The Digital Humanities Hub was established as part of a collaborative in-house project between professional services and academic researchers to enhance the quality of Arts and Humanities research at the University of Reading and promote innovation through DH principles, digital tools and methodologies.
The project was established with RETF funding and is a key part of the long-term strategy for the University of Reading’s Heritage & Creativity (H&C) theme, spearheaded by Roberta Gilchrist, Research Dean. The first phase of the project (2021-23) created a sustainable base for Digital Humanities support, situated in the University Library.
The Library serves as the entry point to a cross-service team that combines expertise from the University Library and Collections Services, DTS, and Research Services (RES), working closely with academic colleagues. Digital Humanities is also integrated with existing Research Engagement support provided within the Library, including Open Access and Open Research.
The project’s main outcomes were as follows:
- An online resource (i.e. this website) providing access to internal and external resources, training, and guidance to help researchers develop ideas for employing digital approaches in research
- Face-to-face support, including drop-in surgeries, facilitation of best practice workshops and networking events
- Collaborative support for the development of grant proposals that involve a digital element, overseen by RES and provided from across the Hub team
- Establishment of and support for a scholarly community based around the principles of Digital Humanities research, including a Community of Practice, led by the Academic Champion
- Development of new processes and approaches to support provision for research projects, in conjunction with DTS and UMASCS
The DH Hub team undertook a consultancy exercise across the H&C theme and met with researchers representing all divisions to gain insight into the areas to prioritise for support. The support we provide is directly informed by the needs of our research community, and this dialogue remains open.