EDUCATIONAL ACCESS SERVICES
(DIVISION OF ADVISING & ACADEMIC SERVICES)

Remember
Students must initiate a request for accommodations by contacting the EAS office prior to the start of classes. A new request must be made each semester.

To order textbooks in alternate formats or for more information, contact Nancy Conklin at 248-1826, or naconkli@mesastate.edu.

EAS provides textbooks in alternate formats to qualified students. To qualify, a student must:
1. show documentation of a specific print disability;
2. be enrolled in the class for which the textbook is needed; and
3. have purchased a print copy of the textbook.

Students should request texts in alternate formats at least six weeks before the start of the semester to ensure obtaining texts in time. Later requests may not be ready at the beginning of the semester. All tapes and CDs must be returned before the end of finals week.

Taped Texts
Students are encouraged to obtain an individual membership to Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB & D). RFB & D is a nonprofit organization which has a number of textbooks on 4-track tape and specialized format audio CDs. You will need a 4-track tape player for the tapes or specialized software or digital player to listen to the CDs. Individual memberships are $100 for the first year, $35/year afterwards, to check out an unlimited number of books. Colorado Talking Books Library offers free membership to individuals with print disabilities. They provide 4-track tape players on long-term loan. Membership is free.

Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB & D)
Colorado Talking Books Library

Electronic texts
EAS can provide textbooks in electronic formats for most books.  Additionally EAS has a number of older books on cassette tape for loan to students.  Books are usually provided to the student in MS Word format, PDF, or DAISY format.  The student will need to use text-to-speech, screen-magnification, or screenreading software to read the text.  EAS staff can assist students in obtaining appropriate adaptive software for reading electronic texts.

If you have any questions or problems with this accommodation, contact Tom Whalen at 248-1801 or twhalen@mesastate.edu.

Braille textbooks
Braille is preferred format for some students taking foreign languages, math, and other technical subjects. Because of the length of time needed to have books Brailled, students should speak with Nancy Conklin about obtaining the texts at least six months in advance.
Braille handouts and tactile diagrams.

EAS is able to create Braille handouts and tests, including tactile diagrams from electronic files and hard copies. We need a lead time of 24 hours to 5 days, depending upon the complexity and number of pages.

updated 01/31/07

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