Library as a Space for Educational Collaboration: Talent Development and Science Communication in Higher Education

This presentation explores the evolving role of the academic library as a dynamic space for educational collaboration, talent development, and science communication in higher education. While traditionally focused on supporting research and teaching through access to information resources, contemporary libraries increasingly act as active partners in the academic ecosystem. Drawing on the example of the Library of the Faculty of Science at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), the paper highlights how conventional services—such as research support (including Open Access publishing, research data management, and bibliometric services) and student services (providing learning spaces, access to digital resources, and information literacy training)—form a strong foundation for further innovation. Building on these core functions, the library has expanded its role since 2018 into the fields of talent development and science communication. Key initiatives include the highly successful “Young Scientist” science camp, which has engaged nearly 900 children over seven years, and the Talentum Academy and Talentum Program, which support talented secondary school students through interdisciplinary exploration, mentorship, and early involvement in research activities. In these programs, the library acts as an active partner, fostering critical thinking, information literacy, and responsible data use. The presentation also introduces the library’s science communication infrastructure, including a professional video studio that produces educational and outreach content, such as recruitment videos and a long-running science podcast. This facility not only enhances the visibility of scientific work but also develops students’ media competencies—an increasingly essential skill in academic and societal contexts. Finally, the paper outlines future directions, focusing on the development of a micro-credential program in science communication, aiming to equip students with the ability to effectively communicate scientific knowledge to diverse audiences. Overall, the presentation argues that academic libraries can play a central, interdisciplinary role in connecting research, education, and societal engagement, thereby becoming key drivers of innovation in higher education.