Faceted Evolution: Practical Strategies for Modernizing Library Metadata

Faceted Evolution: Practical Strategies for Modernizing Library Metadata

As libraries transition toward linked data, the transformation of traditional Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) into granular, interoperable facets is essential for modern discovery. The ALA Core Subject Analysis Committee (SAC) Subcommittee on Faceted Vocabularies (SSFV) is at the forefront of this shift, developing the infrastructure needed to bridge the gap between conventional authority control and the semantic web.

This session explores the SSFV’s effort in supplementing complex LCSH strings with structured facets—including LC Genre/Form Terms (LCGFT), LC Demographic Group Terms (LCDGT), and geographic/chronological data—through a hybrid model that maintains record integrity while enhancing search precision. We will highlight the critical work of our task groups—Literature, Chronological Data, Module Maintenance, and LC Proposal—sharing practical strategies for mapping modules, testing with partners like OCLC, and developing scripts to automate MARC transformation. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how these faceted workflows can optimize metadata for both current cataloging systems and emerging linked-data environments. Presented at the 2026 ALA Core IG Week on March 3.

Deng, Sai (Sai Sophie)

McGrath, Kelley

Hovde , Sarah

Chen-Gaffey, Aiping

American Library Association

2026-03-03

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eng

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