Scientific Activities of National Libraries: on the Materials of Websites of the Largest Libraries in the World

The article aims to study the role of national libraries (NL) in scientific activities and analyze their involvement in the scientific environment. The objectives of the research are: to identify the main areas of scientific activity of national libraries, to identify scientific departments in their organizational structure and to study ways of presenting the results of library scientific work. The scientific novelty lies in the comprehensive analysis of the research activities of foreign national libraries, based on the materials of websites, which makes it possible to expand the understanding of functions of national libraries as an active participant in the scientific process. Special attention is devoted to the significance of NL as scientific centers. The contribution of NL into science is examined and their important role in storing, preserving and transferring scientific knowledge underlined. The key aspects of their activities focused on supporting scientific research, promoting cultural heritage and ensuring the availability of information resources are highlighted. The initiatives of the world’s leading libraries aimed at strengthening their status in the global scientific community are noted. National libraries participate in the coordination of scientific research, developing interdisciplinary ties and partnerships with leading scientific and educational institutions. Libraries serve as keepers of historical memory and a treasure trove of cultural traditions, collecting and preserving the unique heritage of mankind. The article provides specific examples of successful practices of the leading national libraries, demonstrating their activity in the development of scientific projects and programs. It is concluded that scientific activities of national libraries acquire a fundamentally new importance in the context of rapid changes and global transformations taking place in the society and global scientific space. Along with preserving cultural heritage and providing access to knowledge, scientific activity is one of the key areas of work of national libraries of foreign countries. In the recent decades, the role of national libraries as research centers has increased significantly, especially in connection with digitalization, the development of digital humanities and introduction of AI technologies. Many national libraries are actively developing projects in the field of big text data mining and machine learning.

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