Textbooks

Choose an accessible textbook for your course.

Selecting an accessible textbook is a critical step in ensuring that all students have equitable access to course materials. The support staff at UND, including the Student Disability Resources Office and TTaDA, are committed to assisting faculty and staff in making informed textbook choices. This checklist is designed to guide the selection of textbooks that meet accessibility standards and support inclusive learning environments.

Select a Textbook Available in an E-Text Format

When selecting a textbook, ensure that an electronic (e-Text) version is available. E-texts allow individuals using assistive technology to access content in multiple ways (i.e., text-to-speech software and screen reader use). Once you have selected a textbook, check to see if the e-Text format is available on any of the following platforms: 

1. Amazon — Offers a wide selection of electronic and audio-books in various formats for purchase.
2. VitalSource — Online retailer that carries electronic textbooks and supplemental materials, such as study guides, for certain textbooks.
3. Bookshare — A free service for qualified students that offers accessible books in multiple formats.
4. National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) — A free library service that provides accessible reading materials for individuals with visual or physical disabilities.
5. Learning Ally — Offers audiobooks and other accessible materials for students with reading barriers, including dyslexia and visual impairments.

Familiarize Yourself with Features in the E-Text

If an e-Text is available through one of these sources, it is important to review and understand the accessibility features it offers. Key features include:

• Built-in screen readers or assistive technology tools (text-to-speech, “click-to-listen," etc.)
• Alternative formats (audio, large print, and/or braille-ready files)
• Additional reading tools (immersive readers or reading overlays)
• Supplemental materials (study guides, practice quizzes, exams)
• PDF access to the textbook (available upon request for students requiring specific formats)

Test the Assistive Technology

If the e-Text includes a built-in screen reader or other assistive technologies, it is important to evaluate how well they function. Consider the following checks:

• Simple Images: Verify that images include alt-text and that the screen reader reads it aloud correctly.
• Complex Images: For graphs, charts, or diagrams, confirm that alt-text is provided AND that the textbook describes what's in the image.
• Video Content: Ensure that videos include captions, and check the captions for accuracy.
• Reading Order: Test a section of the textbook with mixed content (text, images, tables, etc.) to confirm the screen reader follows the correct reading order.
• Interactive Elements: Check whether the screen reader can access and correctly interpret interactive features such as quizzes, flashcards, or drag-and-drop activities.
• Keyboard Navigation: Confirm that the textbook is fully navigable using only a keyboard.