A RDF‐based digital library system

Abstract

Purpose

To research a resource description framework (RDF) based digital library system that facilitates digital resource management and supports knowledge management for an interoperable information environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first introduces some of issues with metadata management and knowledge management and describes the needs for a true interoperable environment for information transferring across domains. A journal delivery application has been implemented as a concept‐proof project to demonstrate the usefulness of RDF in digital library systems.

Findings

The RDF‐based digital library system at the University of Arizona Libraries provides an easy way for digital resource management by integrating other applications regardless of metadata formats and web presence.

Practical implications

A journal delivery application has been running in the RDF‐based digital library system since April 2005. An electronic theses and dissertation application will be handled by the same system.

Originality/value

The paper suggests to use RDF, the semantic web technology, as a new approach to facilitate knowledge management and metadata management. Using RDF technology brings new ways to manage and discover information for libraries.

Citation

Han, Y. (2006), "A RDF‐based digital library system", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 234-240. https://doi.org/10.1108/07378830610669600