E-Science as a Catalyst for Transformational Change in University Research Libraries: A Dissertation

Abstract

Changes in how research is conducted, from the growth of e-science to the emergence of big data, have lead to new opportunities for librarians to become involved in the creation and management of research data, at the same time the duties and responsibilities of university libraries continue to evolve. This study examines those roles related to e-science while exploring the concept of transformational change and leadership issues in bringing about such a change. Using the framework established by Levy and Merry for first- and second-order change, four case studies of libraries whose institutions are members in the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) are developed. The case studies highlight why the libraries became involved in e-science, the role librarians are assuming related to data management education and policy, and the provision of e-science programs and services. Each case study documents the structural and programmatic changes that have occurred in a library to provide e-science services and programs, the future changes library leaders are working to implement, and the change management process used by managerial leaders to bringing about, and permanently embed those changes into the library culture. Themes such as vision, team leadership, the role of library administrators, skills of library staff, and fostering a learning organization are discussed in the context of e-science and leading transformational change. The transformational change included a change in culture, organization paradigm, and redefining the role of the university research library.