How do I know what materials are needed for a course?
You can locate information on your required textbooks in My Gateway, click on the Registration & Schedule card and Class Schedule. Click on each course to see the Class Selection Details then scroll to the bottom to view Bookstore Information. Here, you'll find information about your required course materials like a traditional textbook, open educational resource or digital access e-book.
Courses with Digital Access will have “DA-Digital Access” listed at the top of the Course Materials page for the class and the “book notes” will note Equitable Access. Courses with only a traditional textbook available will have the textbook title, price and information listed on the Course Materials page for the class.
What does Digital Access mean?
Digital Access gives you automatic access to your required course materials online—right through your class in Brightspace. Instead of buying a traditional textbook, your book is included in digital format, so you're ready to learn on day one.
What will my digital textbook look like?
It looks like a regular book on your screen. You can read, highlight, search and take notes directly in the e-book. You can access it from your laptop, tablet or phone, and you can even download it for offline reading during the semester.
Why should I use Digital Access?
You get instant access to your materials, it's affordable—digital books are offered at a lower price than most print versions—and it’s convenient.
Where can I find the cost of Digital Access?
You can see the per course cost for Digital Access on Gateway’s Tuition and Fees website.
How do I access the book via Digital Access, and for how long do I have access?
You'll access your textbook through your Brightspace course link—no separate purchase required. You'll have access for the entire length of your course, and some books may remain available for a short time after the class ends.
Will the bookstore still sell a traditional book for my class?
Yes, the bookstore may offer it as an optional purchase. Just stop into the bookstore to find out what textbook is needed. However, Digital Access ensures you already have what you need for your course, so you don't have to buy anything extra unless you prefer a physical copy.
Who can help if I have difficulty accessing digital class materials?
Start by checking your Brightspace course for the Digital Access link. If you still need help, contact Gateway Bookstore Support at CampusStore.GTC@BibliU.com or the IT Help Desk at helpdesk@gtc.edu. You can also find answers to many questions using Bibliu's Online Support.
How does Digital Access work with Veterans Education Benefits?
Veterans education benefits vary by chapter and impact how Digital Access is covered:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)
- Chapter 33 benefits only cover tuition and mandatory fees.
- Digital Access is considered a textbook, not a tuition or fee, and cannot be certified to the VA under Chapter 33.
- The Digital Access charge will remain on the student’s Gateway account and must be paid by the student.
- Students may use their Book & Supplies Stipend to cover this cost or may choose to purchase books and supplies directly from the bookstore instead.
- Payment to Gateway does not happen automatically. Students are responsible for paying any remaining Digital Access balance on their account.
- Veteran Readiness & Employment (Chapter 31)
- Chapter 31 benefits do cover books and supplies.
- Digital Access will be billed as a book charge and submitted for payment under Chapter 31 authorization.
- Students approved under Chapter 31 do not need to take additional action as long as their authorization is on file.
Important: Students who do not wish to participate in Digital Access must opt out by their first add/drop deadline for the semester.