Lefa la tsebo : a proposed model for framing Tshwane University of Technology’s libraries policies

Abstract

This article presents a proposed model for framing the policies of Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) libraries. The authors draw on a focused literature review across various disciplines as well as empirical evidence collected from a purposive sample of 40 participants in a case study. The qualitative evaluation method is used to evaluate a set of models. A self-developed set of criteria is used as a tool to test the models towards a selection of elements and features that are then used to table the proposed model for TUT’s libraries. The evaluated models were categorised to produce models for academic library activities, models for higher education as well as models that depict changes in society’s knowledge system. The adapted model proposes a multiple reality constructionist approach to improve a shared understanding of what constitutes knowledge in democratic South Africa. It was found that there are inconsistencies and a lack of clarity on the role of TUT’s libraries in transformation initiatives of the university. The main argument is that the future role of TUT’s libraries should include taking part in other processes of the knowledge system such as knowledge production, application and use. The main value of the article is to provide a comprehensive strategic outlook that guides the transformation of TUT’s libraries. This will assist to frame TUT’s libraries policies in light of changes taking place in higher education.