FRBR, LRM and the Notion of Work

Abstract

In this chapter, IFLA's Library Reference Model (IFLA LRM), one of IFLA's emerging standards that consolidates previous standards of FRBR, FRAD and FRSAD, is discussed along with its entities and attributes. The difference between FRBR and LRM is explained. The concept of Work is also discussed in this section. Libraries and archives move from rule-based cataloguing to a framework and model-based description. Frameworks and models are abstract representations with expressive power. FRBR and LRM follow more detailed recommendations and instructions such as RDA. From RDA come specific cataloguing policies and application profiles and, finally, from application profiles, specific templates and workflows can be prepared to support dayto-day cataloguing. LRM is a conceptual model and thus can be adapted based on institutional requirements. Hence, instead of being a single universal standard, it provides a framework by defining high-level entities – consolidating the old cataloguing rules-based approach to a framework, from records to data, silos to metadata interoperability.