© rob.wall

Earlier this month, over a thousand teachers signed a document in support of more affordable and open source textbooks. Here's what the press release from MakeTextbooksAffordable.com had to say about the statement:

"Open textbooks are complete, reviewed textbooks written by academics that can be used online at no cost and printed for a small cost. What sets them apart from conventional textbooks is their open license, which allows instructors and students flexibility to use, customize and print the textbook. Open textbooks are already used at some of the nation's most prestigious institutions - including Harvard, Caltech and Yale - and the nation's largest institutions - including the california community colleges and the Arizona State University system.

"Open textbooks are comparable, affordable and flexible alternatives to traditional expensive textbooks," said Professor Linda Bisson, Chair of the Enology and Viticulture Department at the University of California, Davis. "Not only do they save students money, but they provide instructors with a high-quality textbook that they can customize to meet their needs."

If these affordable textbook groups are successful, online learners may be able to access all course material for free via the internet. Gone will be the days of the $150 book sitting dusty on the shelf.