Application of graph theory in the library domain—Building a faceted framework based on a literature review

Abstract

Based on a literature review, we present a framework for structuring the application of graph theory in the library domain. Our goal is to provide both researchers and libraries with a standard tool to classify scientific work, at the same time allowing for the identification of previously underrepresented areas where future research might be productive. To achieve this, we compile graph theoretical approaches from the literature to consolidate the components of our framework on a solid basis. The extendable framework consists of multiple facets grouped into five categories whose elements can be arbitrarily combined. Libraries can benefit from these facets by using them as a point of reference for the (meta)data they offer. Further work on formally defining the framework’s categories as well as on integration of other graph-related research areas not discussed in this article (e.g. knowledge graphs) would be desirable and helpful in the future.

Based on a literature review, we present a framework for structuring the application of graph theory in the library domain. Our goal is to provide both researchers and libraries with a standard tool to classify scientific work, at the same time allowing for the identification of previously underrepresented areas where future research might be productive. To achieve this, we compile graph theoretical approaches from the literature to consolidate the components of our framework on a solid basis. The extendable framework consists of multiple facets grouped into five categories whose elements can be arbitrarily combined. Libraries can benefit from these facets by using them as a point of reference for the (meta)data they offer. Further work on formally defining the framework’s categories as well as on integration of other graph-related research areas not discussed in this article (e.g. knowledge graphs) would be desirable and helpful in the future.