heiANNO – The Heidelberg Annotation Module

In-house developed, node.js-based annotation module based on the current specifications of the Web Annotation Data Model.

Range of functions

  • Can be integrated into any publication system
  • Semantic annotation and commenting of digital objects, e.g. at volume and page level (including sub-areas) of digitised works
  • ‘Micro-publications’ possible, as well as short additions, comments, tagging of objects or links between objects
  • Full compatibility with the Web Annotation Data Model
  • Mention of the author, publication date
  • Citation capability (DOI), cataloguing in the library catalogue if applicable
  • Versioning
  • Free text annotations + typed links (relationships based on Dublin Core and LiDO)
  • Integration of standardised vocabulary (GND, etc.) for keyword indexing/tagging
  • Mapping of discussion threads, replies/comments on annotations possible
  • Sophisticated rights system (e.g. regarding the creation or editing (with new version) of annotations or commenting on existing annotations, as well as registering DOIs.
  • Optional: moderation function
  • Indexing of image details via zone editor:
    • Any number of details within an image can be intellectually precisely marked, annotated and commented on
    • One or more zones (rectangles, polygons, circles, ellipses, etc.) are assigned to an annotation (selection of non-contiguous areas also possible)
    • Annotated image sections are available via IIIF
  • Addressing text areas via fragment identifiers
  • RSS feed of new annotations
  • Support for ‘multi-target annotations’: An annotation can refer to several digital objects and thus link them
  • Support for annotating with the option to create templates and drafts

Technology used

  • Node.js
  • PostgreSQL
  • Docker
  • Zone editor based on heiImageViewer (OpenLayers application)
  • Selectors:  
    • The SVG selector (Web Annotation Data Model) is used to address image zones.
    • Text areas (e.g. paragraphs or verses) are addressed using the fragment identifier selector
    • Further selectors are in development
  • Templates and drafts are managed via the WebDAV protocol

Examples of the use of heiANNO

Table

Comment function eBOOKS
Comment function eJournals