Professional Training in License Term Mapping to ERM Systems

Abstract

In 2006–2007, the DLF partnered with the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) to develop and present several workshops for mapping license language to Electronic Resource Management systems. The following report reviews the strategy and results of the four workshops and includes details about the curriculum and handouts from the workshops. It also provides an evaluative summary of the outcomes, as well as recommendations for future efforts in license education and mapping. Several themes emerged from the workshops. First, mapping licenses is more difficult than it sounds, pointing to a need for simplicity in the mapping and records process. Second, there are many interpretation issues—even when the license mapped is perceived as friendly, easy, or straightforward. Third, each library faces a secondary mapping process for its own ERM implementation. Last, some data elements were identified and referred to the ERMI Steering Group for review and possible revision. The license mapping workshops also revealed an urgent need for basic licensing education. Until the education issues can be addressed, agreement on license mapping codes will be difficult to reach. This report recommends DLF partner with a major library association to address the license education needs for libraries in order to facilitate the goal of working toward a common language and mapping scheme.