Networked Resources and Metadata Committee

Charge

“Networked resources” covers the diversity of data and software available in an online environment such as the Internet and World Wide Web, excluding CD-ROM and other portable media which are within the purview of the ALCTS Media Resources Committee. The term “metadata” is used in its broadest sense as “data about data,” information created and used to support the discovery and retrieval of networked resources.

Charge: Recognizing that a coherent view of networked information resources and metadata issues will benefit the activities of the division, its committees, and sections, the committee is charged

To provide a broad framework for information exchange on current research developments, tools, and activities affecting networked information resources and metadata;
To coordinate and actively participate in the development and review of standards concerning networked resources and metadata in conjunction with the divisions’s committees and sections, other units within ALA, and relevant outside agencies; and
To develop programs and to foster and sponsor education and training opportunities that contribute to and enhance an understanding of networked resources and metadata, their identity, content, technology, access, control, and use.

The Committee was established in June 1995 as the Digital Resources Committee and charged “to study and address issues regarding digital resources of all kinds, including the full range of digital data (text, graphics, numerical, images) and computer software available in a variety of physical formats and online environments that fall within the activities of the division. Such resources incorporate computer technology for access and use (e.g. CD-ROM discs which utilizes optical technology).”

In June 1998, the name and charge were changed to their present form.