FictionFinder: A FRBR-based Prototype for Fiction in WorldCat

FictionFinder was a FRBR-based prototype that provided access to over 2.9 million bibliographic records for fiction books, eBooks, and audio materials described in OCLC WorldCat.

Overview

This project applied principles of the FRBR model to aggregate bibliographic information above the manifestation level. Records were clustered into works using the OCLC FRBR Work-Set Algorithm. The algorithm collects bibliographic records into groups based on author and title information from bibliographic and authority records. Author names and titles are normalized to construct a key. All records with the same key are grouped together in a work set.

Data elements from records within a given work set are aggregated at the work level. For example, summaries, subject headings, and genre terms are selected from individual bibliographic records and presented at the work level. The resulting descriptions are often richer and more complete than the descriptions in individual bibliographic records. With the exception of cover art and literary award information, FictionFinder records are built exclusively from data elements in bibliographic and authority records.

Prototype

Records in FictionFinder were extensively indexed. You could search by author, title, ISBN, subject heading and the words in summaries. You could also search and browse by genres, characters (real & fictional), settings (real & imaginary) and literary awards.

Search results were organized by works and ranked by holdings making results sets briefer and easier to navigate. Both work and manifestation records were linked to WorldCat.org to enable users to find items of interest.

Background

FRBR (Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records) is a conceptual reference model developed by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA). The model provides "a reference point for testing the validity and robustness of extant data models and data structures. It can therefore be used to improve extant formats as well as to provide guidance for the process of developing new formats" (FRBR – Frequently Asked Questions).

This project was one of several OCLC Research projects that addressed organizing bibliographic data according to the FRBR data model. More information about FRBR and related OCLC Research projects is available on the main FRBR activity page.

Lead

Diane Vizine-Goetz

Team Members

Carol Hickey

JD Shipengrover

Roger Thompson

Harry Wagner