Breaking Boundaries: Advocacy for Citizen Science in European Higher Education Libraries

In the dynamic landscape of higher education libraries, this research, an initiative within the LIBER Citizen Science Working Group's Strategic Decision 3, delves into pioneering advocacy for the integration of Citizen Science.

Considering that libraries need to gain recognition for the specific nature of their profession in implementing, supporting and disseminating Citizen Scienceparticipatory science, we worked on an interactive poster that would be an easy-to-grasp tool for arguing with university presidents and faculties.

The exploration is driven by five compelling advocacy arguments, each highlighting the unique role of librarians in advancing the principles and practices of Citizen Science. The arguments will focus on themes: Citizen Science = Open Science, Citizen Science and dissemination of knowledge, Citizen Science and integrity of science, valorization of Citizen Science projects, and Citizen Science and library collections. The selected arguments underscore the transformative role of librarians in advancing open, disseminated, and integrity-driven scientific practices within the context of Citizen Science.

Each of these arguments is illustrated by examples and case studies, that we compiled from interviews. We led guided interviews with representatives from three European higher education libraries for each advocacy argument, aiming to distill and showcase the most impactful and forward-thinking practices. These examples show the dynamism of librarians, all over Europe, on a topic that is a subject that adds another stone to the edifice of open science policies.

Our interactive poster will be a dynamic resource for the broader library community, serving as a platform for conference attendees to actively participate in shaping the future of Citizen Science advocacy, fostering engagement and collaborative ideation for advancing advocacy efforts in European higher education libraries.

In embracing originality, innovation, and relevance, this exploration tool aligns with the strategic goals of the LIBER Citizen Science Working Group and serves as a catalyst for transformative practices in higher education libraries. The impact and implications of this work extend beyond the immediate audience, inspiring librarians, educators, and policymakers to embrace innovation in fostering open and collaborative science.