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Library Accessibility Services Alternative Format Textbook Service

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In January 2022, the UX Team explored of the value and effectiveness of the alt-format textbook service for students.

Research Questions

  • Requests for alternative format textbooks may be decreasing. What factors might be contributing to a decline in requests? 
  • How might LAS improve the alt-format service to better serve students?
  • Can we identify new or emerging student needs?

Methods

  • We conducted semi-structured interviews with nine students who had used the alt-format service and five who had not. 

What did we learn?

  • The students we interviewed were self-aware about their studying and learning needs and articulated the ways in which the university is supporting or failing to support them.
  • Some students are not requesting alt-format (or making fewer requests) because:
    • During COVID, instructors provided access to online textbooks
    • Textbooks are not required in some courses and disciplines
    • Cost of textbooks is a big factor. Students are buying only textbooks that are absolutely required
    • Students are finding online versions of textbooks on their own
  • Students are using a variety of technologies (see the final report linked below for a full list)

Recommendations

  • Streamline the alt-format request process
  • Promote LAS services, especially to first year students
  • Explore building stronger connections with Student Accessibility Services

Year of Study

2022

The library is committed to ensuring that members of our user community with disabilities have equal access to our services and resources and that their dignity and independence is always respected. If you encounter a barrier and/or need an alternate format, please fill out our Library Print and Multimedia Alternate-Format Request Form. Contact us if you’d like to provide feedback: lib.a11y@uoguelph.ca