Repository Migration to Bepress from DSpace for Stony Brook University

This presentation outlines Stony Brook University Libraries’ comprehensive migration project from the legacy DSpace repository to the Bepress Commons platform. Led by Project Manager Uday Karki with support from team members Victoria Pilato and John Fitzgerald, the initiative represents a major step toward modernizing the university’s digital collections infrastructure.

The migration offers numerous advantages, including a centralized and cloud-based platform for local collections, ADA compliance, and streamlined authentication via Single Sign-On (NetID). Additional benefits include improved analytics and interactive download maps to track engagement and usage trends.

The project is structured in three phases. Phase 1 focused on designing the Bepress hierarchy, mapping metadata, and extracting source data. Phase 2 involved reviewing and editing collection spreadsheets, performing batch uploads via Excel, verifying the migrated content, updating URLs across various systems, including Alma, WordPress, and LibGuides, and providing training to staff. Phase 3, centers on final transitions, such as notifying the State University of New York Office of Library and Information Services (SUNY OLIS) for DSpace removal, establishing URL redirects, updating local Handle server data, and ensuring seamless integration with Primo’s Discovery Search.

Throughout the process, the team has navigated challenges and delays related to taxonomy restructuring, metadata mapping, and upload limitations, collaborating closely with Bepress and collection stakeholders’ support to resolve them. This project exemplifies innovation, accessibility, and collaboration in advancing digital scholarship and institutional repository services at Stony Brook University.