Beyond metadata: the future of scholarly access
Global library organisation OCLC explains why linked data is essential for research institutions
How Libraries Power Knowledge is Changing—Are You Ready?
The way information is created, shared, and discovered is undergoing a profound transformation. Libraries and academic organisations must navigate an increasingly complex data landscape—one that demands greater connectivity, interoperability, and adaptability to emerging technologies.
For decades, library metadata structures remained largely unchanged, designed for legacy systems that struggle to integrate with modern discovery platforms, AI-driven search, and evolving information networks. As global infrastructures advance, information management must evolve with them. Linked data is proving to be the key to unlocking greater efficiency, visibility, and institutional impact.
OCLC, in collaboration with Research Information magazine and West Virginia University (WVU), is leading this discussion in an upcoming webinar. Experts will explore how linked data is transforming workflows, expanding institutional reach, and strengthening scholarly access.
For academic and library leaders, this conversation is critical—a chance to explore how strategic adoption of linked data can secure institutional relevance, reputation and influence in an increasingly digital and connected world.
Why linked data matters now more than ever
Traditional data frameworks often limit the reach and accessibility of research outputs, requiring time-consuming manual updates, rigid cataloging structures, and siloed authority control.
Linked data transforms static catalog records into a dynamic, connected ecosystem. Instead of existing in isolation, metadata links to broader scholarly networks, emerging search tools, and global knowledge platforms.
The impact?
- Revolutionising Research Discovery – Breaking down silos to foster deeper insights, uncover unexpected connections, and support continuous learning. This maximises the value of collections and positions libraries at the core of knowledge creation.
- Empowering Institutional Missions – Amplifying the visibility of scholarly outputs and special collections strengthens institutional reputation, secures funding opportunities, and increases global engagement.
- Maintaining Trust in an Era of Misinformation – Reinforcing the role of libraries as trusted sources of knowledge by linking curated, authoritative records to the global information ecosystem.
- Optimising Workflows for the Future – Reducing costs, streamlining workflows, and ensuring long-term accessibility by integrating seamlessly with next-generation discovery tools.
- Bringing Hidden Collections to Light – Archives and rare materials are often hidden within traditional cataloging systems. Linked data connects them to global discovery networks, boosting institutional prestige, attracting scholars, and enabling collaboration.
- Accelerating Institutional Impact – Positioning research libraries at the forefront of digital transformation by integrating with AI-powered tools.
These shifts are not theoretical—they are happening now. The upcoming OCLC webinar will explore how linked data is already driving innovation across education institutions.
Sign up now for this essential discussion.
West Virginia University’s Linked Data Transformation
West Virginia University (WVU) is a leading example of how linked data can modernize library operations while preserving authoritative records.
By integrating linked data, WVU is:
- Enhancing the visibility of regional scholars and outputs – ensuring their work is surfaced in major search engines and discovery networks.
- Preserving and integrating legacy metadata – creating a benchmark for improving search accuracy and mitigating misinformation risks.
- Bridging the gap between traditional cataloging practices and next-generation discovery technologies – positioning WVU at the forefront of scholarly visibility.
WVU’s approach provides a roadmap for universities looking to implement similar strategies, ensuring long-term relevance in an evolving research ecosystem.
What you’ll gain from the webinar
This expert-led discussion will equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the future of discovery and data management.
- The State of Linked Data Today – What it is, why it matters, and how OCLC is helping institutions keep collections visible, trusted, and globally connected.
- The Practical Institutional Benefits – How libraries are streamlining workflows and improving cross-institutional collaboration.
- Real-World Implementation – Learn directly from West Virginia University about their success in enhancing discoverability and connecting research outputs to a global audience.
- Balancing Tradition & Innovation – How libraries can modernize discovery without compromising the authority of established practices.
- Live Interactive Q&A – This is not just a presentation—it’s a strategic conversation. Engage with speakers, ask questions, and contribute to the dialogue on the future of metadata and research accessibility.
Join the conversation – register today!
The landscape of scholarly communication is shifting—and the sector must act now to ensure their collections and outputs remain discoverable, relevant, and trusted.
This is your opportunity to gain insights, engage in strategic discussion, and prepare for what’s next.