Citizen-enhanced Open Science in Southeastern Europe Higher Education knowledge hubs

The European Union promotes accountability, transparency, and sustainability in addressing global challenges. Citizen Science (CS) is a vital part of Open Science (OS) and has engaged millions of volunteers. However, a disconnect between CS and OS limits the accessibility and impact of CS data. Bridging this gap could enhance initiatives like the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC) to tackle global issues, including the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Research libraries are essential in connecting science and society, supporting CS initiatives, and fostering open knowledge. Unfortunately, South-eastern Europe (SE) lags in OS and CS integration due to limited funding, language barriers, and insufficient professional skills, along with minimal engagement with broader European networks. To strengthen the OS culture in SE Europe, efforts should focus on: - Training professionals in OS and CS. - Encouraging library directors to connect with the European library community. The proposed project aims to promote Citizen-Enhanced Open Science by using higher education institution (HEI) libraries, in collaboration with public libraries, as hubs for open knowledge and innovation in SE Europe.

The project aims to enhance awareness and integrate OS and CS practices in Southeastern European countries, including Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Croatia, Italy, and Serbia. Currently, OS and CS activities in these regions are limited. The project focused on monitoring OS and CS implementation, sharing best practices that follow FAIR principles, and engaging the public in scientific collaboration. Key goals included: - Highlighting challenges and cultural diversity in Southeastern Europe. - Empowering academic libraries as knowledge hubs by upskilling staff in OS and CS. - Piloting Citizen-enhanced Open Science (CeOS) practices in libraries to foster inclusivity and external collaborations. The project was coordinated by LIBER, which emphasizes OS in its strategy. A strong focus was placed on connecting with the European Open Science Cloud to promote cultural change, sustainability, and inclusivity. Selected Target Groups: - Library staff: Professional development in OS and CS skills. - Academic staff at higher education institutions: increased awareness and support for CS projects. - Citizens: Engagement in OS and CS to strengthen ties between academia and society.

1. PR1: Framework for Transfer of Knowledge and Innovation on CeOS o PR1A1: Collection of best practices in citizen engagement in Open Science (OS) across European university libraries. o PR1A2: Audit of skills and practices in SE European university libraries. o PR1A3: Guidelines for SE European university libraries on citizen engagement in OS. 2. PR2: Report on CeOS Implementation in Open Knowledge Hubs in SE Europe o PR2A1: Compilation of collaborative practices between academic and public libraries in SE Europe. o PR2A2: Report on co-created Citizen Science (CS) activities by academic and public libraries. o PR2A3: Study on scaling up academic-public library collaboration for CeOS in SE Europe. 3. PR3: Report on CeOS Activities and Staff Training for Academic Libraries o PR3A1: Framework for designing and implementing CeOS activities in SE Europe libraries. o PR3A2: Assessment report of CeOS activities at partner institutions. o PR3A3: Training guide and self-assessment tool for library staff. 4. PR4: Roadmap on CeOS in the Balkans o PR4A1: Draft roadmap for CeOS development in the Balkan region. o PR4A2: Regional consultation on CeOS practices in the Balkans. o PR4A3: Finalized roadmap on CeOS in the Balkans. 5. PR5: Uptake of Citizen Science in HE Curricula and OS Practices in SE Europe o PR5A1: Analysis of current CeOS integration in Library studies curricula in SE Europe. o PR5A2: Digital showcase highlighting CeOS integration in higher education (HE) curricula. o PR5A3: Audit on how Citizen Science contributes to the Open Science cycle in SE Europe. 6. PR6: Policy Change for CeOS Sustainability and Impact – Connecting to EOSC o PR6A1: Report on vision-building workshops in SE Europe. o PR6A2: Analysis of CeOS practices in the Netherlands and their transferability. o PR6A3: Report on European-level stakeholder consultations. o PR6A4: Policy recommendations for sustaining CeOS and connecting it to the EOSC. Additional Outcomes: • Learning/Teaching/Training Activity: A focused training session to build capacity for CeOS practices. • Multiplier Events: Organized to disseminate project results, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage adoption of CeOS practices across SE Europe. Translation of Results: To maximize local impact, key project results will be translated into eight languages, covering: • SE European languages: Greek (EL), Serbian (SR), Croatian (HR), Bulgarian (BG), Italian (IT). • Partner languages: Danish (DK), Dutch (NL), and English. Specific documents like PR2A3 (collaboration study), PR4A3 (final roadmap), and their related infographics will be translated, ensuring accessibility for local and national stakeholders.