Chamnongsri et al, Applying FRBR … [to] Digitized Thai Palm Leaf Manuscripts
I saw this because someone tagged it at CiteULike: “Applying FRBR Model as a Conceptual Model in Development of Metadata for Digitized Thai Palm Leaf Manuscripts,” by N. Chamnonsri, L. Manmart, V. Wuwongse, and E. Jacob, Digital Libraries: Achievements, Challenges and Opportunities (2006), pp. 254-263.
The CiteULike page itself has some more information.
Abstract: This paper outlines the adaptation of IFLA’s Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records (FRBR) for development of a metadata scheme to represent palm leaf manuscripts (PLMs) and facilitate their retrieval in digital collections. The FRBR model uses a structured, four-level hierarchy to represent an intellectual work with multiple titles, editions or formats. Because FRBR focuses on representation of the conceptual work rather than the physical entity, it must be modified for representation of PLMs. In this modified model, the level of work applies to the physical PLM rather than its conceptual content; expression applies to the languages in which the PLM occurs; manifestation applies to the formats in which each expression is available; and item applies to individual copies of a single format. The modified model has been used to devise a metadata scheme where each level has its own set of elements. Keywords: Metadata, FRBR Model, Palm Leaf Manuscript, Digital Collection.
Wikipedia’s page on palm leaf manuscripts will give you some background. Digitizing these is a great project.