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Introduction to IFLA Library Reference Model

The IFLA Library Reference Model (LRM) is a high-level conceptual reference model developed by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).

Overview​

The IFLA LRM consolidates and updates three previously separate IFLA conceptual models:

  • FRBR (Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records)
  • FRAD (Functional Requirements for Authority Data)
  • FRSAD (Functional Requirements for Subject Authority Data)

Purpose and Goals​

The consolidation was designed to:

  • Resolve inconsistencies between the three separate models
  • Create a single, streamlined, and logically consistent model
  • Support use in linked data environments
  • Bring bibliographic data modeling up-to-date with current conceptual modeling practices

Development Process​

The development involved a comprehensive review of every user task, entity, attribute, and relationship from the original models. Definitions were revised and the conceptual framework was remodeled as needed to create a unified approach to bibliographic data representation.

Key Characteristics​

  • High-level conceptual model: Focuses on the essential entities and relationships in the bibliographic universe
  • Linked data ready: Designed specifically for implementation in linked data environments
  • Backward compatible: Maintains core concepts from FRBR while improving consistency
  • Comprehensive scope: Covers bibliographic records, authority data, and subject authority data

Technical Specifications​

  • Total Elements: 117
  • Namespace: http://iflastandards.info/ns/lrm/lrmer/
  • Suggested Prefix: lrmer
  • Publication Date: August 2017

Core Entities​

The LRM model includes several core entity types that form the foundation of bibliographic description:

Primary Entities​

  • Work: The intellectual or artistic content
  • Expression: The realization of a work in a specific form
  • Manifestation: The physical embodiment of an expression
  • Item: A single exemplar of a manifestation

Agent Entities​

  • Agent: Entities capable of actions (persons, corporate bodies, etc.)
  • Person: Individual human beings
  • Collective Agent: Organizations and groups

Additional Entities​

  • Nomen: Names, terms, codes, and other signs
  • Place: Locations and geographical areas
  • Time-span: Periods and dates

Implementation​

The LRM provides a framework for:

  • Cataloging practices: Guiding the creation of bibliographic records
  • System design: Informing the structure of library management systems
  • Data exchange: Supporting interoperability between different systems
  • Linked data publishing: Enabling libraries to participate in the semantic web

Next Steps​

To learn more about the specific elements and their relationships, see:

  • Elements - Detailed documentation of LRM entities, attributes, and relationships
  • Examples - Practical implementation examples and use cases

References​

This introduction is based on the official IFLA LRM documentation and the consolidation work completed by the IFLA working groups.

For the complete specification and detailed element definitions, please refer to the official IFLA Library Reference Model documentation.