The Nuts and Bolts of Supporting Change and Transformation for Research Librarians

Abstract

Libraries have a rich tradition of providing services and support to researchers. In recent years, changing technology, evolving research methods and requirements, and the transforming landscape of scholarly communication have revealed a need for libraries to actively engage scholars and participate in the entire research lifecycle. As liaison and subject librarian roles shift to a more holistic and engagement-focused model, it is important that libraries provide them with the tools and resources to develop new skills. This paper will focus on three ways in which the North Carolina State University Libraries created and supported relevant training and opportunities for research librarians to gain the expertise necessary to embrace new roles and deeper collaboration across the research enterprise. Examples include the Data and Visualization Institute for Librarians, the Visualization Discussion Series, and the Research Data Committee. Through these examples, we will share ideas for creating peer-to-peer learning opportunities, explore some of the skills necessary for increased engagement, and provide insights into the challenges and opportunities related to supporting and developing new skills for librarians.