Reading List Policy

This policy provides a framework for the provision of reading list resources for students.

1. Overview and purpose

1.1.  The University uses an online reading list system, enabling academics to create reading lists within their Canvas module sites and the Library to resource the lists appropriately.

1.2.  This policy prioritises digital provision to ensure the greatest possible availability and accessibility of resources for students.

1.3.  This policy acknowledges that there are budgetary constraints and therefore seeks to take an equitable approach to the provision of resources via the reading lists.

1.4.  The approach to reading lists outlined in this policy supports the University’s aim to deliver inclusive education for all students and a consistent student experience.

2.Scope

2.1.  The policy applies to all foundation, undergraduate and taught postgraduate University of Sussex modules. There will be some exceptions whereby particular modules do not require a reading list such as fieldwork or placements.

3. Responsibilities

3.1.  The Library

3.1.1.     The Library will review reading lists when requested by academic staff.

3.1.2.     Guidance and training will be offered to support academic staff with the creation and editing of reading lists.

3.1.3.     The Library supports taking a decolonial approach to the creation of reading lists and can provide advice on how to achieve this.

3.1.4.     The Library will keep the online guide up to date to enable easy access to support: https://guides.lib.sussex.ac.uk/online-reading-lists

3.1.5.     Library staff will use their expertise to determine the most appropriate access and purchasing models for acquiring resources.

3.1.6.     The Library will provide resources in digital format where available, affordable and with an appropriate licence.

3.1.7.     Library staff will advise on digitisation of chapters for inclusion within reading lists and in line with the University’s Copyright licence.

3.1.8.     Where possible, the Library will source audio and video material via online access/streaming, rather than purchasing physical copies.

3.1.9.     Library staff will negotiate with publishers and other providers to ensure value for money for the University.

3.2.  Academic Staff

3.2.1.     Academic Staff will engage with Library Staff at an early stage, to ensure that they create (or update) their module reading lists in time for the start of each term.

3.2.2.     Academic Staff will ensure that all items on reading lists are designated an indication of their importance (Essential or Further Reading) to enable the efficient purchase of material.

3.2.3.     For Essential Reading, Academic Staff will select resources that can be made available digitally.

3.2.4.     Where Library Staff have advised that a particular resource is unavailable or prohibitively expensive, Academic staff will consider an alternative source.

3.2.5.     Academic Staff will structure their reading lists in line with best practice and School Canvas templates.

4. Policy

4.1.  The Library aims to supply all items suggested on reading lists, but will prioritise Essential Reading.

4.2.  The Library will attempt to make available all Essential Reading in digital format.

4.2.1.    Where no digital option is available for items marked as Essential, the Library will contact the module convenor to discuss alternatives.

4.2.2.    Where no digital option is available for items marked as Further Reading, the Library will purchase one print copy.

4.3.  The Library will not review bibliographies unless specifically requested.

4.4.  If required and where covered by our CLA licence, the Library will digitise one chapter or 10% of a book, with the possibility to pay for a second extract, if cost effective.

5. Exceptions

5.1.  The Library would not normally expect to create reading lists for Academic Staff. The Library’s usual approach would be to work with Schools to deliver training (group sessions  or 1-2-1 support if more appropriate).

5.2.  The Library could be asked in exceptional circumstances to create a list for a member of Academic Staff.  

6. Good practice

6.1.  There will be variations between disciplines in the length, format and content of reading lists. However, the Library advises that good practice would be not to exceed 150 items on a list and to use the list to focus on Essential Reading rather than creating an extensive bibliography. If required, these can be created separately but would not normally be reviewed by the Library.

6.2.  Make it clear where specific chapters are being listed for Essential Reading.

6.3.  To ensure a consistent student experience, consider structuring reading lists with a weekly format, linked to the module structure within Canvas.

6.4.  Do not upload scanned documents to Reading lists as these are unlikely to be accessible and may breach our copyright licence.