Overview

Alternate formats for course text materials can be provided, when available, from the publisher for individuals with print based disabilities who qualify for this accommodation. Alternate format course materials include:

• Audio (e.g. Bookshare, a national, non-profit organization that provides the largest collection of audio textbooks and literature).
• Electronic format such as Microsoft Word or PDF version
• Braille (12 week advance notice requested)
• Large print
• Handouts in digital format (Microsoft word or PDF)
• Digital material in handouts/printed form

When the ODS provides students with texts in electronic format, we also install a text-to-speech program on your computer, Read & Write.

 Tips for Using this Accommodation

• Submit your alternate text format requests early (see Alternate Format Request Procedure below for detailed instruction).
• Locating and/or reformatting electronic files can take up to 12 weeks. Once you receive your schedule, collect a list of your required reading.
• If you cannot locate the required reading contact the instructor or department.
• You may need to self-identify and explain why you need the information. If you do not receive a timely reply please contact .
• Become experienced in locating alternate text formats on your own. Disability Services encourages students to be aware of purchasing/renting options for ETexts.
• Learn to use a variety of formats and text-to-speech options. Many computers, tablets, e-readers and Smartphones have text-to-speech abilities included. Learn what options are available to you and how to use them.  YouTube is a good source for video tutorials on a variety of devices.

Questions, concerns or requests for additional information should be directed to the Office of Disability Services, 413-775-1332.

Alternate Format Request Procedure

Eligible students who make a request for alternate formatted textbooks/electronic textbooks must provide specific course and textbook information to the Office of Disability Services (ODS) every semester by completing the Alternate Format Textbook Request Form and returning it to the ODS as soon as possible after registering for classes.  You may not need every textbook in an alternate format, and for some courses it may not be available or necessary, such as for math courses.   Please list on the form only the textbooks that you are certain you will need.  Please consult with the ODS if you have any questions or concerns when completing the form.

Once you’ve registered for courses and have a schedule, you can find your textbook information through GCC’s website as follows:

1. Log into MyGCC

2. Click on “My classes & schedule”

3. Click on “Printable schedule”

4. Scroll down and click the “Purchase Books at Bookstore” button on the lower left side of the page.  The bookstore web page will open in a new tab.

5. Click on the “+” on the right for details about each book.

Complete the Alternate Format Textbook Request Form and return the form to the ODS.

Please note:  on the form beneath your contact information is the question “What type of media do you need your e-textbooks put on?”  Select “Flash drive” if your computer doesn’t have a CD drive or if you would prefer to receive your book(s) on a flash drive (the environmentally conscious choice!).  Please then include your flash drive with your Alternate Format Textbook Request Form.

Upon receipt of your Textbook Request Form, the ODS will request an electronic version of your text(s).  Generally, we obtain the electronic version within a week or two.  On rare occasions, turn-around time may take several weeks.

As soon as the ODS has your e-text(s), we will email you at your GCC email address to let you know that it is available for you to pick up in the Wellness Center (C423).

 Please be sure to check your GCC email regularly.

Students requesting alternate textbook versions for the first time must also read, sign and date the Alternate Format Textbook Agreement Form prior to receiving electronic/alternate versions of textbooks.  The Agreement Form only needs to be completed once and will remain on file in the ODS.  The Request Form must be completed every semester.

Alt Format Text Request Form