Introducing Digital Scholarship and Data Science Topic Guides

Launched at the LIBER Annual Conference 2025, Digital Scholarship & Data Science Topic Guides for Library Professionals (DS Topic Guides) is a brand new, open and collaboratively curated training resource for library professionals.

Created jointly by LIBER Working Groups Digital Scholarship & Digital Cultural Heritage (DSDCH) and Data Science in Libraries (DSLib), with contributions from members of the Copyright & Legal Matters and Open Access the platform currently features 18 topic guides, all of which provide a concise introduction to digital scholarship and data science topics in libraries today.

Designed to help busy professionals get quickly up to speed on complex topics, each guide includes a concise introduction to the topic, relevance to the library sector, hands-on activities and tutorials, recommended resources, and tips for finding communities of practice.

The DS Topic Guides’ relevance to librarians stems from their authorship: they’re written by LIBER members to fellow library professionals, breaking down many complex subjects into clear and approachable learning materials. Designed with beginners in mind, the guides support users in becoming quickly familiar with topics such as AI in Machine Learning in Libraries, offering an accessible introduction and means of catching up on key concepts relevant in modern library work.”

Nora McGregor, Co-Chair LIBER DSDCH Working Group & DS Topic Guides Managing Editor, British Library

Contribute to the DS Topic Guides

Working in the field of digital scholarship or data science? The DS Topic Guides platform is looking to continuously expand its portfolio, inviting members to contribute their personal knowledge and expertise to the wider research library community. Suggested proposal topics include (but are not limited to):

• Climate Change and Digital Sustainability
• Cultural Competency & Ethics in Digital Methods
• Demystifying Computational Environments for Digital Scholarship
• Digital Scholarship/Data Science Project Management, Evaluation and Impact Assessment
• Digital Storytelling
• Wikimedia Foundation Projects

Have a topic you’re passionate about? Choose from our wishlist or pitch your own. We’re especially keen to hear from colleagues across Europe! 

Any questions? 

Please feel free to contact digitalresearch@bl.uk.