The art and science of data curation

Abstract

Purpose – For the past decade, as universities have increased their research commitments, the production of large data sets has become prevalent. Up to this point, the storage and curation of these data sets has been somewhat ad hoc and voluntary. Given recent mandatory stipulations coming from government funding sources regarding the handling of data sets, it is imperative that libraries step into this gap and provision data management services for their institutions. This column aims to explore two primary areas in which libraries can provision services for their parent institutions regarding data management. Design/methodology/approach – The column is exploratory in nature. Practical implications – As academic libraries take the lead in data management services, there are many positive implications for their parent institutions. Organizing and preserving important data sets could have a significant impact on the worldwide research community. Originality/value – All academic libraries, no matter their size, have a level of responsibility regarding the collection and curation of data sets. This is a responsibility not only to the local institution, but also to the wider scope of researchers who may make use of those data sets. This column is an exhortation for academic libraries to take the lead in the area of data management.