When Will Libraries Evolve from Statistical Literacy & Data Support to Quantum Computing?
Academic libraries have long been at the forefront of research support — providing access to statistical literacy, data science, and high-performance computing (HPC). But as quantum computing emerges as a transformative force in fields like cybersecurity, cryptography, and artificial intelligence, it raises a critical question:
When will libraries evolve to support quantum computing as part of their core services?
Quantum computing is no longer just a concept—it’s here. Companies like IBM, AWS, and Google have made quantum platforms accessible, and grant agencies like NSF, DOE, and DARPA are funding quantum initiatives. Quantum advancements in post-quantum cryptography and quantum-resistant algorithms are already reshaping how we think about cybersecurity, cryptography, and critical infrastructure protection.
So, what role should libraries play in this shift?
How Libraries Can Lead the Shift from HPC to Quantum:
Libraries are uniquely positioned to support quantum computing in the same way they’ve supported HPC, machine learning, and data science. Here’s how they can lead the charge:
Access to Quantum Platforms
- Partner with platforms like IBM Quantum, AWS Braket, and Google Cirq to provide campus-wide access to quantum computing tools.
- Just as libraries license access to MATLAB, SPSS, and R, they can provide faculty and students with logins for quantum platforms and simulators.
Quantum Literacy & Training
- Develop Quantum Literacy Programs to teach faculty, staff, and students the basics of quantum computing, qubits, and quantum algorithms.
- Offer workshops on Qiskit, Cirq, and Q#, similar to how libraries currently offer training on R, Python, and Tableau.
- Introduce Cybersecurity-Specific Quantum Training, covering post-quantum cryptography and quantum-safe encryption methods.
Support for Quantum Research & Cybersecurity Algorithms
- Assist faculty and students working on quantum-safe encryption and post-quantum cryptography — key areas of focus for NSA, NIST, and DOE grants.
- Support faculty developing quantum algorithms for cybersecurity by providing access to repositories and platforms where quantum-resistant algorithms can be tested and deployed.
Data Curation & Repositories for Quantum Research
- Support FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) for quantum datasets, ensuring quantum data is properly stored, discoverable, and reproducible.
- Create a Quantum Research Repository where researchers can deposit quantum datasets, source code (e.g., Jupyter Notebooks), and reproducible workflows.
On-Campus Quantum Labs & Development Spaces
- Create a Quantum Development Lab where researchers can access quantum simulators, development environments, and platforms like Qiskit, Q#, and Cirq.
- Set up library workstations with access to high-powered quantum development tools.
Grant Support & Research Collaboration
- Serve as co-investigators on NSF, DOE, and DARPA grants to support quantum research, especially in areas like quantum cryptography and post-quantum cybersecurity.
- Provide support for Data Management Plans (DMPs) and ensure grant compliance.
Train & Hire Quantum Librarians
- Just as libraries have Data Science Librarians, they should now train Quantum Research Librarians to support this growing field.
- Quantum librarians can support students and faculty in accessing platforms, running simulations, and navigating technical quantum concepts.
Why Libraries Should Get Involved in Quantum Computing:
Cybersecurity is at Stake
Quantum computers have the potential to break classical cryptographic methods. NIST, NSA, and the global research community are working to develop quantum-resistant encryption standards. Libraries can support research into post-quantum cryptography and help faculty and students contribute to the development of new standards.
Grant-Funded Research Needs Library Support
Funding from agencies like NSF, DOE, and DARPA is driving quantum computing research. Libraries can secure roles on these grants as collaborators and data stewards for managing quantum datasets, algorithms, and reproducibility.
Libraries Have Done This Before
Libraries have already led the way in supporting HPC, cloud computing, and machine learning. The shift to quantum is not as radical as it sounds. If libraries can support R, Python, and machine learning, they can support Qiskit, Cirq, and quantum cryptography.
Workforce Development & Education
Libraries have always supported education and training. As quantum literacy becomes essential for future job markets (especially in quantum-safe cybersecurity), libraries can offer workshops, certificates, and tutorials for students and faculty.
How Libraries Can Start Today:
Partner with Quantum Platforms
Build relationships with AWS Braket, IBM Quantum, and Google Cirq. Offer campus-wide access to these platforms in the same way libraries provide access to databases, MATLAB, and other research tools.
Launch Quantum Literacy Bootcamps
Offer hands-on workshops for faculty and students on Qiskit, Q#, and Cirq. Just as libraries offer Python and data visualization bootcamps, they should offer “Quantum for Beginners” workshops.
Create a Quantum Development Lab
Set up quantum development workstations in the library with access to quantum simulators and coding environments like Qiskit, Q#, and Cirq.
Build Expertise & Hire Quantum Librarians
Train library staff or hire a Quantum Librarian. If you already have Data Science Librarians, give them a professional development path to become Quantum Research Liaisons.
Collaborate on Grants
Support faculty working on NSA and NIST-funded post-quantum cryptography projects. Libraries can offer grant support for Data Management Plans (DMPs) and serve as co-investigators on NSF and DOE grants.
Create a Research Data Repository for Quantum Research
Just as libraries host institutional repositories for datasets and open access publications, they should create a dedicated space for quantum research datasets, software, and reproducible workflows.
The Future of Libraries & Quantum
The transition from data support, to HPC to quantum computing is no longer hypothetical. Research is already happening. Students are already being trained. Cybersecurity, cryptography, and critical infrastructure protection are at stake.
Libraries can—and must—play a role. The opportunity to lead is here. Will libraries lead from the front or wait for others to act?
If you’re in libraries, higher education, or research support, I’d love to hear from you:
- Are you seeing any quantum-related initiatives at your library or university?
- What role do you think libraries should play in quantum support?
I’m committed to ensuring that libraries take an active role in shaping how AI and quantum computing converge. As quantum capabilities expand, they will supercharge AI, enabling faster model training, more complex simulations, and advances in areas like quantum machine learning (QML) and quantum neural networks. This shift will fundamentally alter how libraries support research and education. Through my work with C3 Innovation and collaboration with faculty on campus actively engaged in quantum initiatives, I’m focused on elevating quantum research and application at the institutional level. If libraries wait for these changes to arrive, they’ll be playing catch-up in a world that has already moved on. We must get on the train now by building quantum-ready infrastructures, supporting post-quantum cybersecurity, and positioning libraries as hubs for quantum-AI collaboration. By taking action today, libraries can own their future, not just react to it. This means establishing Quantum Development Labs, training Quantum Research Liaisons, and embedding libraries as core partners in NSF, DOE, and DARPA-funded AI-quantum hybrid projects. If libraries lead now, they won’t just survive the shift — they’ll define it.
