The Role of the Librarian in the Research Life Cycle

Abstract

This chapter documents the role that is played by the librarians in the research life cycle and how they collaborate with researchers. Initially, librarians were regarded as service people who provide research support services during the research process. A literature review was done to unpack how this role was affected by the digital technologies and examine the partnering role that is now being displayed by librarians. It was noted that although there are some challenges that are encountered, researchers are collaborating with librarians from idea generation to the dissemination of research findings and evaluating the impact of the research. It was recommended that librarians should move along with these changes and should continuously develop themselves so that they are aware of the services that they are supposed to provide during the research process.

The future of academic librarianship: the imperatives of embedded librarianship practice and implementation

“…Through their research knowledge, a librarian can actively participate in research projects independently and provide valuable assistance to their scholars throughout their research journey (Leonard et al ., 2023). Embedded librarianship enables librarians to demonstrate their research abilities and expertise in information search, identification, dissemination, and data management, leading to stronger connections and the establishment of healthy relationships between scholars and librarians (Carlson and Kneale, 2011; Chigwada, 2020; Bernstein et al ., 2020). According to the Mensah and Owusu-Ansah (2018), writing a research proposal, conducting research for the benefits of library services is another significant competency for embedded librarianship.…”

“…The notion of “embedded librarianship” has emerged in direct response to the rapid progress in information and communication technology (ICT). This evolution has led to fundamental shifts in the methods of learning, information retrieval, scholarly communication, and utilizations of information resources (Chigwada, 2020; Mushi et al ., 2023; Leonard et al ., 2023). Notably, it is now essential for library professionals to develop and possess new skill sets and competencies.…”

The state of embedded librarianship in the university research processes in selected African academic libraries

“…The person blends the roles of a researcher and a traditional librarian. Embedded librarianship helps librarians demonstrate their expertise in information finding and dissemination, leading to stronger connections and relationships between researchers and librarians (Chigwada, 2020;Carlson and Kneale, 2011). The library is becoming irrelevant, so librarians should be embedded in the research process to remain relevant to the research community they serve (Allen and Seaman, 2010).…”

“…The concept of "embedded librarianship" has been a focal point of discussion within the library context for over a decade now, and it is considered a feasible route for the future of the profession (Bonanni and Vogus, 2022;Mushi et al, 2022;Luca, 2019;Rowland et al, 2014;Knapp, 2012). The emphasis on "embedded librarianship" emanates from the advancement of information and communication technology, which has changed the mode of learning, information-seeking behaviour, the nature of scholarly communication, and publishing models that require new skill sets and competencies for the library user community (Mushi et al, 2022;Chigwada, 2020). In addition, the demand for embedded librarianship in academic institutions is exalted because of the expectations for higher education institutions to produce students with transferable skills beyond the discipline competency (Burke and Tumbleson, 2016;Dewey, 2004;Ivey, 2003).…”