Critical and Reparative Metadata at WashU

The WashU Libraries recognizes that there are items which can be harmful or difficult to view. Existing materials can contain outdated, offensive, and possibly violent views and opinions. Problematic language in materials can also exist in associated records because of previous cataloging standards. The result of long-standing practices is the presence of metadata which may perpetuate outdated views without their proper context which can be traumatizing for users.

We are committed to creating inclusive, anti-racist, and non-derogatory bibliographic descriptions which both accurately describe our holdings while also mitigating their potential harm. The Critical and Reparative Metadata Working Group was formed to meet the need of improving how materials are described. The effort to improve record metadata involves making active and conscious changes to existing practices which do not further marginalize the communities contained in them. 

The Critical and Reparative Metadata Working group is focused on navigating changes which often require a long and complex approval process. Existing best practices dictate that, whenever possible, language and terminology used within records must meet institutional standards established by authorities such as the Library of Congress. The responsibility of the Critical and Reparative Metadata Working Group includes being active participants in advocating for the improvement of subject headings and descriptions used by both WashU Libraries as well as other institutions. 

The WashU Libraries are dedicated to efficient and timely processing and cataloging while also acknowledging that this process will be a continuous effort. The work to improve description and accessibility will also require constant collaboration between staff, users, and the communities who are reflected in our collections.  

We welcome feedback on improving the modernization of outdated and harmful descriptive language across all University Library collections. Examples of improvement efforts include the elimination of stereotypes in record descriptions and updating subject headings which currently utilize anachronistic terminology. Our goal is to be responsive to the needs of all users and proactively promote an inclusive and safe research environment. We seek feedback that invites critical examination of policies, procedures, and project priorities.

We are not responsible for the content of described materials themselves. Any requests related to the content of items will be directed to the appropriate stakeholders. All other inquiries can be sent to Metadata Services using the feedback form.

When developing our plans for future projects, considerations include but are not limited to:

• Staff availability and expertise
• Scope and amount of material
• Complexity of the proposed review and potential revisions
• Existing resources on preferred terminology by community groups
• Anticipated research interest and use

Please complete the Reparative Description Request Form to propose a potential project or provide feedback. 

If you have inquiries related to CRM and its work, please contact Metadata Services (catalog@wumail.wustl.edu).

Heidi Margold, Head of Metadata Services, heidim@wustl.edu

Masha Sapp, MARC Cataloging Supervisor, msapp@wustl.edu

Holly Weller, Original Catalog Librarian, hweller@wustl.edu

Sarah Weller, Original Catalog Librarian, sweller@wustl.edu

Katy Egts, Digital Initiatives Metadata Librarian, egts@wustl.edu

Rick Ceballos, Audiovisual Metadata Librarian, ceballos@wustl.edu

Brittany Long, Digital Asset Metadata Librarian, blong@wustl.edu