Library seeks input to improve support for researchers

McMaster University Library is asking faculty members from across campus for input to help support the needs of researchers on campus.

The Library is inviting faculty* to complete a survey that focuses on how advancements in digital technology have impacted teaching and research. The information gathered from this survey will help to inform decisions on how the Library can develop collections and resources that provide enhanced support to McMaster researchers.

The survey will focus on several key areas including data preservation and management, the role of the library, student research skills, digital research activity as well as access and research dissemination.

“The data collected from this survey will provide us with valuable insights into how the library can respond to the complex and changing research landscape,” says McMaster University Librarian Vivian Lewis. “This information will help McMaster University Library make investments in collections, programs and services that meet the current and future needs of McMaster researchers.”

“This survey is an important opportunity for faculty to contribute to the development of library resources that will further support the teaching and research mission at McMaster. I encourage all faculty members to complete this survey,” says McMaster Provost David Wilkinson.

The Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL) is sponsoring the survey which will be conducted by Ithaka S+R, a non-profit organization that helps the academic community to use digital technologies, preserve the scholarly record and advance research and teaching in a sustainable way. McMaster is one of 12 Canadian universities participating in the survey.

This survey has been reviewed by the McMaster University Research Ethics Board and has received ethics clearance.

The survey will be conducted from January 19 to February 13, 2015. Faculty members will receive an email with a link to the survey.

Learn more about the Ithaka S+R Faculty Survey.

*In keeping with the methodology of the other survey sites, instructors from all Faculties, with the exception of clinical faculty, will be invited to participate.