Understanding Wiki Page Libraries and VIAF Identifiers
Wiki Page Libraries are relational collections of pages on wiki-based platforms, such as Wikipedia. These libraries help in organizing and linking related articles, which can enhance user experience and improve the structure and information flow within the wiki. VIAF (Virtual International Authority File) is a system used by international libraries to create unique identifiers for individuals, creative works, and subjects. When adding VIAF identifiers to pages like en.wp, librarians and editors use templates like {{authority control}} to ensure consistent and proper linking and information sharing.
The Role of Authority Control Templates in Libraries
Authority control templates are essential tools used in libraries and wiki platforms to link pages to standardized identifiers, such as VIAF. These templates help maintain consistency and ensure that cross-referencing and information accuracy are maintained. For example, when adding a VIAF identifier on en.wp, the template {{authority control}} is used. This template allows for the easy addition of details like VIAF identifiers, Library of Congress Control Numbers (LCCN), ISNI (International Standard Name Identifier), and other authoritative sources.
How to Link a Wiki Page Library to a VIAF Identifier
Linking a Wiki Page Library to a VIAF identifier involves a few key steps. First, you need to have the correct identifier (VIAF ID) for the subject or individual you wish to add. This can be found through the VIAF database or other authoritative sources. Once you have the identifier, you can follow these steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Locate the appropriate template for adding VIAF identifiers. On en.wp, the most common template used is {{authority control}}.
Step 2: Add the VIAF identifier to the page using the template. The format typically used is {{authority control| VIAF VIAF_identifier}}. For example, if the VIAF identifier is 123456789, the template would be {{authority control| VIAF 123456789}}.
Step 3: Review and save the changes to the page. After adding the template, review the page to confirm that the VIAF identifier is correctly formatted and visible. Save the page to make the changes live.
Benefits of Using Authority Control Templates
The use of authority control templates, such as {{authority control}} for linking wiki pages to VIAF identifiers, offers several benefits:
Standardization: Templates ensure that VIAF identifiers are consistently added and formatted, making it easier for users and librarians to manage and cross-reference information.
Accuracy: By linking pages to authoritative sources like VIAF, the accuracy of the information on the wiki can be improved, providing users with accurate and reliable data.
Enhanced User Experience: Well-organized and linked pages enhance the overall user experience, as users can easily find related information and verify the accuracy of the data.
Consistency: Templates promote a standardized approach across the wiki, ensuring that all pages with VIAF identifiers follow the same format and structure.
How Vital is the OCLC Database in This Process
The Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) plays a crucial role in this process as it serves as the central hub for bibliographic information and library services. OCLC provides the VIAF database, which is a critical resource for linking Wikipedia pages to authoritative identifiers. This database contains a wealth of information and is updated regularly, ensuring that the VIAF identifiers used on pages like en.wp are accurate and up-to-date.
Conclusion
Linking a Wiki Page Library to a VIAF identifier via authority control templates is a straightforward process that enhances the reliability and accuracy of information on wiki platforms. By using templates like {{authority control}}, librarians and editors can ensure that pages are properly linked to authoritative sources, improving the user experience and the overall quality of the content.