‡biblios was originally conceived and created as an open-source, web-based metadata tool for libraries during the 2007 Google Summer of Code program. Google Summer of Code is an annual program in which Google awards stipends to hundreds of students who successfully complete a requested free software / open-source coding project during the summer[1]. The initial package and project information is available from the GSoC site.

‡biblios was first debuted at the Code4lib 2008 conference, where lead developer Chris Catalfo gave a sneak preview presentation on the technology and architecture of ‡biblios. You can view the presentation here, and some Flickr snapshots here.

‡biblios is now developed and maintained at LibLime and we're hoping to help grow an active community around the project.

Why ‡biblios?

A rich internet application

Though browser-based, ‡biblios has a very rich user interface and takes advantage of JavaScript toolkits like YUI, ExtJS, Google Gears for local storage of bibliographic records.

Built-in metasearch

Much of cataloging consists of copy-cataloging and so ‡biblios ships with built-in metasearch capability using a web services layer built on the Pazpar2 federated search library. Users can set up and perform cross-database searches on any Z39.50 targets.

Built around library standards

The ‡biblios record editor currently supports MARC21/MARCXML records and utilizes a plugin architecture to easily allow expansion to other formats such as MODS, Dublin Core, etc.

Library Standards Compliant

Built in support for MARC21, MARCXML, Z39.50

Free and Open Source

‡biblios is available under the terms of the GPL software license, which ensures free and open access to use, modification and redistribution.