WikiResearch Library
| Native name | উইকিগবেষণা গ্রন্থাগার |
|---|---|
| Type | Research library |
| Established | September 2025 |
| Location | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| Managed by | Wikimedia Bangladesh |
| Collection size | 20+ books |
| Access | Eligible Wikimedia contributors (policy-based) |
The WikiResearch Library is a knowledge-support initiative by Wikimedia Bangladesh, established in September 2025, to assist active Wikimedians in research and content development while contributing to the expansion of free knowledge in Bangladesh. The idea for the initiative was originally proposed by Wikimedia contributor Rocky, and it was later developed and implemented by Wikimedia Bangladesh. The library provides Wikimedia contributors with access to curated books and reference materials that support evidence-based writing, proper citation, and the development of well-researched content across Wikimedia projects.
As Wikimedia platforms continue to expand, the need for credible and well-sourced information becomes increasingly important. The WikiResearch Library addresses this need by maintaining a specialized collection of research materials that contributors can consult while developing or improving articles. By facilitating access to reliable sources, the initiative helps enhance the accuracy, depth, and academic reliability of content across Wikimedia platforms.
Purpose and Vision
[edit]The primary objective of the WikiResearch Library is to create a supportive research environment for Wikimedians who actively contribute to knowledge development. The initiative encourages contributors to rely on high-quality references when creating new articles or expanding existing ones. Through access to curated books and scholarly resources, the project aims to strengthen citation practices and promote responsible knowledge production within the Wikimedia ecosystem.
In addition to supporting individual editors, the library seeks to foster a culture of research-based contribution within the community. By making trusted reference materials more accessible, the initiative encourages contributors to engage with complex subjects and develop comprehensive, well-sourced articles.
Collection and Resources
[edit]The library maintains a curated collection of books and reference materials selected for their relevance to Wikimedia content development. The collection focuses on key knowledge areas that frequently require reliable sources, including:
- History and heritage
- Culture and society
- Science and technology
- Literature and the arts
- Other fields relevant to Wikimedia knowledge creation
Currently, the WikiResearch Library holds a collection of 20 books. The complete list of available materials can be found in the catalogue.
These resources support contributors in verifying information, strengthening article references, and expanding coverage of important topics across Wikimedia projects such as Wikipedia, Wikisource, and Wikidata.
Location and Management
[edit]The WikiResearch Library is located at the Wikimedia Bangladesh office in Dhaka and is managed by Wikimedia Bangladesh. The chapter oversees the development and maintenance of the collection, manages the catalogue, and administers access according to established usage policies.
Eligible Wikimedia contributors may access the library’s materials for research and content development purposes. A policy-based access system ensures the responsible use and long-term availability of the resources for the wider Wikimedia community.
Community Contribution
[edit]The development and expansion of the WikiResearch Library rely significantly on community participation and support. Books and reference materials may be contributed through donations from community members, institutions, and supporters who wish to help strengthen research resources for Wikimedia contributors.
These donated materials become part of the library’s collection and are used primarily to support research activities that enhance content across Wikimedia projects.
Book Donations
[edit]The WikiResearch Library welcomes book donations that can support research and content development across Wikimedia projects. Individuals and institutions interested in contributing to the library’s collection may follow the steps below.
- Select appropriate books
- Donated books should be research-oriented, reference-worthy, or otherwise useful for Wikimedia projects.
- Priority is given to books related to history, culture, science, dictionaries, encyclopedias, literary criticism, biographies, and other knowledge-based subjects that support reliable content development.
- Contact before donating
- Donors are requested to contact Wikimedia Bangladesh before sending books by emailing: yahya@wikimedia.org.bd.
- Registration of donated books
- Information about each donated book (such as title, author, subject, and donor name) will be recorded publicly in the library catalogue.
- Donors may request to keep their name anonymous if they prefer.
Supporting Knowledge Development
[edit]Through the WikiResearch Library, Wikimedia Bangladesh aims to build a sustainable research resource that enables contributors to produce well-referenced, reliable, and high-quality knowledge. By improving access to credible sources and encouraging responsible scholarship, the initiative contributes to the broader mission of expanding free and trustworthy knowledge for everyone.
External links
[edit]- WikiResearch Library on Wikimedia Bangladesh Wiki