Alternate Format

Some students with disabilities may find it challenging to read their textbooks, handouts or class notes. In these situations, students may benefit from alternate format materials – changing printed texts into a format that works better for their needs.

Alternate or accessible formats may include:

• Electronic text (Word document/PDF document)
• Audio (MP3 format)
• Braille
• Large Print

If you are approved for alternate format materials, it is important to talk to CSS and request your books well before the semester starts. Please do not wait for the first day of class as it can take up to one month to receive your books. If you do not know which books you will be using, you may want to talk to your department or coordinator to request your book list early.

The Canadian Copyright Act requires that students have a diagnosed print disability in order to access alternate format materials. If you require materials in an alternate format, you must have a diagnosed disability that limits your ability to read printed, text materials. You must also meet with CSS at least one month in advance of your first day of class to discuss your disability and determine which type of alternate format may work best for you.

The Canadian Copyright Act also states that students receiving alternate format materials must purchase a copy of the print textbook. CSS recognizes that it may be difficult or impossible to purchase your textbooks early - we will still request files from the publisher on your behalf BEFORE you purchase the textbooks. However, we WILL NOT release any texts to you without proof of book purchase (either a copy of the textbook or a receipt from the bookstore.)

For more information about alternate format materials, or to request your textbooks in alternate format, please visit us in Room N344 to make an appointment.