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XOBIS 1.0a: The XML Organic Bibliographic Information Schema
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By ksclarke, Section Standards
Posted on Thu Oct 17th, 2002 at 08:49:45 AM EST
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The Medlane project has released an alpha version of their new library information XML schema. Named XOBIS, this schema attempts to improve access to, and navigation through, library information by reorganizing library data into modular, reusable data structures. Unlike existing literal MARC to XML conversions, XOBIS' data structures emphasize access over description. For more information, visit the XOBIS website (http://xobis.stanford.edu).
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There are many XML schemas available for modeling MARC data. Most take a literal approach, naming elements and attributes after their corresponding MARC fields, subfields, and indicators. Others represent only a small subset of the data components that libraries use to describe their resources. XOBIS attempts to walk the middle path: describe the full set of library information, but reorganize this information into a simple structure that empowers the use of library information as just one more information resource available in the digital domain.
Current cataloging data structures are flat; they are overburdened by years of change; and, they fail to recognize the intricate web of relationships that exists between their data components. In the age of modular, distributed data structures, cataloging needs a standard that will capitalize on new technological advances. The alpha version of XOBIS attempts to do just this.
The Medlane project is currently seeking comments and critiques of this alpha version. There is a XOBIS mailing list or comments can be posted here. We hope you will check the schema out and make suggestions, comments, etc.
Thanks!
This is an early announcement for the u/l/i community. Another "official" announcement will go out on the usually library mailing lists later today. |
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