BCIT’s Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) project team was established in December 2025. Since then, we have been working to reduce the financial burden of expensive textbooks by supporting courses that use free learning materials, including Open Educational Resources (OER) and instructor created content. With a diverse team of OER professional and current BCIT students working with Library Services and the Learning and Teaching Centre, we are committed to raising awareness across the institution about the impact and value of the Zero Textbook Cost initiative.
Our Vision
We believe that learning resources should support students’ career goals without creating financial barriers. By encouraging instructors to adopt Zero Textbook Cost course materials, we aim to strengthen BCIT’s hands on, practical approach to education. The place where instructors share their expertise and students can focus on building real world skills rather than worrying about the cost of textbooks.
What We Do
We promote and support Zero Textbook Cost at courses at BCIT by raising awareness of the real cost of textbooks and the impact these costs have on students. We share experiences from faculty members who teach ZTC courses and host events dedicated to increasing awareness of the initiative. By working alongside instructors, staff, and students, we help build a learning environment where cost does not limit opportunity.
Project Team
Ian Linkletter
Open Education Librarian, BCIT Library Services
Ian is the project manager for the BCIT ZTC Initiative. At BCIT he contributes to institutional initiatives through his work on the Educational Technology and Learning Design Committee (Vice-Chair), Accessibility Steering Committee, Universal Design for Learning Subcommittee, Open Education Working Group, and AI Task Force. He is also visiting faculty with Brock University’s Inclusive Education Research Lab. Guided by his conviction that education is a social good, Ian works to expand access, accessibility, inclusion, and innovation across BCIT and beyond.
Mariia Holovchenko
Student Marketing Research Assistant
My name is Mariia, and I am a second-year Marketing Management student at BCIT. As a Student Marketing Research Assistant for the ZTC initiative, I am passionate about making education more affordable.
During my first year alone, I spent $1,000 on textbooks that I can no longer even access. This firsthand experience drives my commitment to helping students through the ZTC program.
Outside of my studies, I enjoy volunteering for Ukrainian community activities, sewing, and hiking.
Josie Zhang
Student Marketing Research Assistant
My name is Josie, and I’m second-year BCIT marketing student. I’m honoured to be a part of this meaningful project and make contributions to open education and accessible learning.
I strongly believe that financial barriers should not limit people’s access to education, and that’s the reason why I am passionate about supporting this project
