College Library Receives National Award for Innovation

by Jonathan Harper
Trafford College Library

Each year the Council for Learning Resources in Colleges (CoLRiC) celebrates exemplary practice and innovation across Colleges and Further Education, awarding one institution with the ‘CoLRiC Innovative Practice Award (CIPA)’.

This year the recipient of the 2021 Innovative Practice Award was the Trafford College Library Service for ‘LibraryLive’; an initiative that enabled the Library Services to integrate into the curriculum across the college.

Karen Hurley, Library Services Manager said: “It’s fantastic to get this recognition for the LibraryLive project which was developed whilst working remotely during the national lockdown.  Feedback from our students and staff has shown how LibraryLive has improved assignments and supported them when studying during this difficult time; demonstrating the role the Library Service can play in supporting teaching and learning and improving outcomes for our learners. The award acknowledges the initiative and innovation we have as a Library Service and as a Microsoft Showcase College and has encouraged us to continue to work with our learners to develop and enhance their online student experience”.

As Microsoft Teams and Office365 became a key method of delivering teaching and learning during lockdown, our Library team here at Trafford College worked to ensure that a quality service was still accessible to students, integrating library resources and support into the new learning environment. The project has been credited as ‘a wonderful example of designing and delivering a rapid response to changing circumstances’ when considered within the award shortlist.

Mirna Peach Co-Chair of the Council for Learning Resources in Colleges said: “For over a year, we have all experienced unprecedented challenges and change. Colleges across the UK have responded in ways that showcase the creativity, flexibility and innovation of our sector. The stories Libraries from Colleges and Sixth Forms shared this year highlight the positive impact these services have on students and colleagues. We thank everyone for sharing their experiences and congratulate our worthy winners at Trafford College.”