The role of libraries in managing cultural heritage information". In International Conference on "Future of Libraries

The last few years there is a growing discussion about the need to effectively and efficiently manage cultural heritage information. Specifically, there is a need to describe the cultural heritage information with the use of the most relevant and efficient standards. The goal is to succeed among others, open access, storage of this information in digital format and linkage among relevant resources not necessarily found and/or owned by the same cultural heritage institution or organization. The role of libraries and especially of information professionals, is crucial in this type of research as well as of collection management and services provider.

Cultural heritage management is defined as “the vocation and practice of managing cultural heritage. It is a branch of cultural resources management (CRM), although it also draws on the practices of cultural conservation, restoration, museology, archaeology, history and architecture” (Wikipedia, 2018). Managing this type of information based on international standards and best practices allows the re-use of the information, linkage of resources to raise a better or different understanding of historical events but also assist other types of activities such as restoration, digitization, preservation etc.

This paper will focus on the role that libraries and especially information professionals play when managing cultural heritage information. Specific characteristics as well as skills that librarians need to have will be outlined. Finally, ways to collaborate in interdisciplinary projects will be described.