Examination Copies of Textbooks
To describe the appropriate protocol for receipt, handling, and disposal of free examination copies of textbooks and other materials.
All instructional staff.
The Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission opined that faculty may accept examination copies of textbooks valued at $40 or more “on behalf of the state and have them become state property.”
Thus, if you receive free books from publishers you may retain and use them as state property.
The ethics opinion makes clear that you become a custodian of state property rather than the owner of the book. Such books may not be sold or given away, as doing so would constitute selling or giving away state property.
Unless the book is valued at more than $500, there is no requirement that it be entered into the inventory of state property.
Upon leaving the employ of the State of Kansas, examination copies should be disposed of by placing them in boxes labeled, “Deliver to Collection Development, Watson Library.” Library staff will retain the books for the collection or dispose of them through an accepted method.
Policy Office
University of Kansas
115 Strong Hall, 1450 Jayhawk Blvd.
Lawrence, KS 66045
785-864-9600
policy@ku.edu
12/03/2018: Updated policy statment to reflect guidance from Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission. Policy Owner updated to Office of the Chancellor and applies to all University campuses.
12/03/2015: Updated link.
12/09/2014: Policy formatting cleanup (e.g., bolding, spacing).
02/13/2008: Amended to policy format.
11/09/2004: Reiterated by administrative memo.
1998: Information was first disseminated to faculty colleagues in 1998.
