Introduction to a special issue on digital libraries and the semantic web: context, applications and research

Purpose The purpose of this article is to introduce the papers in the special issue which explores some of the potential, opportunities and challenges to be found in greater library and information science alignment with semantic web developments. Design/methodology/approach The article is a general review of the papers in the issue. Findings For many digital libraries or cultural institutions, the semantic web offers an opportunity to better expose valuable digital resources pertaining to research, culture or history, using common standards and technologies in a collaborative and “joined up” way. The papers in this issue “paint a rainbow”, exploring the issues through elements of case studies, reviews research and conceptual expositions and viewpoints. Originality/value The article emphasises how the practical implications of semantic web research or developments for digital libraries and repositories is important for LIS professionals.