LEC - Southeast Missouri State University

Disability Support Services

NAVIGATION

GUIDELINES FOR REQUESTING ALTERNATE FORMAT FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Taped texts and alternate format of text are accommodations for some students with disabilities. Students that require either of these accommodations must have supportive documentation that is provided during the registration process and be approved during the registration process for such accommodations. It can take many weeks to find taped texts, other alternate formats, or to have them created. Students and faculty members should keep this in mind when making requests and submit their requests at the earliest possible date.

DSS staff will do their best to ensure that the appropriate format is provided in a timely manner. To facilitate this, requests must be submitted at least six weeks prior to the date that the material is needed. For textbooks, that means six weeks prior to the start of classes. Requests not submitted at least six weeks prior to the date needed will be processed as they are received, but may not be immediately available. Students have the responsibility of checking with Textbook Rentals and the Bookstore to find out what books are required for each course. Books that are required to be purchased are not noted by Textbook Rentals; those are noted through the Bookstore.

Students with memberships to alternate format book organizations will be required to first make their requests through those organizations. Once a student finds that they are unable to locate the needed material, then students can make a request through DSS. To make a request, students should submit the request form titled: Request for Alternate Format, or students may come by to pick up the form, or call DSS at 573-651-2273 and request that the form be mailed to them.

Students will also need to sign a contract stipulating that the student: 1) has paid for the original version of the text; 2) will not provide a copy of the text for anyone else to use; and 3) that the student will return the alternate material at the end of the semester or else the student will not be able to get additional alternately formatted material from DSS. When the alternate text is available the student may pick it up from the DSS or request that DSS mail it to the student.

Any questions or concerns about this information should be directed to DSS staff at 573-651-2273.