Data in the Sciences
Broad discussion of data management in the sciences, and how libraries and librarians can embed themselves in the data lifecycle are presented, along with specific examples of how libraries have become involved with research data services.
Abstract
This chapter presents an introduction to scientific data and its relevance to librarians and libraries. The characteristics of science data in general, and in relation to a number of scientific disciplines, are identified. The disciplines discussed have been chosen because they demonstrate notable aspects of data management, either because of the type of data used or because of the requirements external agencies place on researchers. Federal funding agencies’ requirements for data management and sharing are discussed, along with initiatives to promote sharing of data, and notable large datasets and repositories are identified. Though the chapter mainly focuses on United States (U.S.) funding agencies, it also lists some international archives. Broad discussion of data management in the sciences, and how libraries and librarians can embed themselves in the data lifecycle, are presented, along with specific examples of how libraries have become involved with research data services.