The teaching and research environment in Finland in 2020: University and polytechnic libraries in a digital service network

Abstract

Purpose

The entire higher education legislation in Finland has been overhauled with effect from the beginning of 2010. The aim of the restructuring of higher education is to enhance teaching and research quality and increase effectiveness through a streamlined network of institutions coupled with stronger institutional profiling and priorities. University and polytechnic libraries form a key infrastructure in teaching and research, so it is vital for the development of higher education to ensure their operational quality. This paper seeks to describe the results of the work of a committee that was given the job of making recommendations on the successful implementation of the new legislation, especially from the point of view of library and information services.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a case study.

Findings

The committee suggests an efficient network of local libraries tied in with centralized services, as well as sound funding and legislation that will help fulfill the libraries' main tasks when building digital services for students and academics.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based on experience in Finland.

Practical implications

The paper gives examples of the action needed in restructuring the library network for the digital age.

Originality/value

The paper provides a model for national cooperation between centralized services and libraries at institutes of higher education.

Citation

Hormia‐Poutanen, K., Kuusinen, I., Saarti, J. and Vattulainen, P. (2011), "The teaching and research environment in Finland in 2020: University and polytechnic libraries in a digital service network", Library Management, Vol. 32 No. 8/9, pp. 599-611. https://doi.org/10.1108/01435121111187950