There was no way for us to track external hits back into our catalog or any resulting circulation. Utilizing linked data, we generated XLM code that could be embedded into internal and external websites that display curated reader's advisory content carousels. Every interaction with the carousels is recorded, including the number of hits into the catalog, giving us additional statistics in relation to the use of our data.

Developing a statistical analysis for material usage with Zepheira ultimately led to new tools helping libraries create carousels more easily. The successful implementation of linked data allows the reader's advisory project to be ongoing and proven, leading to a relationship with public television station KERA. The use of curated content has expanded over the last year to support their programming, including a second year of the Great American Read.

The amount of traffic generated because of our visibility on the web was much larger than we anticipated. Our work with KERA resulted in 9,952 views in three months, 78% of which came from KERA’s website while the other 21% from our website. From the end of June to August we saw 3,535 checkouts for Great American Read and 2,032 for the Summer Learning Challenge’s associated items. Linked data has given us a way to engage with a wider community and get a better understanding of our customers.