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The purpose of this paper is to investigate web services (in the form of parameterised URLs), specifically in the context of the ScotlandsPlaces project. This involves cross‐domain querying, data retrieval and display via the development of a bespoke XML standard rather than existing XML formats and mapping between them.

In looking at the different heritage domain datasets as well as the metadata formats used for storage and data exchange, the ScotlandsPlaces XML format is revealed as the most appropriate for this type of project. The nature of the project itself and the need for dynamic web services are in turn explored.

It was found that, due to the nature of the project, the combination of a bespoke ScotlandsPlaces XML format and a set of matching web services was the best choice in terms of the retrieval of different domain datasets, as well as the desired extensible nature of the project.

It may have proven useful to investigate the datasets of more ScotlandsPlaces partners, but as yet only a limited number of first phase partners' datasets could be studied, as the second phase of the project has yet to begin.

Rather than an information portal, the ScotlandsPlaces web site aggregates disparate types of record, whether site records, archival or otherwise, into a single web site and makes these records discoverable via geographical searching. Aggregated data are accessed through web service queries (using a bespoke XML format developed specifically for the project for data return) and allow partner organisations to add their datasets regardless of the organisational domain. The service also allows spatially referenced records to be plotted on to a geo‐browser via a KML file, which in turn lets users evaluate the results based on geographical location.

The purpose of this paper is to develop an understanding of the issues surrounding the cataloguing of maps in archives and libraries. An investigation into appropriate metadata formats, such as MARC21, EAD and Dublin Core with RDF, shows how particular map data can be stored. Mathematical map elements, specifically co‐ordinates, are explored as a source of optimal retrieval.

This paper is based on both the personal experiences of map cataloguers as well as previous literature on map retrieval elements, metadata formats and map retrieval systems.

The difficulties behind map cataloguing do not lie in metadata file formats but rather in maps themselves, staff and budget. They also lie in the lack of map‐appropriate retrieval systems and the lack of co‐ordinate search capabilities.

The practical implications of this work reflect the necessity for strong map‐retrieval systems and strength of available metadata formats to store essential map data for retrieval. Future map cataloguers should secure appropriate systems for retrieval and include geographical location information, specifically numerical co‐ordinates.

This paper provides insight into current issues in map data and the file formats currently used for storing this data. It also investigates current map‐friendly systems in use by libraries and archives.

The following bibliography focuses mainly on programs which can run on IBM microcomputers and compatibles under the operating system PC DOS/MS DOS, and which can be used in online information and documentation work. They fall into the following categories: