UCDLFx 2019

In this session, we will dive into a facilitated discussion for all participants to think deeply about such questions as: How can we achieve inclusive metadata? What challenges arise as/if we amend inherited descriptions? How can we enhance metadata practices to better articulate context for our collection materials? How do we remediate metadata without inadvertently erasing evidence of historical bias recorded in our collections? And finally, how might our discussion open opportunities to continue sharing insights and approaches, perhaps even developing common best practices?
Descriptive metadata can become problematic when historical, cultural, or hierarchical context is disassociated from the archival object, with implications for discovery, interpretation, and the role and responsibility of the library, archive, or museum providing access to archival content. As archival materials become increasingly accessible in digital form, we find ourselves also challenged with addressing legacy descriptions influenced by creator or collector’s biases, or cultural (in)sensitivities and perspectives that don’t align with contemporary approaches and aspirations.
Please note: This discussion follows panelist session presenting on a variety of challenges we have encountered while confronting problematic legacy metadata in our collections as well as opportunities for adopting inclusivity in metadata approaches moving forward. All participants are welcome to attend; it is not required to attend the earlier panel session.