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Faculty Guide to Textbooks & Digital Course Materials

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Textbook Adoption FAQs

The Essentials

What is textbook adoption?

Textbook adoption is the process of defining which textbook you are using for your classes within the online bookstore.  This allows students to search for their textbooks (whether required or optional) in the online bookstore by course number.  it also ensures that the bookstore has the appropriate inventory to support your students.

What are the official textbook adoption deadlines?

  • Fall: April 15th
  • Spring: October 15th
  • Summer: March 15th

Can I adopt textbooks after the deadline?

Yes.  However, adopting on time ensures that there are enough copies of your textbook in stock when students start ordering.

How do I adopt a textbook?

eFollett provides an online adoption tool.  You will need to create an account the first time you use it.  See "Adoption Step-by-Step" posted on this guide.

Do I have to adopt textbooks every semester?

Yes, even if you are using the same book you must adopt it again.  The online process allows you to reuse previously adopted texts.

I'm adjunct faculty - do I have to adopt my textbooks?

Check with your core/department chair or search the eFollett bookstore for your course and section.  Chairs often adopt textbooks for courses ahead of time if the instructor has not been determined yet. For additional help, contact the Academic Affairs Office (ext 5028)

Can a course with no instructor assigned have a textbook adopted?

Yes, typically this is done by a core/department chair ahead of time.  

eTextbooks During Covid-19 Pandemic

Free eTextbook Access has expired for most publishers supporting online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Learn more about Textbook Affordability.

How to Adopt a Textbook