The history of the MARC standardThe MARC format was developed to exchange bibliographic registrations. For the first few years the format was used to produce catalogue cards. The MARC format was designed and implemented many years before online catalogues and electronic publishing of bibliographic records were introduced.ISO 2709 (ISO, 1996) provides the framework for MARC, and this is visible in the MARC formats' use of three-character field codes, the use of indicators, and the use of sub-field codes. This kind of database structure is suitable for a sequential dataflow (which is exactly for what ISO 2709 was developed) in order to handle data on magnetic tapes. ISO 2709 and MARC formats can be used for data types other than bibliographic data. The format has not found much support in non-library environments, but there are many examples of library software being applied in contexts other than libraries. From the author's previous employment as a consultant for suppliers of library systems, mention can be made of alternative use of library software as a tool for case management and registration of equipment, building materials, and hardware components in a telecommunications company.There are (at least) three current schools/divisions of the MARC formats: (1) USMARC ± which became MARC21;(2) BNBMARC ± which became UKMARC; and (3) UNIMARC.There are certain similarities between UKMARC and USMARC, while the Danish format danMARC2 (Katalogdatara Êdet, 1998) has been developed from the original BNBMARC. Some years ago it was discussed whether IMARC should replace USMARC, CANMARC and UKMARC but, due to differences in the three existing formats, including the question of multi-volume works and USMARC's use of ISBD-characters as part of the record, IMARC did not replace any of the other formats.

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the Danish inter‐library lending (ILL) environment with the focus on its current status, the level of automation and future development.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes Danish ILL cooperation.FindingsFocussing on standards and automation delivers a better service. Danish ILL has a high level of automation. The combination of standards, interaction between systems and dedicated functions in the national system delivers an effective handling of ILL and document delivery.Originality/valueThis is the first paper to provide a detailed overview of the modern ILL system in Denmark.

Formålet med Biblioteksstandardisering i Danmark er at give et overblik over udvikling og implementering af standarder på biblioteksområdet i Danmark.

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the Danish agreement with OCLC's WorldCat and the perspectives for international cooperation.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes the Danish ILL cooperation, the project and WorldCat as a case study of international cooperation which will increase the effectiveness of the international ILL service.FindingsCooperation with an international organization works better when coordinated nationally.Originality/valueThe Danish agreement with OCLC covers both main activities: ILL and cataloguing – creation and use of bibliographic data.

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to show a new route for inter‐library lending (ILL) standards.Design/methodology/approachThe paper describes the Danish ILL solution, and on the basis of this, suggests a proposal for further work.FindingsFocussing on simplicity gives better service.Originality/valueThe Danish ILL implementation has a high level of automation based on simple transactions.