Library Initiative for Equitable & Affordable Learning
Empowering Faculty. Supporting Students. Advancing Equity.
The Library Initiative for Equitable and Affordable Learning (LIEAL) helps faculty reduce textbook costs through open and affordable course materials. We aim to support the adoption and creation of affordable, accessible, equitable, inclusive, high-quality learning materials for every Mt. SAC student in every course.
Understanding OER & ZTC
📘 What is OER?
Open Educational Resources (OER) are free teaching and learning materials that anyone can access, use, and share. OER have copyright permissions—usually from a Creative Commons license—that allow instructors to legally retain, reuse, revise, remix, and redistribute the content. This flexibility supports academic freedom and allows materials to be customized to fit specific course or student needs.
🎓 What is ZTC?
ZTC (Zero Textbook Cost) courses use no-cost materials—such as OER, library resources, or publicly available content—provided that all students have free and immediate access to the instructional materials.
For more information on what qualifies as ZTC, visit ZTC FAQs on the Textbook & Instructional Materials Committee website.
🛤️ What are ZTC Pathways?
ZTC pathways allow students to complete degrees or certificates without paying for textbooks using a series of ZTC courses.
View CCC ZTC Pathways Initiative →Reimagine Your Courses
Resources and guidance to help you adopt, adapt, and teach with open materials.
Professional Development & Funding Opportunities
We're here to support your journey in open and affordable teaching with development programs and financial support.
💰 Grants & Funding
Looking for funding to adopt, adapt, or create open or low-cost course materials? Contact us for more information.
📚 Workshops & Webinars
Join sessions on OER adoption, equity-centered design, open pedagogy, and ZTC course development—offered each semester. Check out our website or emails for more information.
🤝 Individual Support
Work with our team for one-on-one help with locating, customizing, or publishing open materials for your courses.
Request a Meeting →🌟 Faculty Recognition
Using OER or ZTC in your classes? Let us know! Be recognized for your work in making education more affordable and equitable.
ZTC in Numbers
Contact the LIEAL Team
Questions? Reach us at lieal@mtsac.edu
Dean, Library, Learning Resources & Distance Learning
📧 rsalinas12@mtsac.edu
📱 (909) 274-5607
