The outreach activities in the astronomical research institutions and the role of librarians: what happens in Italy

TL;DR

This paper examines the state of outreach activities at Italian astronomical research institutions, particularly INAF, and advocates for a more active role for librarians in enhancing public engagement.

Contribution

It introduces the idea of increasing librarians' involvement in outreach activities within Italian astronomical research institutions.

Findings

Outreach is a key mission for astronomical institutions.

Librarians can play a significant role in outreach efforts.

The paper proposes expanding librarians' roles in public engagement.

Abstract

The outreach activities can be considered a new frontier of all the main astronomical research institutions worldwide and are a part of their mission that earns great appreciation from the general public. Here the situation at INAF, the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics, is examined and a more active role for librarians is proposed.