How to access alternate text formats
In Student Accessibility Services, we work with Library Accessibility Services (LAS) to provide alternate text formats for students with disabilities. You must register with Student Accessibility Services before you can request alternate text formats.
You must register with Student Accessibility Services to request alternate text formats. Through this process, your program coordinator will work with you to develop an accommodation plan that meets your disability needs. Learn more on the Registration and Appointments page.
Here are some examples of alternate text formats.
- Braille
- Word or PDF documents
- Kurzweil
- Audio files
Your Student Accessibility Services program coordinator can help identify which formats are the best options for you.
- Contact Library Accessibility Services (LAS) by phone or email as soon as possible, as the conversion process can take time to complete.
- Purchase your textbooks and keep your receipts. There’s no extra charge for alternate format material. Textbooks can come from online stores such as Amazon. LAS can convert the digital version of a textbook into alternate formats. Used textbooks may be purchased from a bookstore. LAS can’t accept receipts from other students.
- It’s your responsibility to pick up alternate format texts after LAS contacts you to let you know the content is available.
- Remember, some textbooks can take a while to convert. It’s okay to contact LAS once in a while to check on the status of your alternate text.
Copyright requirements
Alternate format texts follow the same copyright requirements as the original text (i.e., textbook). Visit McMaster’s copyright website to learn more.