Selected literature illustrating programs undertaken by consortia in higher education is reviewed in the following categories: (1) Expanded Curricula and Research Projects; (2) Faculty and Manpower Development; (3) Community Enrichment Programs; (4) State, Regional Planning and Coordination; and (5) Expansion of Services and Facilities. The author cautions that, although the consortium is an idea whose time has come, it is not a panacea for solving the problems facing postsecondary education today. While there are significant barriers to inter-institutional cooperation in higher education, they can be overcome and consortia can be useful in solving problems and instrumental in effecting change in higher education. A bibliography is appended. (RL)