Exploring linked data benefits for digital library users

Abstract

Linked open data technologies seem likely to offer significant benefits for digital library users. So far, however, these benefits remain largely speculative despite growing momentum toward the application of linked data in libraries. This paper reports on an exploratory user study to evaluate the use of linked data with digital library special collections. This pilot study assessed features designed to contextualize search results and representations of primary sources, and features that leverage linked data to offer analytic insights. Digital library users were most excited by applications of linked data that provide new, analytic information, and which simultaneously serve to open up new avenues for research within and beyond individual collections.

Name and Subject Heading Reconciliation to Linked Open Data Authorities using Virtual International Authority File and Library of Congress Linked Data Service APIs: A Case Study featuring Emblematica Online

“…The application of LOD features to library collections and resources both increases the visibility of these resources on the web and provides end users with enhanced representations of primary sources, search results, and analytic information for research, especially within digital library special collections. 8 As application of LOD gains momentum in libraries, it is important to recognize the essential role of metadata reconciliation as part of planning and implementing LOD within libraries.…”