We want to help faculty find no- and low-cost alternatives to high-priced course materials. But NIU Libraries and the Textbook Task Force also purchase some required textbooks based on faculty recommendations. At this time, we will only purchase ebooks available with library-licenses which allow for unlimited users. If your title is only available in print format, your request will be forwarded to your subject specialist librarian for purchase consideration with departmental funds. Because of limited funds, we may not be able to acquire every textbook requested. As a friendly reminder, your librarian is also available to help you identify alternatives to traditional textbooks, including assembling course readings from materials the Libraries already pays for, locating / modifying OERs, etc. Reach out to them anytime.
Please submit your request, using the Textbook Purchase Recommendation Form.
Priority is given to high-priced books or materials which will be used in high-enrollment courses or courses with multiple sections.
Precedence is given to materials that will be utilized for several semesters.
Undergraduate and graduate course materials are eligible.
Texts with single-user codes will not be purchased unless the faculty member notes that materials accessible only with a code will not be used in the course.
Course packs and customized textbooks are not eligible for purchase.
Ebooks with licenses that do not permit unlimited users will not be purchased (note: submit your request and a librarian will check what licenses are available for the title).
Not all materials requested will be purchased; selection is contingent on the available budget.
