What comes next: understanding BIBFRAME

Abstract

Purpose Bibliographic framework initiative (BIBFRAME) is a data model created by the Library of Congress to with the long-term goal of replacing Machine Readable Cataloging (MARC). The purpose of this paper is to inform catalogers and other library professionals why MARC is lacking in the needs of current users, and how BIBFRAME works better to meet these needs. It will also explain linked data and the principles of Resource Description Framework, so catalogers will have a better understanding of BIBFRAME’s basic goals. Design/methodology/approach The review of recent literature in print and online, as well as using the BIBFRAME editor to create a BIBFRAME record, was the basis for this paper. Findings The paper concludes the user experience with the library catalog has changed and requires more in-depth search capabilities using linked data and that BIBFRAME is a first step in meeting the user needs of the future. Originality/value The paper gives the reader an entry point into the complicated future catalogers and other professionals may feel trepidation about. With a systematic walkthrough of the creation of a BIBFRAME record, the reader should feel more informed where the future of cataloging is going.