Integrating Article Databases and Full Text Archives into a Digital Journal Collection

Abstract

The aim of DTV’s Article Database Service (DADS) is to offer our end users a whole new generation of library services with integrated search and browse facilities, a common user interface and direct electronic document delivery - all accessible from their own desks. The system should handle bibliographic data, including abstracts as well as articles in full text and table-of-contents data.

Using an electronic article database service users can access a particular article or journal within seconds rather than hours or days typical for paper based collections. Large collections of material can be searched simultaneously and retrieved instantly. There is also the possibility for active dissemination of information based on “interest profiles” of users, ie current awareness services.

Technical design considerations of the DADS system include:

• Integration of data (full text documents, bibliographic records and table-of-contents data) from different vendors and information sources

• Common user interface for searching and browsing

• Simultaneous searching in multiple heterogeneous databases

• Integrated ordering and delivery of documents

• Accessibility 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

• The system should be based on open standards, wherever possible

• Support of multiple hardware platforms and operating environments.

Organizing, indexing and providing access to material from different information providers becomes a major task.