Students to get noses into more books under CIT deal

Jacquelyn Curtis

CIT students Ms Kroone and Ms Curtis make themselves at home in the University library Photo: Michelle Khoo

15 August 2006: Despite more than 7,000 new resources added to the Library collection this year, the Library continues to expand its collection - this time beyond the four walls of building 8.

A new arrangement between the University and CIT will give students from both institutions the ability to borrow material from the general collections of each other's libraries.

The reciprocal borrowing privileges came into effect in mid July, and through a simple registration process, students are able to access a wealth of resources.

For CIT interior design student Virginia Curtis, the ability to access library resources at the University is a welcome initiative for her and fellow classmates.

"We all filled out registration forms in class and can't wait to get into the UC library and see what they have," she said.

"Being able to access and borrow the University material is fantastic for us because now we have a whole new collection to utilise."

The reciprocal borrowing arrangement builds on the collaborative objectives behind the 'Beyond Articulation' project, which aims to increase collaboration and resource sharing and improve student opportunities, choices and pathways between the University and CIT.

In addition to more than 100 credit transfer arrangements, the University and CIT have jointly developed programs in areas such as interior design, communication and new media and early childhood studies.

CIT students studying in these discipline areas who go on to complete degrees at the University will particularly benefit from the reciprocal borrowing privileges. University students will also benefit from the complimentary library resources at CIT.

Rosi Kroone, a CIT student, who will complete the final year of Bachelor of Interior Design at the University next year, said access to the library would help her to make a smooth transition after graduating from CIT.

"Being able to use the University library will give me the chance to put its services and resources to practical use before my studies even begin," she said. "Plus I'll be able to get to know the campus environment as well."

Students can register by presenting a current student card at the UC and CIT libraries.