Towards an Online Searchable Bibliographic Database for Ismaili Studies

Abstract

Research in the field of Ismāʿīlī Studies has increased exponentially during the last decades. However, all of the existing bibliographies in the field are print-based, which lack the efficient and effective searchability offered by online bibliographic databases. This paper explores some ideas towards creating an ideal online searchable database dedicated exclusively to Ismaili Studies. It covers elements of an ideal database such as search features, subject headings, linking, metadata, abstracting, and indexing. Moreover, it provides the rationale for a specialized database, as opposed to using multi-disciplinary or interdisciplinary databases to conduct research in Ismaili Studies. The database can serve as a model to implement a similar specialized database for other areas of research within and beyond theological and religious studies.