Use of Community Metadata: Public Policy Research in PolicyArchive

Abstract

PolicyArchive collects public policy research from over 700 known research publishers and makes these documents accessible in a navigable digital library. The contributions of thousands of publications from these providers enables in-depth secondary source materials to be utilized by policymakers, legislators, foundations, scholars, journalists, and educators. The functionality of this digital repository is discussed, including the use of terminologies, subject navigability, and Special Collections. PolicyArchive presents unique content with structured metadata which is openly accessible; the application of these principles not only provides coordinated access to previously unavailable resources, but also allows the reader to place a given document in multiple contexts. Analysis of this information environment illuminates ongoing digital library initiatives regarding the creation of navigable, accessible learning resources.