WHY RDA? ORGANIZING BIBLIOGRAPHIC INFORMATION IN THE 21ST CENTURY [ARTICLE]

Abstract

Resource Description and Access (RDA) is an international metadata standard designed to enable the discovery of library and cultural heritage resources in both traditional and linked data environments. RDA presents a new way of thinking about bibliographic information. RDA takes the focus of creating metadata to fulfill a user’s needs during the resource discovery process. It also breaks down strings of bibliographic information into entities and elements so that this information can be reliably processed as data by computers. RDA is based on a theoretical framework aligned with the internationally accepted bibliographic conceptual model, IFLA LRM; it is designed as a standard for the digital environment; it is developed as a global standard appropriate for use in many contexts. The scope of RDA has been broadening in response to international interest in the standard. The content of the standard is designed to be flexible, to offer choices and accommodate diverse practices. It has been deliberately designed to support use by an international audience. Using the same international standard also increases data interoperability around the globe. The governance structure has also been revised to support increased international participation in RDA development. This paper gives an overview of key features of RDA and outlines its impact on the usability and visibility of library bibliographic data. While many still operate in traditional cataloguing environments, RDA prepares us for the future environments in which libraries will function. ..