Platform Architecture
OCLC is working to provide machine access to many of our core services. Learn how we build our Web services, APIs and data sources.
Our Web services enable machine access to the core products and services that OCLC provides to its members, from WorldCat metadata to WorldShare systems, our suite of APIs provides a consistent developer experience.
HTTP at the core
When we design an API, we leverage HTTP to the greatest possible extent. See how our REST architectual style allows us to
- provide flexible access to response data through content negotation
- clearly communicate via codes specified by the HTTP standard
- implement clear and consistent error responses when things go wrong
- implement resource versioning according to the Web's natural architecture
Library-driven API strategy
Our Web services strategy is designed to support existing standards used by libraries and within the library industry. Where we must develop original APIs, we leverage consistent approaches to AtomPub-based web services and Linked Data to create natural integration opportunities for OCLC members and their partners.