The transformation of digital libraries from text repositories to semantic digital libraries

Abstract

The article describes the evolution of digital libraries from text repositories to second-generation libraries. This kind of library uses service-oriented architecture, P2P networks, and Grid, and is characterized by the integration of documents coming from different institutions, as well as by the possibility of federated search within multiple digital libraries. The author then takes into consideration the peculiarities of last generation digital semantic libraries, i.e. the application of the fundamentals of the Semantic Web – RDF and ontologies – and the use of collaborative filtering systems. In the final part, the article outlines some critical issues in the DELOS digital library reference model, and the need for semantically rich metadata to support the research needs of users, especially the ones in the field of the Human Sciences.