New web application and set of APIs help
libraries benefit from and contribute to a scalable, sustainable
network of authority linked data
DUBLIN,
Ohio, May 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --
Introducing OCLC Meridian, a web application and set of APIs
that libraries and other organizations that manage metadata for
knowledge collections can use to create, curate, and connect linked
data entities. Published in WorldCat Entities, this linked data is
then available for use across a wide variety of services, systems,
and data sets to connect to other knowledge streams where people
search for information.
OCLC Meridian enables the creation of
linked data entities from within libraries' current workflows
Meridian enables the creation of linked data entities and
descriptive relationships from within libraries' current workflows,
forming connections to existing bibliographic records and other
datasets in the global information ecosystem. Through these
connections, WorldCat Entities data improves library discovery,
findability, and relevance across the web.
This new service allows libraries and other organizations
managing metadata to contribute to a shared linked data
infrastructure. Libraries can contribute at their own pace and
without disruptions to their current workflows.
"The launch of Meridian represents a fundamental step forward in
the transition from MARC-based cataloging to linked data services,"
said Mary Sauer-Games, OCLC Vice
President, Global Product Management. "Libraries of all types and
sizes can benefit from and contribute to a scalable, sustainable
network of authority linked data. The Meridian application and APIs
will provide libraries with the tools they need to see for
themselves how linked data can improve library discoverability and
relevance for users."
With Meridian comes a suite of APIs that enables users to create
and curate linked data at scale; find identifiers from different
library sources (such as VIAF, ISNI, ORCID, ROR, etc.) as well as
identifiers in general purpose knowledge graphs (such as Wikidata,
or MusicBrainz); learn of changes to WorldCat Entities data; and
retrieve subsets of pre-scripted linked data relationships for use
in local discovery applications.
The release of Meridian is a key milestone in OCLC's long-term
linked data strategy. Evolving library data into linked data frees
the knowledge in library collections and connects it to the
knowledge streams that inform our everyday lives—on the web,
through smart devices, and using technologies like artificial
intelligence (AI). Linked data facilitates greater
contextualization of information, makes resources more
discoverable, provides opportunities to improve workflows, and
supports easier integration of library data into other systems and
services.
Meridian is available globally as a standalone subscription or
as a complement to a cataloging subscription, providing libraries
of all types and sizes the opportunity to benefit from and
contribute to a scalable, sustainable network of authority linked
data through WorldCat Entities.
Visit oc.lc/meridian for more information.
About OCLC
OCLC is a nonprofit global library organization that
provides shared technology services, original research, and
community programs so that libraries can better fuel learning,
research, and innovation.
For more information: Contact Bob Murphy at
murphyb@oclc.org or +1-614-761-5136
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SOURCE OCLC