Student Assembly

Dear President Skorton,

I would like to formally communicate Student Assembly Resolution 46, “In Favor of an Inclusive Book Policy,” sponsored by S.A. Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion Ulysses Smith and Freshmen Representative Ian Harris. The resolution passed unanimously last week.

The resolution is a recommendation from the S.A. to the Faculty Senate and advises faculty on ways to help minimize the cost of books for students. The resolution calls for the addition and enforcement of a section in the Faculty Handbook that will ask faculty to implement measures that would give students options to cut down textbook costs. For example, faculty should indicate on their syllabus whether or not an older edition of a textbook can be used in class.

In addition, the resolution calls for an Inclusive Book Policy section, that aims to provide free access to various course readings for students, particularly for those who would otherwise be unable to afford to purchase books. For each book that faculty members require for a course, there must be at least one copy made available via the course reserve system in University libraries. Additionally, this section advises faculty to consider using an Open Textbook for their course. This publishing method allows students to access course materials online for free or to buy books for a reduced price. Many of the library administrators supported these measures, noting that the course reserve system is currently in place but under-utilized. The SA recommends that this policy be funded in part by the Toward New Destinations Annual Initiatives Grant, the University Library, additional grants, individual colleges, departments, and programs. The S.A. believes that the Inclusive Book Policy should be referenced in all course syllabi and in the Cornell Store’s book list email sent to each student.

These measures will benefit students by furthering Cornell’s commitment to inclusion and will keep the institution leading amongst out peers when addressing diversity and inclusion. The Student Assembly believed that advocating for the Inclusive Book Policy will promote more active academic inclusion of the various members of our community. The content of the Inclusive Book Policy will allow the faculty to have a better understanding of the ways they can help minimize the cost of books for students.

I have attached Resolution 46 and its appendix for reference. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Best,
Adam