Conceptual models for comparison of digital library systems and approaches

Abstract

This document is a working paper that grew out of the discussions at the Digital Libraries joint projects meeting in Washington on Nov. 8-9, 1994. It is intended as a first rough cut at a conceptual framework for understanding the significant differences among systems and ideas, so that we can better decide where to work for interoperability and where to take complementary approaches. This is a working draft and open to discussion and debate at all levels. I had thought about trying to do it more thoroughly before distribution, but decided not to for two reasons. First, time is important -- decisions need to be made in various aspects of the digital library project that may be determined by some of these issues. Second, by leaving it as rough as it is (especially the second half) it accurately conveys the fact that it is not a polished reference source, but a set of issues to provoke relevant discussions.