An Integrated Approach to Metadata Interoperability

Abstract

Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC) is currently the most broadly used bibliographic
standard for encoding and exchanging bibliographic data. However, MARC
may not fully support representation of the dynamic nature and semantics
of digital resources because of its rigid and single-layered linear
structure. The Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records (FRBR)
model, which is designed to overcome the problems of MARC, does not
provide sufficient data elements and adopts a predetermined hierarchy.
A flexible structure for bibliographic data with detailed data elements
is needed. Integrating MARC format with the hierarchical structure of
FRBR is one approach to meet this need. The purpose of this research
is to propose an approach that can facilitate interoperability between
MARC and FRBR by providing a conceptual structure that can function
as a mediator between MARC data elements and FRBR attributes.