Digital repository implementation: a toolbox for streamlined success

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the tools and strategies that were employed by C/W MARS to successfully develop and implement the Digital Treasures digital repository.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper outlines the planning and subsequent technical issues that arise when implementing a digitization project on the scale of the large, multi‐type, automated library network. Workflow solutions addressed include synchronous online metadata record submissions from multiple library sources and the delivery of collection‐level use statistics to participating library administrators. The importance of standards‐based descriptive metadata and the role of project collaboration are also discussed.

Findings

From the time of its initial planning, the Digital Treasures repository was fully implemented in six months. The discernable and statistically quantified online discovery and access of actual digital objects greatly assisted libraries unsure of their own staffing costs/benefits to join the repository.

Originality/value

This case study may serve as a possible example of initial planning, workflow and final implementation strategies for new repositories in both the general and library consortium environment.

Citation

Bennett, M.J. (2007), "Digital repository implementation: a toolbox for streamlined success", OCLC Systems & Services: International digital library perspectives, Vol. 23 No. 3, pp. 254-261. https://doi.org/10.1108/10650750710776387