Q. Does Rod Library have course textbooks?

Generally, the library does not purchase textbooks, particularly new textbooks or the most recent editions. Please see UNI Bookstore for textbook information.

Finding Textbooks Tips 

See tips for finding affordable textbook options at: https://guides.lib.uni.edu/oer/students

Textbook Equity

Textbook equity is a concern nationally and at UNI, with students most adversely impacted being those who are BIPOC, LGBTQ+, first-generation, international, and/or part-time students. Rod Library coordinates a campuswide textbook equity initiative, assisting instructors in identifying and choosing free/affordable course materials, including Open Educational Resources (OER), which are free in at least one form and licensed for reuse/customization. The initiative has saved UNI students more than $1.5 million to date.

UNI is a member of the Open Education Network (OEN) which offers free, openly-licensed textbooks. Rod Library also supports faculty who want to create and share free, openly-licensed resources for their courses.

Information for Instructors

Instructors are encouraged to use Course Reserves if the library has a copy of a required or recommended text (instructors can also provide a copy). If you would like help transitioning a course to free/affordable materials or have any questions, please request a Course Materials Affordability Review or contact us. 

Contact your liaison librarian before requiring or recommending a library ebook for a course to determine the level of access because some ebooks limit to one user at a time. Ebooks occasionally expire as well, often due to publisher limitations and rights issues.