RedShelf to VitalSource: Migration Timeline and Key Changes
If your campus is migrating from RedShelf to VitalSource, this page outlines what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and what your team needs to complete to stay on track. Whether you’re supporting day-one access programs or Point of Sale (POS) sales, you’ll find all the key tasks and dates here.
Table of Contents
Spring 2026 Key Dates and Timeline
| Task | Recommended Timeline |
| POS Integration | September 22 - October 10th |
| SIS File Exchange Setup | September 22 - October 10th |
| LMS Integration (LTI & API) | September 29 - October 17th |
| Training Registration Begins | Mid-September 2025 |
| Billing Integration (optional) | After training is complete |
| VitalSource Platform Access | After SIS integration is complete |
Note: Completing the SIS file exchange is the critical unlock—it gives you access to your VitalSource instance and training resources.
What’s Changing?
Email Communication Tools
You’ll move from the RedShelf Inclusive Dashboard to Verba Connect (within VitalSource) to send communications to students and faculty.
Point of Sale (POS)
VitalSource uses POS data to facilitate the management of your IA program in addition to retail eBook sales.
If your store doesn’t already have a VitalSource POS integration, reach out to your POS provider to secure data feeds between your systems and VitalSource.
Want to learn more about kickstarting your POS integration? Visit VitalSource POS & RMS Integrations for Inclusive Access Programs page.
Adoption Submission
Going forward, you will manage your Inclusive Access program using VitalSource’s platform, replacing the shared tracker and RedShelf software.
Instructor Experience
Instructors will continue to access course materials through links in the LMS. With the transition to VitalSource, they’ll also gain access to new tools through the Instructor Portal, including:
- Instructor analytics to view student engagement data
- Bookshelf access to revisit current and past course materials
- Deep linking options to guide students to specific content in an eBook
For a walkthrough of how the instructor experience compares between RedShelf and VitalSource, please visit RedShelf vs. VitalSource: What Instructors Should Know.
Student Experience
Students will still access materials through the LMS, but with the added benefits of:
- Opt out by title (students choose which materials to keep)
- Fewer access codes
- Read Now buttons for instant eBook access
- Post-opt-out shopping options
Want a walkthrough of what students will see in the LMS? Visit our RedShelf vs. VitalSource: What Students Should Know (for Staff) page.
Training & Platform Access
- Training sessions begin mid-September and are required for users accessing the new platform. Click HERE to register.
- Platform access (Instructor Portal, Verba tools) begins after your SIS file exchange is complete.
Related Resources
-
Set for Success: Using the Instructor Dashboard
A how-to resource for navigating the Instructor Portal and exploring student engagement data. -
Spring 2026 Transition Overview
A high-level guide to the platform migration and what it means for bookstore teams, instructors, and campus staff. -
RedShelf vs. VitalSource: What Students Should Know (for Staff)
An overview of what students will see and do in the LMS, with a comparison of RedShelf and VitalSource access and opt-out flows. -
RedShelf vs. VitalSource: What Instructors Should Know
A comparison of instructor workflows in RedShelf vs. VitalSource, including the new Instructor Portal and analytics tools.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure where to start, contact your VitalSource Customer Success Manager or email us at success@vitalsource.com. We're here to support a smooth and successful migration.