Book Review: Metadata

Abstract

The second edition of Qin and Zheng’s Metadata is a welcome and thorough update of an already valuable text. The authors have expanded on the first edition in a way that reflects a detailed understanding of an often complex subject. Metadata are a constantly shifting landscape with new schema and tools emerging and fading at an amazing pace. Qin and Zheng deal with the subject deftly, providing content that is clearly situated in its own context that will serve as ample reference material even in such a fast-paced landscape. In addition, the book is complemented by valuable online content that includes a metadata tutorial, chapter outlines, and exercises. The website includes a section with similar content to the first edition of the book, allowing users to compare the structure of both editions and to benefit from additional practice exercises. Additionally, the links available in the online appendixes are invaluable for readers, providing an extensive reference source for further research and work in metadata.