Metadata in ARL Libraries: A Survey of Metadata Practices

Abstract

This study assesses the current metadata practices and trends in Association of Research Libraries (ARL) libraries, based on the survey Metadata conducted in spring 2007 (SPEC Kit 298: Metadata), a collaborative effort with the staff at the ARL. The survey investigates how metadata has been implemented in ARL member libraries: what kinds of projects or initiatives have been undertaken, what types of digital objects are associated with metadata, who are creating metadata, what schemas and tools are used to create and manage metadata, and the organizational changes and challenges resulting from the adoption of metadata in the libraries. The author summarizes her observations of the findings and the main themes that emerged from the metadata practices in libraries. She assesses the changing context of metadata creation and management and the evolution of metadata workflow and best practices in libraries. The author also discusses the roles and responsibilities of metadata professionals and the implications of metadata practices for the library and information community.