Research data management and libraries: relationships, activities, drivers and influences

Area of Science:

• Information Science
• Library Science
• Research Management

Background:

• Research data management (RDM) presents significant challenges for academic institutions due to rapidly increasing volumes of digital data.
• Academic libraries are increasingly involved in RDM, necessitating an understanding of their role within the broader institutional context.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the contribution of academic libraries to institutional research data management (RDM).
• To examine RDM roles, relationships, program components, drivers, and influencing factors from a library professional's perspective.
• To develop a model for institutional RDM programs.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 26 semi-structured interviews with library staff across UK institutions.
• Analysis of roles, relationships, program components, drivers, and influencing factors in RDM.
• Construction of a model to represent institutional RDM programs.

Main Results:

• Libraries play a significant role in RDM, particularly in data preservation, security, and sharing.
• There is notable uncertainty and variation in the collaboration between libraries and other stakeholders (e.g., IT services, research support offices).
• Current RDM programs focus on policies and guidelines, with emerging efforts in infrastructure and support services.

Conclusions:

• Academic libraries are key players in RDM, but inter-departmental collaboration needs strengthening.
• A comprehensive model can help institutions understand and benchmark their RDM initiatives.
• Addressing governance, resourcing, and skills is crucial for successful RDM development.