The decolonization of Arctic library and archives metadata (DALAM) thematic network at the University of the Arctic

Abstract

In 2022, the Polar Libraries Colloquy created a thematic network within the University of the Arctic thematic network’s structure to address the decolonization of metadata. Metadata, including archival description, subject headings, and other descriptive terminology, sometimes includes terms that are offensive to Indigenous peoples, incorrect, or too general to be useful. The purpose of the Decolonization of Arctic Library and Archives Metadata (DALAM) thematic network is to create an alliance of librarians, archivists, and other information professionals working in metadata decolonization. The network, provisionally approved in 2022, focuses on member education and information as well as resource sharing with the goal of improving efficiencies in circumpolar metadata decolonization efforts. This chapter details the creation of DALAM, its purpose, and its future activities.