From EAGLE to LOD: Examining FAIR and Sustainable Practices in Digital Epigraphy:Round table

The round table addresses the implementation of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles in epigraphy, tracing developments from the foundational EAGLE project (https://www.eagle-network.eu/) to the current work of the FAIR Epigraphy project (https://inscriptiones.org/). EAGLE established critical standards for accessibility and interoperability, laying the groundwork for subsequent projects, which now aim to align epigraphy with the broader ancient linked open data (LOD) environment. However, true data integration remains more of an ambition than a reality, and ensuring the long-term usability<br/>and accessibility of these resources remains a very real challenge. Does this extensive collaborative effort make sense? Quite apart from the serious<br/>questions regarding the viability of such work, either technically or culturally, what is the pay-off? How does (or will) increased data accessibility and interoperability support the research and teaching that we do, or might do in the future? Does it enable new research, or simply place existing research on a new (and better?) foundation? In response to an initial survey of current projects, the FAIR Epigraphy project has developed a number of tools, such as standardised bibliographical references, ontologies, and vocabularies: do such tools and standards, including the implementation of Open Science practices and emerging applications of AI technologies, foster epigraphic research? Participants will discuss best practices, including standardisation efforts, and offer critical perspectives on such tools and examples of research that they have enabled. By engaging practitioners and experts, we aim to explore whether the FAIR framework is genuinely the best path forward.