eCampusOntario's Online Open Textbook Library

TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2017 /CNW/ - eCampusOntario, a not-for-profit organization that supports online and technology-enabled education, is celebrating the success of its Open Textbook Library.

The online library aims to put money back into the pockets of Ontario learners who are affected by the rising costs of course materials. It provides Open Educational Resources (OER) in the form of textbooks to Ontarians who want to easily locate a research material, fulfill a required reading, or pursue a personal interest.

The current library collection has amassed over 200 textbooks and anyone from across the province can view and download the open materials for free. The Open Library addresses two key barriers to education: access and affordability, and since the library's soft launch in May, more than 2,700 learners have saved over $307,000.

Educators also benefit, they can use the Open Textbook Library to efficiently locate course materials or publish their own Open Textbooks under a Creative Commons license. In addition, the library's existing resources can be adapted by faculty members to suit the unique needs of every syllabi and lesson plan.

New Marketing Campaign

A commercial promoting the Open Textbook Library, aptly titled Pandora's Box, will be released at participating Ontario Cineplex theatres throughout Ontario beginning September 22^nd. The campaign will be accompanied by a print, radio, and digital components, all of reinforce the benefits of the Open Textbook Library.

To learn more about the Open Textbook Library, visit eCampusOntario.ca.

About eCampusOntario

eCampusOntario is a not-for-profit organization whose membership is composed of all publicly funded colleges and universities in Ontario. Its mandate is to promote access, collaboration, and innovation in online and technology-enabled learning to enhance student experience, support faculty development, and extend Ontario's global reputation as a leader in technology-based teaching and learning. Funding for eCampusOntario comes from the Government of Ontario.

SOURCE eCampusOntario