HARNESSING THE POTENTIALS OF RESEARCH DATA MANAGEMENT SERVICES IN NIGRIA: THE ROLE OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIES

Abstract

This paper discuss the potentials of research data management services in academic libraries in general with emphasis on academic libraries in Nigeria. It summarizes the research data management life cycle to include: data creation; data collection and description, data storage; data archiving and preservation; data access; data discovery and analysis, and data reuse and transformation. The paper further identified research data management tools and applications, such as DMPonline, Data Asset framework, Collaborative Assessment of Research Data Infrastructure and Objectives (CARDIO), and Curation cost exchange. Specifically, the paper examines some skills requirements for research data management in academic libraries. Among the challenges facing effective research data management services identified in this paper include technology obsolescence, technology fragility; Lack of guidelines on good practice; Inadequate financial and human resources to manage data well, and Lack of evidence about best infrastructures.