Involvement of polish libraries in citizen science

Abstract

The article discusses the involvement of Polish libraries in citizen science. Based on a survey of library staff, the author answers whether Polish libraries are involved in promoting the idea of citizen science, how they participate in projects in this field and what barriers they encounter doing so. The research used the diagnostic survey method. The survey questionnaire contained nine questions and demographics. The survey was available in the LimeSurvey system from November 2, 2023, to January 31, 2024. A link to the survey was sent via e-mail to over 600 librarians of various types of libraries using the Association of Polish Librarians mailing list. It was also shared on Facebook. In response to the survey, 256 responses were received, of which only 107 were complete. The research proves that Polish libraries are involved in citizen science to a limited extent. Only 25% of the surveyed librarians admitted that their institution is involved in projects in this field, and this involvement comes down to providing library resources and lending technical infrastructure. Only four people (3.6% of all respondents) stated that citizen science is a priority in their institutions (which means that the library promotes citizen science, launches independent projects, creates resources, and conducts workshops for scientists and volunteers). As many as 63% of librarians said their institutions are currently separate from citizen science. Polish librarians listed the most significant barriers hindering involvement in citizen science: resource shortages (human resources, financial resources and equipment) and a low level of knowledge about the essence of citizen science and the possibilities of incorporating its projects into library activities.