UNL Libraries expands access to more affordable course materials for students

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is expanding access to more affordable course materials for students.

The Libraries Course Materials Program started small, but is quickly reshaping how those materials are chosen.

By reviewing each course syllabus and identifying free or low-cost options, the program has helped save students more than $3 million so far.

“We really see this program as a key way for the University Libraries to drive down costs for all students at UNL, increasing access to a university education, as well as contributing to students’ success,” said Liz Lorang, the Dean of the University Libraries.

After completing a pilot survey this semester, 27 more courses now have more affordable textbook options.

The program is designed to ensure every student begins the semester on equal footing.

Lorang said it can make a big difference.

“The key driver for us is we bare the costs of students materials, ideally whenever we can so that the students themselves aren’t paying those costs and then they’re able to pay tuition, buy food, pay rent, all of the other things that are vital to success,” she said.

And she said they hope to broaden the number of students they can reach in the future.

“The big future that we see is every course at UNL runs through Libraries Course Materials so that by default, every faculty member and every student is aware of the lowest cost option for every textbook or material that they need for their course,” she said.