Retrieval

Retrieving an object in LIBSAFE is achieved by getting a copy of the preserved object, with a structure set by its DIP (diffusion information package). In LIBSAFE, the DIP for an object specifies a copy identical to that of the original object, adding two XML files with information on its structure. Where the term ‘identical’ means:

• Exactly identical, if there has been no evolution of dataformat of the object, and no digital signature has been added.

• Exactly identical, but adding new signature information, if the files of the object needed to be resigned because of the expiration of their original signatures.

• Similarly identical, if it was necessary to evolve any of the files of the object due to expiration of their dataformats. The only change would be this evolution, always performed according to need. Normally, a file will transform into another single file, although there is also the possibility that a transformed file may generate multiple files.

Note: In LIBSAFE, retrieve for users are always done locating the object first, through the catalog functionality or in the object detail view.

While through the catalog we can only perform a full retrieve of one or several objects, from the object detail we can select files or directories of an object to be retrieved (with the possibility of not always having to retrieve the full object).

The Retrieve jobs section is accessible through the main menu, by means of the Retrieve link. Said link will not show until the system contains objects which may be retrievable.

Just as in the general screens, this screen shows the requested (under execution), done and finished with error jobs.

Every retrieve job places a copy of the objects (a complete object) or files (parts of the object) requested in a temporary folder. The folder will keep open access from the moment the job is done. The retrieve folders follow a naming pattern with a sequential index, where the sequence shares the same number with the same retrieve job; for instance, \\LIBSAFEserver\RET0000023.

The list of finished jobs shows the Clear button, which lets us eliminate the retrieve folder and the content in it. We can use it once we have completed the required use of the folder.

Important: we have to keep in mind that retrieve jobs take up a lot of the available space in LIBSAFE’s temporary storage area (exchange area). That is why various jobs should not accumulate there indefinitely, without deleting the content. That is, the retrieve area should NOT be used as a storage, preservation or dissemination space.

Generation of retrieve jobs is limited in size and number of objects. We can then distinguish users’ retrieval of objects from a massive retrieval requiring some planning.

Hence, the Retrieve all objects in the system option is only available with a specific permission, and we advise to grant such permission cautiously. This action will have to be executed only if we can ensure there is sufficient available space in the exchange area for the totality of the system’s objects, which in itself is a special condition that we recommend to be subject to prior consultation with LIBSAFE’s consultants.