Open Source Software Libraries : “Open …

Open Source Software Libraries :

“Open source software is not something to be afraid of! It’s software that you can modify, fix, add to, and distribute to others. Benefits are numerous, including having the ability to create good software that works for you and your library, all while paying a fraction of the cost that you might spend on proprietary software. This website introduces librarians to using open source software and provides tips for implementing and evaluating your transition, ideas for funding, and suggestions for open source software to use in your library.”

URL : http://ir.uiowa.edu/bsides/17/

eXtensible Text Framework (XTF) : “The …

eXtensible Text Framework (XTF) :

“The eXtensible Text Framework (XTF) is a powerful open source platform for providing access to digital content. Developed and maintained by the California Digital Library (CDL), XTF functions as the primary access technology for the CDL’s digital collections and other digital projects worldwide.”

URL : http://xtf.cdlib.org/

Developing an Institutional Repository at Southern New Hampshire University: Year One

In 2008, Southern New Hampshire University was awarded a threeyear, $500,000 national leadership grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to create a digital repository using DSpace open source software. Events from the first year of the repository’s development are presented and discussed. Key elements addressed include the challenges involved with customizing the DSpace infrastructure, creating standards for access and master files, implementing metadata standards, and developing digital preservation policies.

The value of cross-departmental participation is shown, and the importance of planning for digital preservation is presented.

URL : http://metroblogs.typepad.com/files/ditrw_16.pdf

Challenges in Sustainable Open Source: A…

Challenges in Sustainable Open Source: A Case Study :
The Archivists’ Toolkit is a successful open source software package for archivists, originally developed with grant funding. The author, who formerly worked on the project at a participating institution, examines some of the challenges in making an open source project self-sustaining past grant funding. A consulting group hired by the project recommended that — like many successful open source projects — they rely on a collaborative volunteer community of users and developers. However, the project has had limited success fostering such a community. The author offers specific recommendations for the project going forward to gain market share and develop a collaborative user and development community, with more open governance.
URL : http://journal.code4lib.org/articles/2493