Research data management in academic libraries: institutional repositories as a reservoir for research data

Purpose This study aims to conceptualize the application and management of research data in academic libraries through institutional repositories. The objectives of the study are to determine the role of academic libraries in managing research data, to explore the ethical issues related to research data management (RDM) services and to determine stakeholders involved in the success of RDM. Design/methodology/approach The study employs a qualitative research design within the interpretive paradigm, using content analysis to explore RDM in academic libraries and institutional repositories. The research aims to determine the role of academic libraries in managing research data, explore ethical issues related to RDM services and identify key stakeholders. Literature was sourced from databases like Emerald Insight, Scopus and Google Scholar, focusing on publications from 2020 to 2024. Case studies from institutions such as the University of Pretoria and Stellenbosch University illustrated practical RDM implementations. Ethical considerations were strictly adhered to, ensuring proper citation and adherence to RDM guidelines. Findings The reviewed literature established the significance of managing research data through institutional repositories while highlighting the research data lifecycle, stakeholders involved in the success of RDM and ethical issues related to RDM services. RDM involves stakeholders such as institutional researchers, government and funding agencies, university leadership and research support units. Research limitations/implications This study demonstrated the importance of effective RDM practices in enhancing transparency, reproducibility and efficiency in academic research. Institutional repositories play a crucial role in preserving and making research data accessible, thereby promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and increasing citation rates. Practical implications The study provided actionable recommendations for academic libraries to support researchers in complying with RDM policies through training, clear guidelines and user-friendly repository interfaces. These strategies enhance the effectiveness of RDM practices and ensure regulatory compliance. Social implications The study underscores the need for regulatory frameworks that promote open science and data sharing while ensuring ethical guidelines for data privacy and informed consent. It also highlights well-managed research data’s economic and commercial benefits, such as facilitating industry–-academia collaboration. Originality/value This study is significant as it contributed to the body of knowledge and theoretically motivated how institutional repositories can be of value in reserving research data by highlighting the benefits and significance of sharing research data. A proper RDM increases the opportunities for funders, institutions, publishers and libraries to redesign policies that govern research data sharing.