Open science and academic libraries in Africa

Abstract

This study is a comprehensive review of existing scholarly literature on Open Science to explore the prospects and adoption of Open Science (OS) in academic libraries in Africa. The study explains the history, dimensions, drivers and ecosystem of OS. The potential impacts, which include visibility, cost effectiveness, increased availability of scholarly resources, enhanced research outcomes, and greater collaboration among researchers, are identified. The study also highlights the challenges that African academic libraries face in the adoption of open science, such as limited funding and infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled professionals. The paper identifies the unique challenges and opportunities that academic libraries in the region face. The researchers recommend open science best practices such as prioritizing of the training of librarians, and awareness, developing supportive policies, investing in infrastructure, aligning with advocacy groups for support, and fostering international collaboration.