Virtual International Authority File (VIAF)

Since 2009 the ICCU contributes to the Virtual International authority File (VIAF) by supplying SBN authority data in the UNIMARC/A format.

The VIAF combines multiple name authority files into a single OCLC-hosted name authority service. The goal of the service is to lower the cost and increase the utility of library authority files by matching and linking widely-used authority files and making that information available on the Web. All descriptions for a given entity are merged into a cluster that brings together the different names for that entity. This service allows researchers to identify names, locations, works, and expressions while preserving regional preferences for language, spelling, and script.

VIAF, implemented and managed by OCLC (Online Computer Library Center), is a joint project of various national libraries (including, among others: The Library of Congress, Die Deutsche Nationalbibliothek and La Bibliothèque Nationale de France), in cooperation with an increasing number of others libraries, catalographic agencies and other major institutions from around the world. The data of more than 40 organizations from more than 30 countries is represented in VIAF. These Contributors participate in the governance of VIAF through the VIAF Council, which provides guidance on the policies, practices, and operation of VIAF.

For further information: Flavia Bruni