Creating a multipurpose digital institutional repository

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss DigitalCommons@ILR, a product of the Martin P. Catherwood Library and the School of Industrial and Labor Relations, Cornell University.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper recounts the development of DigitalCommons@ILR and examines local policies and procedures. In addition, the paper addresses the issues of choosing a institutional repository platform, creating partnership with stakeholders, and addressing staffing needs.

Findings

The paper finds that in less than two years from its inception, DigitalCommons@ILR was launched and is now providing access to nearly 2,000 documents, including access to an online journal. Partnerships and collaborations have been an essential component in the success of this product. The need for staff support to build and sustain this institutional repository was and remains vital.

Originality/value

This paper goes beyond the technical issues involved in creating an institutional repository by discussing the partnerships and staffing needs necessary to create and sustain such an endeavor.

Citation

Cohen, S. and Schmidle, D. (2007), "Creating a multipurpose digital institutional repository", OCLC Systems & Services: International digital library perspectives, Vol. 23 No. 3, pp. 287-296. https://doi.org/10.1108/10650750710776422