[Eril-l] Primary Research Group Releases New Study: “Survey of Cataloging & Metadata Librarians: Metadata Remediation Efforts” ISBN 979-8-88517-317-9

Electronic Resources in Libraries discussion list eril-l at lists.eril-l.org
Wed Oct 15 14:35:46 PDT 2025


This comprehensive study provides critical insights into how metadata
librarians—primarily from U.S. research universities—are planning and
executing metadata remediation initiatives to improve discoverability,
consistency, and accessibility in library catalogs and digital repositories.

The report is based on detailed survey responses from *47 metadata
librarians*, offering a rich dataset that reflects current practices,
challenges, and future plans in the field. The findings are broken out by
key variables such as *type of institution*, college *size and tuition
level, and other variables* allowing readers to benchmark their own
practices against peer institutions.
*Key Findings from the Report Include:*

1.      *High Priority on Metadata Remediation*
Over *63%* of respondents indicated that metadata remediation is a *high or
very high priority* in their library’s strategic planning.

2.      *Staffing Constraints Are a Major Barrier*
Nearly *58%* cited *insufficient staffing* as the primary obstacle to
undertaking large-scale remediation projects, with smaller institutions
reporting even greater challenges.

3.      *Use of Automation Tools Is Growing*
About *46.8%* of librarians reported using *automated tools or scripts* to
assist with metadata cleanup, particularly for MARC records and Dublin Core
schemas.

4.      *Focus on Subject Headings and Authority Control*
The most common areas targeted for remediation were *subject headings
(72.3%)* and *authority control (68.1%)*, reflecting a widespread effort to
improve consistency and inclusivity.

5.      *Collaboration Across Departments*
More than *40%* of respondents noted *cross-departmental
collaboration*—especially
with IT and digital scholarship units—as essential to successful
remediation efforts.

6.      *Training and Professional Development Needs*
A significant *55.3%* of librarians expressed a need for *additional
training* in metadata standards and remediation techniques, with many
advocating for more structured professional development opportunities.
For a table of contents and an excerpt, go to:
https://www.primaryresearch.com/AddCart.aspx?ReportID=863
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