CollectionBuilder-CONTENTdm: Developing a Static Web ‘Skin’ for CONTENTdm-based Digital Collections

Abstract

Unsatisfied with customization options for CONTENTdm, librarians at University of Idaho Library have been using a modern static web approach to creating digital exhibit websites that sit in front of the digital repository. This "skin" is designed to provide users with new pathways to discover and explore collection content and context. This article describes the concepts behind the approach and how it has developed into an open source, data-driven tool called CollectionBuilider-CONTENTdm. The authors outline the design decisions and principles guiding the development of CollectionBuilder, and detail how a version is used at the University of Idaho Library to collaboratively build digital collections and digital scholarship projects.