Get OpenStax Through Inclusive Access Programs
OpenStax textbooks and Assignable courseware are available through inclusive access (bookstore purchasing) programs. This article explains which bookstore partners support OpenStax, how instructors can adopt materials using ISBNs, how students access content through their LMS, and how opt-out works.
Prefer a downloadable version? See the Inclusive Access Guidelines and Instructions (PDF).
Which Programs and Bookstores Support OpenStax?
OpenStax materials are available through inclusive access programs powered by VitalSource. You can find OpenStax textbooks and courseware through the following bookstore partners:
- Barnes & Noble College
- Akademos
- eCampus
- Campus stores affiliated with the National Association of College Stores (NACS)
- Independent College Bookstore Association (ICBA) member stores
We plan to expand availability to additional bookstore companies, including Follett, in 2026.
If you’re unsure whether your campus bookstore works with VitalSource, please contact your campus retailer directly.
How to Use OpenStax Within Inclusive Access Programs
To adopt OpenStax through an inclusive access program, follow your institution’s or bookstore’s standard process for selecting and listing course materials.
Each OpenStax textbook has one or more ISBNs, which are required for bookstore adoption. To find them:
- Visit openstax.org/subjects
- Select your textbook
- Scroll to the bottom of the book’s page
- Locate the list of available ISBNs
Use the appropriate ISBN when submitting course materials through your bookstore or institutional system. The screenshot below provides an example from OpenStax College Success.
How Do Students Access OpenStax Materials?
In most cases, students access their OpenStax materials directly through their learning management system (LMS), such as:
- Blackboard
- Brightspace by D2L
- Canvas
- Moodle
- Schoology
Once the instructor opens the course, students have full access to their digital course materials. First-time users may be prompted to create an account.
Students should ensure pop-up blockers are disabled in their browsers to avoid access issues.
Can Students Opt Out?
Yes. Inclusive access programs allow students to opt out before a stated deadline. Opt-out instructions are typically provided by the bookstore or institution.
If a student opts out, they are still responsible for obtaining required course materials through another method.
Barnes & Noble College Opt-Out
For Barnes & Noble College programs, students can submit opt-out requests using the Opt-Out tool available through the Course Materials link in the First Day™ course within the LMS. Opt-out requests must be submitted before the posted deadline.