The University of Michigan eTextbook Initiative was launched in fall 2011 to moderate the upward trend in textbook costs we have seen over the past several years; and to develop a flexible system that combines traditional texts with new dynamic tools, enabling faculty to draw content from multiple sources to create a richer learning environment.

The University Library, ITS, Academic Affairs, and schools and colleges are collaborating in the initiative, as well as faculty and students serving in an advisory role.   The eTextbook landscape is complex, student expectations are evolving rapidly, and no single product/solution will meet all, or even most, needs. In phase one of the project, the team is focusing on two main models for textbooks, wholesale and open content. In the wholesale model, the etextbook is available students via their course, with the content costs covered by a fee in lieu of individual textbook purchase.  In the open model, faculty create and utilize open publishing resources.

For more information, contact Marketing & Communications at MLibrary.marketing@umich.edu, or 734 764-6338.