Štefan Masič and Maja Pušnik

ABSTRACT
The paper is based on a systematic literature review (SLR) and the presentation of a micro-timeline as a practical tool. It examines the role of academic libraries as a factor of digital inclusion in the context of research data management in small research environments. It highlights how libraries contribute to reducing the digital divide through services, training, and locally adapted strategies, enabling researchers to engage with open science principles even in resource-limited settings.