Abstract

ISIS –the popular software developed at UNESCO– is a classic tool for database management. Nonetheless, in some cases the fact that it is freeware has made it seem less desireable than commercial alternatives. Although not designed as open software (despite being distributed free of charge), some modules and additional applications, such as the IsisMarc editor, have been developed using open code. IsisMarc provides an interface that is easily adapted to various MARC formats for catalog management, incorporates a Z39.50 client, and permits authority control. It can be integrated with other ISIS tools to publish databases to the web. ISIS also provides the foundation for various open software programs for library management (Catalis and OpenMarcoPolo).

Abstract

Review of major 2011 developments in the field of bibliographic cataloguing, document management and documentary languages. The use of content management systems for web publishing, the emergence of new approaches such as web experience management and the integration of web productivity components are analyzed.

Abstract

To some degree the Open Access Initiative has failed, because too few people, even in the library profession, know of its existence. More marketing should be done, thus making more people aware of it. MARC became obsolete and has to be superseded by xml-based standards. With the advent of Google, people don’t have any problems finding information. Instead they have problems knowing what to do with once they acquire it. A next generation library catalog should allow people to first find items in a library collection, and then to use the information in some way. Public libraries are devoted to their community. If they focus too much on books, then their future is less positive. If they think in terms of data, information, and knowledge, their future is only as limited as their imagination.