Linked Data: Implementation, Use, and Perceptions across European National Libraries.

Cagnazzo, Laura Linked Data: Implementation, Use, and Perceptions across European National Libraries., 2017 Master of Science thesis, University of Strathclyde (Glasgow, UK). [Thesis]

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English abstract

This dissertation focused on the investigation of the implementation and use of linked data across national libraries in Europe. Considering the increasing weight that the ‘Semantic Web’ discussion has been gaining on the international scene over the past decade or so, it was deemed necessary undertaking a study to understand the role that libraries are playing in such context. The selection of the research sample fell on national libraries, as organisations invested with the responsibility of leading and shaping the development of the cultural heritage network of their own country. The aim of the research is to deliver a comprehensive picture of the current state of linked data implementation in Europe, gathering information on reasons, purposes, and uses of this technology, together with perceptions on related benefits and challenges as per the experience of the information professionals involved in the implementing process. What emerged from this study is a strong need to spread the awareness of the Semantic Web potential within the library environment. Although various institutions have applied linked data to their resources, they are still in the minority, and a considerable lack of expertise has been identified. Some of the projects achieved have showed the advantages that linked data can deliver in terms of augmenting the visibility and discoverability of library data, alongside with overcoming linguistic barriers, and supporting interoperability. However, several issues still remain unsolved, requiring the efforts of further research. Whilst the early implementers bewailed a lack of guidelines and tools to assist their first steps, the situation has started to change, with an increasing number of vendors and developers contributing to the Semantic Web advancement. Nonetheless, libraries clearly expressed the demand for positive and successful cases of linked data use, that can best support and motivate their choice of adhering to the web of data principles.

Item type:	Thesis (UNSPECIFIED)
Keywords:	Semantic web, linked data, national libraries, metadata, W3C, library data
Subjects:	L. Information technology and library technology > LZ. None of these, but in this section.
Depositing user:	Laura Cagnazzo
Date deposited:	24 Nov 2017 14:23
Last modified:	24 Nov 2017 14:23
URI:	http://hdl.handle.net/10760/32004

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