CPUT Library Annual Report 2013

The year 2013 saw CPUT Libraries expand its international networks, thereby introducing global perspectives and opportunities for future development. This included the cooperation with Virginia Polytech on the development of a joint MOOC (massive open online course) and that with Technical University Munich on research data management. These projects will prove important as the Library moves towards hosting a repository for research and other intellectual property outputs. The hosting of the 34th IATUL (International Association of Technological University Libraries) Conference during April 2013 was a significant contribution to the development of libraries in South Africa, attracting 160 delegates with roughly 50% international participants. The subsequent appointment of Dr Elisha Chiware, Director of CPUT Libraries, as Secretary of IATUL further cemented CPUT’s position within the international library community. At the same time, the Library has continued on a path of modernising its services, including the development of open student spaces to improve the student library experience, and the sourcing of e-books to supplement student learning material. Such initiatives have allowed the Library to share the responsibility of promoting student success with faculties and academic departments. Further to this, the Library made headway during 2013 in working closely with faculties, through its Faculty Librarians, in addressing the access to learning material at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This included linking into the LMS and Blackboard systems to post relevant literature for student reference. With a clear vision for the future through a well-structured strategic plan, CPUT Libraries is poised to improve its service delivery into the future, towards an integrated resource for the benefit of learning and scholarship at CPUT