THE INTERNET

Institutional repositories (IRs) provide storage and access to digitally produced scholarship. In order to improve storage and access to these materials, it is important for the creators to describe the contents adequately. Following generally accepted best practices in terms of file formats is encouraged, as is providing basic metadata about the content of the items. Some of the benefits of utilizing IRs include the provision of unique identifiers for digital projects and files, institutional commitment to preserving the files, and increased access through metadata protocols. Collaboration between creators and librarians is encouraged to ensure that standards are followed when appropriate, and that metadata is of the highest quality to ensure good preservation and access to the content.