Metadata evaluation criteria in respect to archival maps description: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Purposes

This paper aims to present an objective summary of the current state of research concerning the evaluation criteria of map metadata. The undertaken research identifies which authors and to what extent the discussed issues related to the metadata of objects collected in digital libraries, with particular emphasis on cartographic materials.

Design/methodology/approach

Independent reviewers analysed the basic articles data. Selected papers were subject to quality assessment, based on the full text and 12 questions. Finally, iterative backward reference search was conducted.

Findings

The results demonstrate that there are no universal criteria for metadata evaluation. There are no works that would assess the metadata of cartographic studies, although numerous publications point to the need for this type of work.

Practical implications

Metadata evaluation allows users to obtain knowledge whether objects found in the library are relevant for their needs.

Originality/value

The criteria and methods most often used for assessing metadata quality which can be adopted to map metadata evaluation have been identified. The authors identified the existing research gaps and proved that there is a need for research contributions in the field of evaluating map metadata.

Citation

Kuźma, M. and Mościcka, A. (2020), "Metadata evaluation criteria in respect to archival maps description: A systematic literature review", The Electronic Library, Vol. 38 No. 1, pp. 1-27. https://doi.org/10.1108/EL-07-2019-0161