DSpace

DSpace is an open source repository platform used by institutions to preserve and provide durable access to digital resources such as research outputs, theses, and other scholarly materials. It combines a Java-based backend with a web user interface and standard machine interfaces for interoperability.

Key Features

• Institutional repository capabilities for managing and publishing digital content
• REST API backend with an Angular-based web UI (v7+)
• Interoperability interfaces for repository integrations (including OAI-PMH and SWORD)
• Metadata and content management designed for long-term preservation and access
• Extensible platform commonly used for open access and scholarly communications workflows

Use Cases

• University or research institute repository for publications, theses, and datasets
• Digital collections portal for libraries, archives, and cultural heritage institutions
• Organization-wide preservation repository providing long-term access to digital resources

Limitations and Considerations

• Requires PostgreSQL and a servlet container (commonly Tomcat) to run
• Official Docker images are not production-ready; provided Docker Compose resources are intended for development/testing
• Legacy user interfaces from older versions (XMLUI/JSPUI) are not supported in v7 and above

DSpace is a widely adopted, standards-aware repository system suited to institutions that need robust digital preservation and access workflows. Its API-driven architecture supports integrations and customization while maintaining a stable foundation for institutional repositories.