Printed Materials in Alternative Formats
(Braille, electronic text, large print)

Students who are blind, low vision or have various types of learning disabilities may require that their reading materials be available in alternative formats, such as electronic text (e-text), Braille, large print or on tape.
Students are encouraged to request their textbooks in alternative formats as early as possible, often at the time of pre-registration. Requests are generally made through Disability Resources although some students research the availability of materials on their own. Ordering and converting printed materials, especially course textbooks, to alternative formats is a lengthy process.

There are several things that you, as an instructor, can do to help assure the availability of printed materials in alternative formats:

• Select and order your books early. When ordering books from publishers, ask if their textbooks are available in alternative formats. Some instructors will only order books from publishers who make alternative format textbooks available.
• Prepare a course syllabus that includes dates and pages for required readings on or before the first day of class.
• Assist the student and Disability Resources in locating materials for conversion to alternative formats should the need arise. If you have a desk copy of the course textbook you would be willing to lend for taping or scanning, it will facilitate the conversion process.

In addition to textbooks, Disability Resources also converts syllabi, class handouts and exams to alternative formats.  You may be contacted for copies of these materials early in the semester.