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Challenges and prospects of Linked Data Technology Initiative in Bangladesh Libraries

A quantitative study

Linked data, Semantic Web, Libraries in Bangladesh, Challenges and prospects.

Authors

Purpose: The primary objective of this study is to ascertain the challenges and potential advantages associated with implementing Linked Data (LD) technology in libraries in Bangladesh. This research endeavored to ascertain the perspectives of library professionals concerning the potential of LD usage in libraries, as well as the advantages and difficulties associated with implementing and utilizing LD technology in Bangladeshi libraries.

Methodology: A quantitative survey was conducted to collect data from the library professionals of some selected public university libraries in Bangladesh. The instruments used to collect data were printed questionnaires and Google Forms using convenience sampling techniques. A total of 39 responded to the survey, which was usable among the 54 responses. The response rate was 72.2%. Once the quantitative data were collected, data were transferred into IBM®SPSS® statistics for analysis.

Findings: The survey's results show that academic librarians are thoroughly aware of LD technology and believe they could have many advantages. Current research found that library professionals understand the challenges of adopting LD technologies in Bangladesh's libraries.

Research limitations/implications: This study only focuses on the challenges and perceptions of library professionals of some selected university libraries instead of LD practices in those libraries. Therefore, the results of this study are based on library professionals' perceptions, so there is a need to measure the actual application of LD technology with assessments. The findings of this study will help policymakers and information workers make well-informed choices regarding the use of LD technology in libraries. Additionally, it might prompt more study to learn about information professionals' perspectives in order to create advocacy and training programs that will support LD activities in libraries.

Originality/value: This research is the first empirical investigation of the topic within the Bangladeshi setting that the authors are aware of. It shows how the information professionals in Bangladesh see the library LD and related initiatives and the possible advantages of putting it into action. In addition, decision-makers will find this research useful since it details the potential benefits of LD technology adoption in libraries and how to build such technologies.