This series provides a set of practical guides for the busy professional in need of inspiration. Sourced from experienced library and information practitioners, grounded in theory, yet not overwhelmed by it, the information in these guides will tell you what you need to know to make a quick impact in a range of topical areas of professional interest.

Each book takes a tips-based approach to introduce best practice ideas and encourage adaptation and innovation.

The series is aimed at experienced library and information professionals looking for new ideas and inspiration, as well as new professionals wanting to tap into the experience of others, and students and educators interested in how theory is put into practice.

Practical Tips for Facilitating Research

The changing nature of the research environment, involving increased competition and demand for wider dissemination and impact, provides challenges for librarians, but also opportunities. Roles are evolving, with activities being driven more by researcher requirements, which in turn requires more engagement with researchers. New specialisms are also emerging, such as that of data librarians. This book aims to provide practical tips for librarians wishing to survive the ‘crisis in research librarianship’, demonstrate value and shape new roles in the research process.

Moira J. Bent has a wealth of experience working with researchers in her library role, and indeed as a researcher herself. When looking for an author to write this book she was an obvious choice.

Moira has previously written about providing effective library services for researchers and explored information literacy throughout a researcher's life. As a leading expert in information literacy, Moira co-authored the SCONUL Seven Pillars of Information Literacy. She was an advisor on the information literacy lens on the Vitae's Researcher Development Framework and coauthored the Informed Researcher booklet.

While supporting researchers has long been part of an academic librarian's job, Moira feels strongly that librarians have a role beyond ‘support’ – that we can play a vital role as a partner in the research process. While this book is intended to provide practical advice, ideas and tips, it may also change how you think about your role.

As well as incorporating her own tried and tested examples, Moira has gathered together ideas from practitioners around the world and added her own reflections.