Alternative Textbook Model - UMass Amherst Library
abernard102@gmail.com 2015-02-28
Summary:
"A report released by MASSPIRG shows that open textbooks – an alternative to the traditional textbook – have the potential to save students more than a billion dollars each year in textbook costs.
Over the past few decades, college textbook prices have increased 812%—more than three times the rate of inflation. The College Board suggests students budget more than $1,200 for textbooks and supplies each year. 'Understanding that the high cost of commercial textbooks (print and electronic) is a major concern for both students and their parents, the Office of the Provost and the University Libraries have joined together to support faculty interested in providing their students with a less costly yet educationally rewarding alternative to expensive commercial textbooks,' says Jay Schafer, Director of UMass Amherst Libraries.
The increase in used textbook markets, rental programs, and e-textbooks has saved students some money up front, but the price of these options is determined by the ever-increasing cost of a new print edition – meaning they will never be enough to solve the problem ..."