T A B L E   O F   C O N T E N T S
N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R   2 0 1 0
Volume 16, Number 11/12

doi:10.1045/november2010-contents
ISSN: 1082-9873

Continuing publication of D-Lib Magazine is made possible by the D-Lib Alliance.

E D I T O R I A L

The Future Isn't What It Used To Be
by Laurence Lannom, Corporation for National Research Initiatives

A R T I C L E S

Taming the Metadata Beast: ILOX
Article by David Massart and Elena Shulman, European Schoolnet (EUN), Belgium; Nick Nicholas, Australian National Data Service (ANDS), Australia; Nigel Ward, eResearch Lab, the University of Queensland, Australia; Frédéric Bergeron, TELUQ, Canada

Abstract: We propose a framework for organizing multiple metadata specifications in a container that can be handled as a whole. This framework, named Information for Learning Object eXchange (ILOX), is developed as part of the IMS Learning Object Discovery & Exchange (LODE) specification that aims to facilitate the discovery and retrieval of learning objects stored across more than one collection. While thus far ILOX has been demonstrated to resolve a number of challenges specific to the e-learning domain, it is a generic framework that can be profiled to organize metadata about any type of digital content.

PDF/A: A Viable Addition to the Preservation Toolkit
Article by Daniel W. Noonan, The Ohio State University Archives; Amy McCrory and Elizabeth L. Black, Ohio State University Libraries

Abstract: PDF/A, the archival version of the PDF file format, is an International Standards Organization (ISO) vetted, open source tool that can be added to the librarian's and archivist's preservation toolkit. This article describes the format itself, the lessons learned as the authors investigated the tools readily available for creating PDF/A files and the design of the pilot to test implementation of the use of the format in The Ohio State University's repository, the Knowledge Bank. Further, we identify issues in conversion of diverse original formats; strategies for time-saving batch conversion; and considerations in deciding whether to attempt full or partial compliance with the standard.

Trends in Large-Scale Subject Repositories
Article by Jessica Adamick and Rebecca Reznik-Zellen, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Abstract: Noting a lack of broad empirical studies on subject repositories, the authors investigate subject repository trends that reveal common practices despite their apparent isolated development. Data collected on year founded, subjects, software, content types, deposit policy, copyright policy, host, funding, and governance are analyzed for the top ten most-populated subject repositories. Among them, several trends exist such as a multi- and interdisciplinary scope, strong representation in the sciences and social sciences, use of open source repository software for newer repositories, acceptance of pre- and post-prints, moderated deposits, submitter responsibility for copyright, university library or departmental hosting, and discouraged withdrawal of materials. In addition, there is a loose correlation between repository size and age. Recognizing the diversity of all subject repositories, the authors recommend that tools for assessment and evaluation be developed to guide subject repository management to best serve their respective communities.

Federated Content Rights Management for Research and Academic Publications Using the Handle System
Article by Guo Xiaofeng and Li Ying, Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China, and Sam X. Sun, Corporation for National Research Initiatives

Abstract: We report on a prototype project for a content rights registration and discovery service in China. It takes a federated approach to a content rights registration and discovery service framework that will be simple to operate and manage by individual publishers and content distributors, yet sharing a common service interface to ensure interoperability as well as open access to the general public.

O P I N I O N

The Strongest Link: Libraries and Linked Data
Opinion by Gillian Byrne and Lisa Goddard, Memorial University Libraries, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

Abstract: Since 1999 the W3C has been working on a set of Semantic Web standards that have the potential to revolutionize web search. Also known as Linked Data, the Machine-Readable Web, the Web of Data, or Web 3.0, the Semantic Web relies on highly structured metadata that allow computers to understand the relationships between objects. Semantic web standards are complex, and difficult to conceptualize, but they offer solutions to many of the issues that plague libraries, including precise web search, authority control, classification, data portability, and disambiguation. This article will outline some of the benefits that linked data could have for libraries, will discuss some of the non-technical obstacles that we face in moving forward, and will finally offer suggestions for practical ways in which libraries can participate in the development of the semantic web.

C O N F E R E N C E   R E P O R T

Preliminary Report on the 2010-2011 DigCCurr Professional Institute: Curation Practices for the Digital Object Lifecycle
Conference Report by Kaitlin Light Costello and Michael E. Brown, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Library and Information Science

Abstract: DigCCurr II: Extending an International Digital Curation Curriculum to Doctoral Students and Practitioners hosted the first session of the second Professional Institute at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill from May 17-21, 2010. The Institute, taught by international digital curation experts, is designed to foster skills, knowledge, and community-building among professionals responsible for the curation of digital materials. It includes a week-long component, online interaction and support, and a two-day in-person follow-up session to be held January 5-6, 2011. This preliminary report discusses the week-long session of the second of three Professional Institutes.

N E W S   &   E V E N T S

In Brief: Short Items of Current Awareness

In the News: Recent Press Releases and Announcements

Clips & Pointers: Documents, Deadlines, Calls for Participation

Meetings, Conferences, Workshops: Calendar of activities associated with digital libraries research and technologies

F E A T U R E D   D I G I T A L
C O L L E C T I O N

Launched in 1999, WebExhibits is an interactive, online museum of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, humanities, and culture. The site is visited nearly nine million times each year.

One of the first online museums, WebExhibits draws and taps into experts' knowledge and takes advantage of current technologies to create a rich, immersive experience that incorporates narratives, descriptions, maps, photos, video, and audio.

Each exhibit creates a broad overview and then provides detailed information about the topic being explored. This information, along with interactive virtual experiments and hands-on activities, prompts site visitors to think, to formulate questions, and to view topics from a variety of angles. In addition to spurring the informal learning process, WebExhibits also supports structured educational efforts.

Users are encouraged to contribute to existing exhibits or to create new exhibits, and guidelines for doing so are available at the WebExhibits site.

D - L I B   E D I T O R I A L   S T A F F

Laurence Lannom, Editor-in-Chief
Catherine Rey, Managing Editor
Bonita Wilson, Contributing Editor

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