Metadata overhaul: Upgrading metadata in the University of Houston Digital Library

Abstract

This paper outlines the metadata audit/upgrade process conducted by members of the Metadata and Digitization Services Department at the University of Houston (UH) Libraries. It identifies key recommendations and highlights some of the new guidelines and workflows created for future UH Digital Library (UHDL) metadata creation. It is organised by the major steps in the upgrade process. First, the methodology used to gather data is discussed. Next, key recommendations are outlined. Strategies were formed for upgrading the legacy metadata in the UHDL. Details on these strategies follow a discussion on the recommendations. After the strategies, readers will find information on the new standard and workflow that was established to implement the recommendations into the future. Finally, the paper concludes with a brief discussion on the importance of maintaining metadata over time.