Towards digital scholarship services in China’s university libraries

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to report on a literature review that aimed to establish a guiding framework for the development of digital scholarship services in China’s university libraries. Design/methodology/approach The framework was developed through systematically searching, screening, assessing, coding and aggregating digital scholarship services as reported in the existing body of literature. Three types of literature were included in the analysis: international academic literature as reported in English; academic literature in Chinese; and relevant professional reports. Findings The literature analysis pointed to 25 different digital scholarship services, which emerged in six themes: supporting services, formulating research ideas, locating research partners, writing proposals, conducting research and publishing results. Originality/value Although this literature review focused on university libraries in China, the research findings and the guiding framework developed provide useful insights and indications that can be shared across international borders.