Strengthening Resilience in Research Data Services: An Early- Career Perspective on Building Capacity Through Professional Development

Samantha Harmon

As research data services evolve, libraries must remain agile and forward-thinking. My participation in the DSCPE program during my first semester as an early-career academic librarian provided critical training in advocating for data management resources, foundations in data literacy, and navigating the complexities of research culture, equipping me to adapt to shifting priorities and resource constraints. Modules on data privacy, licensing, and copyright prepared me to address emerging ethical challenges, ensuring libraries lead with integrity. My capstone project, centered on AI literacy and ethics, illustrates how professional development can translate into scalable, forward-thinking resources. This session will highlight how investing in continuing education early in one's career or transition into data services builds confidence in developing sustainable, flexible services that respond to the ever-changing research landscape.