Modern Library Potential as Science Popularizer: Inquiry Results of SB RAS Scientists

Abstract

The objective of the article is to present the results of a study of scientists’ attitude to communication between science and society by means of libraries. The working method of the study was an online questionnaire of academic specialists of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS) research institutes. Data collection took place in early 2023. The questionnaire consisted of 20 questions, divided into four thematic blocks: 1) the main science popularizers in Russia (researchers’ opinion); 2) participation of SB RAS research institutes in communication with society and the most important directions of this activity; 3) attitude of scientists to necessity of interaction with society aimed at popularization of science; 4) attitude of scientists to libraries as science and society communication participants including science popularization. Basing on the data obtained, Siberian scientists appear to be, in general, positive about libraries as popularizers of domestic science and technology achievements. However, they consider scientists themselves and media the main actors in this field, as well as scientific societies, research and educational institutions, museums and professional science communicators. A number of respondents noted low attendance of libraries, their archaic and closed nature, and lack of sufficient competence of library specialists to promote science at a high level. Nevertheless, most of the researchers highly appreciated library as a full-fledged science and society communication participant. Many SB RAS scientists have experience of cooperation with libraries, such as, for example, reading popular science lectures and preparing exhibitions. The survey showed that researchers are not well aware of the activities and opportunities of modern libraries, therefore library institutions are invited to be active in building effective interaction with science and society.