# harvester

> software that collects metadata packages from remote locations that describe information resources available at those locations

**Wikidata**: [Q123916931](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q123916931)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/harvester-q123916931

## Summary
Harvester is software that collects metadata packages from remote locations to describe information resources available at those locations. It is a non-tangible executable component of a computer, designed to gather and organize metadata for digital libraries and information systems.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Software, a non-tangible executable component of a computer.
- **Described at URL**: [Glossary of Digital Library Terms](https://cdlib.org/resources/technologists/glossary-of-digital-library-terms/#H) (English, last updated 2023-12-19).
- **Primary function**: Collects metadata packages from remote locations to describe available information resources.
- **Wikidata description**: "Software that collects metadata packages from remote locations that describe information resources available at those locations."

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of harvester software?
A: Harvester software is designed to collect metadata packages from remote locations, describing the information resources available at those locations. It is used in digital libraries and information systems to organize and retrieve metadata efficiently.

### Q: Where can I find more information about harvester?
A: Detailed information about harvester can be found in the [Glossary of Digital Library Terms](https://cdlib.org/resources/technologists/glossary-of-digital-library-terms/#H), which provides a definition and context for its use.

### Q: Is harvester a type of software?
A: Yes, harvester is classified as software, specifically a non-tangible executable component of a computer designed for metadata collection.

## Why It Matters
Harvester plays a crucial role in digital libraries and information systems by automating the collection of metadata from remote locations. This software ensures that information resources are accurately described and accessible, supporting efficient discovery and retrieval. By standardizing metadata collection, harvester helps maintain consistency and interoperability across digital repositories, making it an essential tool for librarians, archivists, and information professionals. Its ability to gather and organize metadata from diverse sources enhances the usability and reliability of digital information systems.

## Notable For
- **Metadata collection**: Specializes in gathering metadata packages from remote locations.
- **Digital library support**: Essential for organizing and describing information resources in digital libraries.
- **Non-tangible software**: Classified as a non-tangible executable component of a computer.
- **Standardized description**: Provides structured metadata to describe available information resources.

## Body
### Definition and Classification
Harvester is defined as software that collects metadata packages from remote locations, describing the information resources available at those locations. It is classified as an instance of software, specifically a non-tangible executable component of a computer.

### Function and Use
The primary function of harvester is to gather metadata from remote locations, ensuring that information resources are accurately described and accessible. This software is particularly valuable in digital libraries and information systems, where efficient metadata collection is crucial for resource discovery and retrieval.

### Documentation and References
For further details, the [Glossary of Digital Library Terms](https://cdlib.org/resources/technologists/glossary-of-digital-library-terms/#H) provides a comprehensive description of harvester, including its role and significance in digital information management. The entry was last updated on December 19, 2023, ensuring the information is current and reliable.

### Impact on Digital Libraries
Harvester contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of digital libraries by automating metadata collection, which supports the organization and retrieval of information resources. Its use helps maintain consistency and interoperability across digital repositories, making it an indispensable tool for information professionals.