on students with multiple areas of concern (areas of concern include: Pell Grant funding, education loans, full-time jobs, race/ethnicity other than White-only, first-generation students, persons with disabilities, and caregivers). Open educational resources are free or low-cost curricular materials developed for a wide range of high enrollment courses that can be adopted in the classroom and available for use on day-one. Use of OER has been correlated to equal or improved learning outcomes compared to traditional textbooks (Open Education Group, n.d.). Additionally, library resources may also support the curriculum at no-cost to students. The library is well-positioned to support faculty and students in finding OER and/or affordable course materials.

I know you work hard to ensure that students have all the materials they need to succeed in their classes, and I’d love to work with you to help do so affordably so no student goes without their needed materials. Together, we could promote a range of no-cost or low-cost options, including open educational resources, library resources, and inclusive access. If we report student savings from all three options to administrators, our collaborative efforts will show a bigger impact and a greater contribution to student success and retention.

If you have ever decided not to buy expensive course materials, you are not alone. Sixty-six percent of Virginia Course Materials Survey (Osterman et al., 2022) respondents indicated  they have not purchased the required textbook at least once in their academic career. Supporting student learning is critical to the work of college libraries. Over the last several years, libraries have been engaged in textbook affordability initiatives to help make education more affordable for students. The library understands that textbook costs and access codes impact your academic success and other needs, and can explore whether low cost/no cost options are available to support your learning. If you feel comfortable speaking with your professors about options and alternatives, they may be interested to hear your perspective. The library may be a partner in supporting access to low/no-cost options. Understanding your needs also helps libraries advocate on your behalf.