Starting in late 2014, the UCLA Continuing Resources Study Group began studying semantic web concepts in general and the BIBFRAME vocabulary specifically. Our goal was to understand how things would work for serials and integrating resources in the new linked data environment, to contribute to the discussion and development of linked data models for bibliographic resources, and (if possible!) to try something new. Using just a few free tools, we were able to convert records from MARC, create linked data graphs, and take the first steps in setting up a demonstration triple store.

1. Reimagining Serials: Small Steps toward a Linked Data Future
Kevin Balster
UCLA
Introduction
In fall 2014, the UCLA Continuing Resources Study
Group, fortified by several months of Linked Data
orientations, decided it was time to get our feet
wet. But with no technical support and no outside
resources, the question was: How?
Starting in OCLC, we used the normal
export function to create a .dat file,
and then used MARCEdit to convert it
into an RDF/XML file. We focused
mainly on CONSER records. Given the
complexity of most CONSER records
and our lack of knowledge regarding
BIBFRAME, we began with ELvl 8 (ISSN
Pre-Pub.) records. One member of our
study group was also interested in how
non-Roman script is represented in the
RDF graph, so she worked on
converting records for Arabic language
resources.
Next, we simply copy/pasted the RDF/XML file into the W3C RDF
Validator to produce an RDF graph. However, even using Elvl 8 records,
the graphs produced from the files could be overwhelming, so we often
edited the file in order to focus on one particular aspect of the title.
Many of our study group members did not have prior experience
working with XML files, so we developed supporting documents on
how to edit XML files while keeping the structure intact so that it would
validate correctly.
Finally, we used the RDF graph as a
starting point to explore the structure and
terms of the BIBFRAME vocabulary. As our
understanding of the BIBFRAME vocabulary
grew, we began to identify and document
questions we had regarding the vocabulary
and/or the conversion process.
Goals Next Steps???
1. Increase understanding of BIBFRAME vocabulary
and conversion process
2. Identify and document potential issues with
BIBFRAME vocabulary and conversion process
3. Collaborate with others to address possible issues
and become involved with BIBFRAME developments
1. Partner with other campus groups, including the
Hispanic American Periodicals Index (HAPI), on
Linked Data projects
2. Await outcomes of the CONSER Linked Data-Fest,
and investigate ways to collaborate with other
CONSER members on future pilot projects