Zero and Low Textbook Cost Courses

Affordable, or free, textbooks

At Moreno Valley College, we recognize that the high costs of textbooks serve as a barrier that impacts student success. To address this, MVC labels zero textbook cost (ZTC) and low textbook cost (LTC) courses in the class finder.

Class Finder Bookstore MVC Library

What is ZTC?

ZTC (Zero Textbook Cost) course sections have no textbook-related costs, including access fees, workbooks, or manuals. These sections might use a textbook that is freely available online or through the MVC Library, the textbook might be provided to you free of charge, or a textbook may not be required.

• The textbook is available freely online or through the library, OR
• The textbook is provided to you free of charge, OR
• There are no required textbooks

Your course might still have other (non-textbook fees) related to it, such as class fees, supplies, or printing.

What is LTC?

LTC (Low Textbook Cost) sections are those whose required textbooks can be purchased at the MVC Bookstore for $50 or less, in either physical or electronic format.

Your course might require supplies or have other fees over this $50 amount.

How do I find ZTC and LTC classes?

You can find course sections with zero or low textbook costs by filtering for them in MVC's class finder. When searching the class finder, look for a textbook icon to the right of the course section:

You can also use the "Only show classes with low or zero cost textbooks" filter on the sidebar to limit your results to only these sections. Courses are also flagged as ZTC or LTC in the class schedule, as well as on WebAdvisor.

Where can I find open education textbooks?

Many open educational resources and zero cost textbooks can be found online. Others might be provided to you or be made available through the MVC Library.

Check your course syllabus or Canvas shell for links to these resources, or for more information. Your instructor will also be able to provide more information on each title and on how you can go about accessing it.

Can I also get a printed copy of the textbook?

Printed versions of some online resources may be available to be checked out through the library or purchased through the bookstore.