Reserves

Reserve information and deadlines

The University of Calgary Library purchases materials to support the research and learning interests of the University. This is typically material that supplements the learning experience-taking place in the classroom and not basic curriculum materials.

What is a textbook? A textbook is a book specifically intended for work in a classroom environment: An edition of a book specifically intended for use of students who are enrolled in a course of study or preparing for an examination on a subject or in an academic discipline…sometimes published in conjunction with a workbook, casebooks, lab manual, and/or teacher’s manual.¹

The University of Calgary Libraries no longer purchases copies of textbooks.

• Textbooks are meant for individual purchase and use by students. Print books on reserve are increasingly not well used by students and use is low for many books
• One copy will generally not suffice for an entire class and buying multiple copies for all classes is not feasible
• Textbook publishers do not make eBook versions available to libraries at reasonable prices and frequently allow only one user at a time, along with other digital management controls

Faculty might consider using open educational resources (OERs). OERs are typically made available through open licenses at no cost to students. To find existing OERs or get more information about adapting or creating OERs, consult with your Subject Librarian or use the Open Educational Resources guide. Librarians can assist in exploring other options for learning support material.

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¹ Online Dictionary for Library and Information Science by Joan M. Reitz, Libraries Unlimited (last updated November 19, 2007).

Learning materials costs to students

Academic staff invest considerable efforts in recommending high-quality learning resources that are closely aligned with the learning outcomes for each course. However, the cost of learning materials has become a concern. This memo highlights resources available through Libraries and Cultural Resources, the Copyright Office, Bound and Copied and the Bookstore that can assist in alleviating some of the high costs for learning materials.

Learn more about materials costs for students

Deadlines

Place requests at least four weeks before required by students to ensure clearance and processing of materials is complete on time. Request new purchases as soon as possible: new purchases and license negotiations vary from two to eight weeks.

Other resource links

• Copyright
• Reading List Tool Guide
• Contact Copyright for access to the old request form if needed
• For submission questions, please email Collections