E‐science and information services: a missing link in the context of digital libraries

Purpose – This paper aims to analyse whether, and how far, library and information services (LIS) are involved in e‐Science and grid computing projects funded by authorities in the European Union and Germany. It explains and emphasises the relevance of LIS‐based information services and expertise in e‐Science activities. Design/methodology/approach – Projects were analysed to determine the extent to which institutions or persons with LIS expertise were involved and information services provided. Findings – Very few of the e‐Science projects made use of LIS‐based services. This omission could reduce the quality of e‐Science‐related research in the long term and LIS experts could lose their role and expertise in serving scientists. Further research is needed to verify this. Additionally research is needed to determine whether e‐Science projects in other countries are also lacking LIS services. Research limitations/implications – The research was undertaken during the preliminary phase of the projects. Practical implications – Funding should emphasise the inclusion and provision of LIS services. Originality/value – The findings show a lack of LIS services in e‐Science projects, which could otherwise enhance the projects' development and the distribution of their results.