The Quality Reform of Higher Education in Norway was implemented into the education system from the academic year 2003-2004. The need for an assessement of the Norwegian system of higher edudation has been apparent for a long time. Several governmental commissions have given their recommendations during the last decade. The main objectives of the refom vas given in a White Paper from the Government in summer 2000.

Some major principles:

• Universities and colleges will be allowed greater freedom in academic, financial and organizational issues
• A new common degree structure will be introduced (in accordance with the Bologna Declaration)
• Teaching methods involving a high level of student activities, new forms of assessments and regular feedback that promotes learning
• Agreements between institutions and students which clearly outline rights and responsibilities
• A special focus on quality in education and learning. E-learning
• Financing models which support quality, and education and research policy goals and strategies
• Internationalisation

The reform will influence on several library areas:

- Focus on e-resources and implementation of library services in the learning management system
- New library system solutions - Portals
- Quality management
- Focus on information litteracy
- Closer contact with teachers
- Library cooperation
- Strong priorities. Demand for cost/benefit analysis