Engaging With Research And Publication As An Early Career Librarian: A Survey Of Confidence And Contributing Factors

Abstract

The authors examine the engagement of early career librarians with research and publication via an online survey, in which participants rated factors that influence their research and publication and their confidence in those activities. Top positive influencing factors are of a technical and interpersonal nature: access to scholarly resources; access to technology; and collaborator support. Of the qualified responses (n = 255), the majority reported a lack of confidence in their skills but a desire to publish. These results can inform the education, workplace support, and professional development opportunities for early career librarians as they get started with research and publication.