Sharon Farnel (a University of Alberta academic librarian, SLIS sessional and Phd Student) is actively engaged in the U of A Libraries involvement in a collaboration called the Canadian Linked Data Initiative (CLDI). Working together and with partners in Canada, US, and Europe the goal is to provide a path to linked data readiness for our institutions and leadership for the adoption of linked data by libraries across Canada. CLDI applied for a SSHRC grant to enable two SLIS students from each of UBC, UA and UToronto to attend a Canadian Linked Data Summit. The application was successful. Sam Hamilton and Kelly LeBlanc, two of our SLIS students who have an interest in metadata and linked data, were invited to gain experience working in areas where linked data is coming to the fore. Here is the students' first-hand account of their experience.
The University of Alberta Libraries, along with other institutions, have been working on collaborative efforts to increase knowledge, understanding, and projects around the linked data initiative. The Canadian Linked Data Summit, held in Montreal (October 24-26, 2016) provided interactive and networking based professional experience in tandem with learning about the developments of linked data. It was an honour for us to be asked to attend the CLDS and grow our knowledge in an emerging data field such as Linked Data. This opportunity provided insight into a remarkable field that "links" resources through a highly evolved standard. Our resulting growth of knowledge had inherent value in reinforcing both career and research interests.
We found the professional engagement aspect quite fortuitous. Attending this conference highlighted the importance of inter-institutional and international cooperation, with representatives from Canadian English and French university libraries, from the US, and even from France present at the Summit. We were able to network with other library students from around Canada and learn about their programs and work collaborations. In addition to international networking, interpersonal networking was highlighted, for example, through a research connection exploring facets of World War I. Via a collaborative effort, it is possible for both parties to assist the other through a linked data initiative (e.g. linking soldiers [name and face] to their publically available corresponding resources/documents). Thus, we have learned that Linked Data is not only multifaceted, but also holds multi-disciplinary relevance. In a field where professional networking is both an asset to the University of Alberta and our partner institutions, it was a highly rewarding experience to be able to actively contribute to forging these partnerships.
SLIS extends its gratitude to the U of A Libraries for making this experience available to our students. It is much appreciated - and for the public good!