Developing a Centralized Hub for Research Data Services: Trainings and Resources in Health Sciences Contexts

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Library Science
• Data Science

Background:

• Health sciences libraries are increasingly expected to provide research data services.
• Existing efforts are fragmented, with unrealized potential and growing demands.
• New funder/publisher requirements and institutional needs drive demand for data science skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a national center to build capacity for data services in health sciences libraries.
• To coordinate, develop, and disseminate training, curricular resources, and learning pathways.
• To address the growing needs for data science skills and support in health-related research.

Main Methods:

• The National Center for Data Services (NCDS) was established in July 2021.
• NCDS operates as a national center within the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM).
• It collaborates with NNLM regional medical libraries and national organizations, focusing on equity, diversity, and accessibility.

Main Results:

• The NCDS is actively working to develop data service capacity within the health information community.
• It aims to provide coordinated training and resources to meet evolving research data needs.
• Efforts are being made to ensure equitable access and diverse participation in data services.

Conclusions:

• The establishment of NCDS represents a significant step in supporting research data services in health sciences libraries.
• Continued development and dissemination of resources are crucial to meet current and future demands.
• A focus on equity, diversity, and accessibility will be central to NCDS's mission.