IT Accessibility

Alternative Text Format

The Process

Alternative Text Format is an accommodation through the MU’s Disability Center that guarantees accessible course materials (textbooks, articles, documents, etc.). The software that is used for the Alternative Text Format is Kurzweil 3000.

How to Request Textbooks

  1. The Disability Center provides detailed instructions on Alternative Text.
  2. Log into MyAccess to request textbooks.

Need help? Watch Requesting Alternative Textbook Format or email Jay Ellis at jellisjones@missouri.edu in the Disability Center.

How to Download Digital Textbooks

An email will be sent to you when your Alternative Text Format folder has been activated.

  1. Go to the Alternative Texts application.
  2. Log in with your MU (pawprint) username and password.
  3. Find your book title and click on the book folder.
  4. Download the chapter.

Need help? Email Jennifer Thornhill at thornhillj@missouri.edu in the IT Accessibility Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When should I start requesting my books?
A. As soon as your professor assigns the book.

Q. How long does it take to get my books in digital format?
A. Once the IT Accessibility Center receives the textbook, it can be 30 minutes to few days.

Q. Why are only some of my books posted?
A. Books are posted as they are completed. Check your MyAccess portal for the status on your textbooks.

Q. What format are my books in?
A. Your books will be in the .KES (Kurzweil) format.

Q. What if my online book has missing pages?
A. Email the IT Accessibility Center at itaccessibilitycenter@missouri.edu or call (573) 884-2600 as soon as possible to get this error corrected.

Q. Can I download all the chapters?
A. You can download all chapters, one at a time.

Q. How do I read aloud my materials on the web?
A. Kurzweil offers Read the Web has an extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.