Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
sonian best practices, which require a ruler and color chart placed near each spe-
cimen during the imaging process and the inclusion of standard metadata known
as DarwinCore. Often a digital collection will require several layers of metadata in
order to make the data more discoverable.
In the emergent paradigm, original cataloging and cataloging departments are
also switching their workflow to support the need for metadata that enables retriev-
al of digital collections. The role of these information professionals involves a fo-
cus on popular metadata standards, workflow issues, the selection of digital asset
management tools, and the metadata schema that are necessary for managing re-
search data. These organizers of information in the digital age discuss metadata-
related issues in order to make decisions that support the building of local research
collections, adding to the increasing opportunities for information professionals to
collaborate across agencies or institutional departments.
Emergent Paradigm Functions of Information
The onset of new technologies has many people changing how they commu-
nicate. Information professionals who once relied on correspondence through the
mail (U.S. postal service, overnight mail, and e-mail) have benefited from the in-
creasing speed of communication, improving the productivity of many information
professionals. With the reality that communication can be sent and received so
quickly, there has been an increase in decision-making and project results. Some
will even send a text to alert a colleague to check their e-mail so that the response
rate can be expedited. Others are using social media to spread the word about
their individual scholarship or organization's work.
As the complex nature of our society increases, the functions of research, edu-
cation, culture, information, recreation, and organization of information have con-
tinued to blur in the emergent paradigm. Overlaps among the functions are oc-
curring. What does this blurring look like? Imagine watching a YouTube video and
learning to become a better chess player, then challenging Uncle Joe to a rematch
the next time he is in town. This example is a cross between the education function
and the recreation function. The lines are blurred.
For a large-scope example, let's examine the century-old University of Wyom-
ing Wool Laboratory Collection that was housed in the College of Agriculture
until the donation of its papers, publication library, resource materials, and fleece
samples to the university library system. The Wool Team put together a plan to
process or curate the donation by working across library departmental lines. The
content in the wool collection overlaps information functions.
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