This document discusses open textbooks and their potential to increase access, affordability, and academic success in higher education. It notes that the high cost of textbooks has prevented many qualified students from completing college degrees. Open textbooks can help address this issue by making educational resources freely available. The document provides statistics on the high and rising costs of textbooks for students. It also summarizes several studies that found open textbooks led to equal or better learning outcomes for students compared to traditional textbooks, while saving students and institutions significant amounts of money. The University of Northwestern's open textbook initiative is highlighted as a successful example of adopting open textbooks to reduce costs and increase access.