OWG

LRM and Ontology

Principle

OWG does not create a new ontology for intellectual works.

OWG adopts IFLA LRM and builds on existing library science rather than replacing it.

Working Model

LRM owns meaning.

OWG owns identity.

Core Entities

• Work
• Expression
• Manifestation
• Item
• Agent
• Subject

OWG identifiers may be assigned to entities represented within the LRM model.

Rationale

The hard problem is not defining what a Work is.

Libraries have spent decades refining those concepts.

The hard problem is creating durable, public, interoperable identity and reconciliation across systems.