One process to rule them all? The role of a repository platform in the management of digitized cultural heritage at the National Library of Finland

Although repositories are generally associated with green open access and research publications, they are commonly used for the storing and dissemination of other kinds of materials as well. Many organizations dealing with scholarly publications also have extensive collections of cultural heritage materials. The National Library of Finland is no exception.

In this paper we look at some of the strengths and limitations of DSpace repository platform from the point of view of digitized cultural heritage collections. We argue that the repository should not be seen as a standalone system, but as part of a larger organization-wide system infrastructure. When digitization is being done at a mass scale, it is essential to have well-planned processes for the dissemination of metadata and digital files from one system to another. We highlight some of the challenges the National Library is facing on its road towards better interoperability and integration.