Summary

This proposal has described a high-impact research and demonstration project that will assist libraries, system vendors, and others to improve access to information and resource sharing through the use of the national and international standard protocol for information retrieval, Z39.50. The challenges of effective information retrieval in the networked environment are not intractable. We have tools, technologies, and knowledge to address these challenges. This project brings these together-in a collaborative effort-to develop methods, techniques, and metrics for testing semantic interoperability between trusted reference Z39.50 implementations and Z39.50 products available in the marketplace.

Focused research that articulates the issues and solution paths for semantic interoperability will immediately benefit the national library community. The effects of this project can also influence other communities who are investing in Z39.50 solutions for search and retrieval of digital information resources, particularly museums and digital library efforts.

The Principal Investigator has developed a strong commitment for this project among various Z39.50 stakeholders. He has secured third-party contributions totaling nearly $200,000 for this project. His parent institution is contributing nearly one-third of the funds requested from IMLS. IMLS funding is the lever that can activate these resources.

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Project Proposal Pages

Contents of Project Proposal - Abstract - Statement of the Problem - Project Goals and Objectives - Background for the Study - Need and Justification- Project Foci and Activities - Impact and Benefits of the Project - Project Deliverables - Project Staff - Addressing IMLS Priorities and Criteria - National Impact - Adaptability - Design - Management Plan - Budget - Personnel - Evaluation - Dissemination - Contributions - Sustainability and Technical Knowledge -Summery- References

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