DURHAM, N.C. – Durham Technical Community College (Durham Tech) is evolving its course material strategy through a new partnership with BibliU—introducing a modern, access-based model designed to improve affordability and ensure students receive all required materials by the first day of class.
Beginning this fall, Durham Tech will implement BibliU’s Equitable Access program, providing digital course materials to students at a flat rate. Content will be delivered directly through Canvas ensuring every learner starts the term fully prepared. As part of the transition, BibliU will also modernize the college’s campus store, unveiling a refreshed physical space and launching a user-friendly online marketplace offering branded gear, school supplies, and other student essentials.
Durham Tech is now the ninth college in North Carolina to partner with BibliU, reinforcing a strong and growing statewide shift toward a more consistent, scalable, and student-centered approach to course materials and campus retail. Previously partnered with Follett, the college’s transition illustrates how BibliU’s solutions work seamlessly across institutions of all sizes, whether or not they maintain a physical store, and are easily adaptable for schools moving from a range of legacy providers and bookstore models.
The partnership is especially timely given Durham Tech’s dual mission to prepare students for both direct-to-work careers and university transfer pathways. The college offers high-impact training in fields such as nursing, IT, HVAC, welding, and public safety, while also maintaining strong transfer outcomes—91.6% of students who transfer to a four-year university go on to succeed academically, outperforming the statewide average of 89.5%. By ensuring all students have day one access to essential learning materials, regardless of program, BibliU supports Durham Tech’s commitment to both workforce readiness and academic mobility.
It also aligns with Durham Tech’s “Do Great in Eight” accelerated course format, which shifts most instruction to eight-week blocks. Early results from Fall 2024 show promising gains: pass rates increased from 71.6% to 75.4%, while failure and withdrawal rates declined. In this faster-paced structure—where students are encouraged to focus deeply on fewer classes—having materials on day one is essential, making BibliU’s Equitable Access model a strong strategic fit.
“We look forward to working with BibliU as our bookstore partner,” said Susan Bowen, Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at Durham Tech. “We believe this company is deeply committed to providing high-quality service for our campus community and that it is dedicated to supporting student success.”
“Durham Tech plays a critical role in creating economic opportunity across the Research Triangle,” said Dave Sherwood, CEO and Co-Founder of BibliU. “They’re not just offering classes—they’re preparing students for real careers in healthcare, biotech, public safety, and more. We’re proud to support that mission by helping ensure every learner starts with the resources they need to succeed.”
About Durham Tech
Durham Technical Community College serves more than 18,000 students annually through credit and non-credit programs across its Durham and Orange County campuses. With a focus on workforce development, career pathways, and transfer opportunities, Durham Tech offers high-quality education and training in fields such as healthcare, information technology, biotechnology, public safety, and more. The college is committed to equity, excellence, and economic mobility for the diverse communities it serves across the Research Triangle region. Learn more at www.durhamtech.edu.
About BibliU
BibliU is a leading provider of comprehensive campus store solutions focused on improving affordability and accessibility in higher education. Through its innovative access programs and campus store management services, BibliU partners with over 150 institutions globally to streamline content delivery, reduce costs, enhance student success, and improve the overall academic experience. Learn more at bibliu.com.
BibliU Contact
Julia McKee
Senior Marketing Manager
Durham Tech Contact
Gabriel Baker
Coordinator, Public Relations
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