Two students and a professor are discussing reducing textbook costs through digital resources. Nathan (Student) Textbooks are becoming ridiculously expensive. I honestly prefer digital versions they're cheaper, sometimes free, and way more accessible. If the university pushed for a proper elibrary or supported open access resources, most of us wouldn't have to spend hundreds each term. Lily (Student) I agree digital's affordable, but staring at a screen for hours really strains my eyes. It's not just me plenty of students complain about headaches and fatigue. I'm all for saving money, but we can't ignore how it affects our health and study habits. Prof Taylor (Professor) Thats a fair concern, Lily. I also have to mention that switching to digital isn't as simple as uploading PDFs. We run into licensing hurdles with many publishers, and negotiating those terms can take months. Open access grants help, but they're not always available for every course. Nathan (Student) That's why the university should invest in an e library platform that centralises access. And maybe provide loaner devices for students who don't have reliable tech. It's not perfect, but at least it would reduce the upfront burden for everyone. Lily (Student) If we do that, we should also run a student health survey. Something to track how screen based studying impacts wellbeing eye strain, sleep disruption, all of it. It'll help us figure out how to balance savings with sustainability in the long term. Prof Taylor (Professor) Good idea. And I'd be happy to explore publisher negotiations for the core readings in my course. Some are already considering flexible licensing models, especially if the institution demonstrates a clear access and equity plan. That might help us scale later. Nathan (Student) Maybe we pilot this for one semester. Choose a few courses that can adopt open access materials and gather feedback on cost savings, usage rates, and health impacts. If it works, we'll have a solid case to expand the program. Lily (Student) We could even include optional print on demand copies at a reduced rate, for students who want a physical version. That way, no one's forced into just one format. Choice makes all the difference. Prof. Taylor (Professor) Agreed. So let's move forward with a semester long pilot using open access textbooks, track student health outcomes through surveys, and report back before course planning begins for next term.I'll begin reviewing content and licensing options this week. Let's make it both affordable and student friendly.