Metadata: For Information Management and Retrieval (Become an Expert)

One of the key challenges facing information managers today is the need to inter–relate different sources and types of information, whether it be in an internet search across a range of resources or an e–commerce system that needs to exchange data between proprietary applications in order to complete a transaction. Metadata allows interoperation of information systems, improves retrieval performance and provides a way of managing information resources. It is now an established part of the work of LIS professionals. This thought–provoking, timely and useful introduction to metadata by one of its leading advocates assesses the current theory and practice and examines key developments – including global initiatives – in terms of both policy and technology. This book is essential reading for network–oriented librarians and information workers in all sectors and for students of librarianship, information science and records management. In addition it will provide useful background reading for ICT professionals supporting content–based systems and information services. Publishers, policy makers and practitioners in other curatorial traditions such as museums and archives will also find much of relevance. This is a thought–provoking introduction to metadata written by one of its leading advocates. It assesses the current theory and practice of metadata and examines key developments – including global initiatives – in terms of both policy and technology. Following an overview of metadata development, the core of the book focuses on the application of metadata and defines five purposes for metadata illustrated with practical examples. It then goes on to consider the issue of managing metadata itself and concludes with a look towards the future. This book will be essential reading for network–oriented librarians and information workers in all sectors and for students of librarianship, information science and records management. In addition it will provide useful background reading for IT professionals supporting content–based systems and information services. Publishers, policy makers and practitioners in other curatorial traditions such as museums and archives will also find much of relevance.

About the Author:

David Haynes MSc CMC FCLIP is Head of Consultancy Services at CILIP: the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals. A Certified Management Consultant and a Chartered Fellow of CILIP, he has been involved in information consultancy and research for 20 years and brings to the subject considerable knowledge and practical experience of library, information and records management practice in government, commercial companies and the voluntary sector. He has worked in many different parts of the world and is a regular speaker and course presenter on metadata and other information–related issues.