The University of Maribor Library participated in the FAIR-IMPACT Support Programme to enhance the implementation of FAIR principles in the University of Maribor’s institutional repository, DKUM. Our efforts focused on policy improvements, increasing the FAIR-ness of data, and stakeholder engagement. We developed a FAIR Implementation Action Plan with six key objectives, including gaining CoreTrustSeal certification, improving the machine-readability of policies, enhancing visibility, and increasing the longterm value of research outputs. Progress was significantly disrupted by a major cyber-attack in October 2024, which temporarily paralyzed university systems. Despite this, the support team adapted quickly to maintain essential services, particularly for students. Long-term challenges such as limited staffing and resources have slowed implementation, especially in areas like machine-actionable policies and FAIR signposting.
Looking ahead, the library aims to complete postponed tasks, deepen cooperation with data stewards, contribute to national and international open science initiatives, and support policy changes to embed FAIR principles in PhD research processes.
Authors:
- Bernarda Korez, University of Maribor Library
- Jerneja Grašič, University of Maribor Library
- Maja Šnofl, University of Maribor Library
- Lassi Lager, CSC - IT Center for Science
- Elizabeth Newbold, STFC/UKRI
