Open Educational Resources

The Open Textbook Library includes open educational resources that have been funded, published, and licensed to be freely used, adapted, and distributed. These books (e.g., E-books, digital books, etc.), have been reviewed by faculty from a variety of colleges and universities to assess their quality and they can be downloaded at no cost.

  • The library currently includes 668 textbooks, with more being added on a regular basis.
  • The Open Textbook Library is supported by the Center for Open Education and the Open Textbook Network.

Below, is a sample of textbooks offered in a range of topics related to food agriculture, natural resources and human (FANH) sciences.

Cover of "A Guide to the Principles of Animal Nutrition," 1st Edition, by Gita Cherian.

A Guide to the Principles of Animal Nutrition

Based on 20 years of teaching experience, this study guide covers fundamental animal nutrition principles. It explores nutrients, digestion, metabolism, bioenergetics, and feed additives, with key terms, review questions, and illustrations. Ideal for students in animal sciences and veterinary medicine.

Book cover featuring a pineapple and a fish, titled "Food Studies: Matter, Meaning, Movement.

Food Studies: Matter, Meaning, Movement

Food Studies explores food culture, systems, and their complex human connections. Covering topics from sovereignty to fair trade, it integrates art, poetry, and multimedia for deeper reflection. Designed for learners and educators, it encourages critical engagement with food and its broader impact.

QR code linked to "Environmental Toxicology," an open online textbook.

Environmental Toxicology

This open textbook on Environmental Toxicology covers environmental chemistry, ecotoxicology, toxicology, and risk assessment. It integrates past insights with modern approaches, featuring modular chapters, multimedia elements, and self-study tools to enhance learning and understanding.

Silhouette of a person holding objects with text about general, organic, and biological chemistry.

The Basics of General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

The Basics of General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry is a concise, 20-chapter textbook designed for a one-semester GOB course. Written by three expert chemists, it focuses on essential concepts with in-text examples, self-check questions, and structured exercises to support student learning.

Cover of "Genetics, Agriculture, and Biotechnology" by Walter Suza and Donald Lee, featuring a colorful pattern made of various grains, emphasizing the connection between genetics and agricultural practices.

Genetics, Agriculture, and Biotechnology

This textbook provides an introduction to plant genetics and biotechnology for the advancement of agriculture. A clear and structured introduction to the topic for learners new to the field of genetics, the book includes: an introduction to the life cycle of the cell, DNA and how it relates to genes and chromosomes, DNA analysis, recombinant DNA, biotechnology, and transmission genetics.

Book cover featuring silhouettes of people against a sunset, titled "Parenting and Family Diversity Issues" by Diana L.…

Parenting and Family Diversity Issues

This book is designed for students and professionals working with children and families. It explores factors influencing child development, covering parenting, caregiving, and education from historical, theoretical, and practical perspectives across various settings and life stages.