eTextbooks for Students (Summer 2025)

For the 2025 Summer semester, UVic Libraries’ eTextbooks program saved students a whopping $92,199.84, beating lasts summer’s savings by $29,596.74!

This is a continuation of the UVic Libraries’ eTextbooks for students project, started in fall 2021, to track the use of library licensed electronic books assigned in courses for the fall 2024 academic term. The project provides a list of electronic versions of course textbooks that are available to students through the library and supports access and affordability efforts that are important to student success. 

This project complements the Libraries’ advocacy efforts and aligns with its Strategic Directions. With this project, we have the opportunity to scan the university landscape to determine the extent to which the Libraries’ licensed resources are being used at all levels of course work. The Libraries’ expanded eBook collection allows instructors to assign quality course materials, while providing affordable solutions for students. 

These solutions improve students’ access to affordable education and are closely aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #4, “Quality Education”, which is aimed at ensuring “inclusive and equitable quality education and [promoting] lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

This brings our total savings since we started tracking in the fall of 2022 to $2,228,368.11!

Big News: Starting Fall 2025, we’re expanding the Zero-Cost program to include physical textbooks! So when you check out the list next semester, make sure to check the library Reserves shelf as well!

CALL TO ACTION:

FACULTY: Let us know if you are using an open textbook or UVic Libraries licensed resources for your course this academic year!

STUDENTS: Let us know if you are accessing an open textbook or library licensed resources for your course!

Photo by Melike Baran