Higher Education in TAFE: a new mixed sector library paradigm

Abstract

Ten Australian TAFE institutions are currently able to offer higher education degree qualifications - diplomas, advanced diplomas and degrees, catering to 2,000 students. Although this number of students is small, it continues to expand in alignment with the federal government's strategy to reach its target of 40% of young adult Australians having minimum degree-level qualifications by 2020. This raises significant implications for TAFE libraries in catering to these higher education students. From an absence of a research culture to the provision of greater learning support, TAFE libraries are having to adapt to new demands that hosting higher education courses brings. Interviews with TAFE library managers reveal different stages of library support for these courses and students and concerns over the future.