Thank you to everyone who attended the IG's session at the Annual and participated in the lively discussion on the ongoing shift from MARC to Linked Data (LD)! We had a great turnout, with seven round tables, each hosting about 10 people. Special thanks to Amanda Z. Xu from the National Agricultural Library for showcasing BIBFRAME in production and discovery. The session slides are attached.
Here are some highlights from our discussions:
- Challenges in transitioning from MARC to BIBFRAME (or a LOD Environment):
- Cataloging and Entity Management/ Authority Control: Concerns about potential data loss and authority control issues when moving to linked data,
- Data Conversion Concerns: Addressing vocabulary and data conversions, and prioritizing these conversions in current systems.
- Granularity and Training: The need for more granular data and the challenges of training catalogers to adapt to new systems.
- Technical Limitations: Technical issues related to implementing linked data and its integration with existing systems.
- Accessibility: Considerations for making catalogs accessible, including interactions with screen readers and other assistive technologies.
- Hybrid Environment:
- Historical Context: The transition is compared to past changes, such as moving from card catalogs to digital systems.
- A Gradual Process: Implementing and transitioning to linked data involves significant resources and effort. Many libraries already use linked data in various capacities, but moving entirely away from MARC is seen as a gradual process.
- Hybrid Environment: Libraries are expected to remain in a hybrid state for some time, akin to past transitions like from card catalogs to electronic systems.
- Data Discovery
- Discovery Challenges: Managing both MARC and linked data involves complex querying and integration challenges. There's concern about the necessity of a common denominator if sophisticated querying like SPARQL isn't supported.
- Discovery Potential: Emphasis on showcasing the benefits of linked data for discovery rather than focusing solely on potential drawbacks.
- Vendor Role: Key vendors will play a crucial role in the successful implementation of linked data frameworks like Sinopia.
- Promise: Linked data offers potential benefits for data visualization and distribution, which could enhance research and user experience.
- Ongoing Development: Continued experimentation and development are expected, with hopes for more effective products and knowledge graphs in the near future.
The discussion reflects both the potential advantages of linked data and the practical challenges involved in its adoption and integration with current systems.
Thank you for your interest! We look forward to seeing you at future programs.
ALA Core MARC Formats Transition Interest Group Co-Chairs
Sai Deng (sai.deng@ucf.edu, 2023/2024-2024/2025)
Keiko Suzuki (suzukik@newschool.edu, 2022/2023-2023/2024)
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Sai Deng
Metadata Librarian
University of Central Florida
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