Abstract

This study aimed to suggest metadata elements for online reference resource systems based on users' perceptions. We surveyed librarians in four types of libraries, asking them indicate the need for each of 17 metadata elements. The survey results were compared to the current data input rates of the system, which has been operating for the past two years. Based on both the respondent data and current data input rates, we suggested that title, description, subject, creator, type, identifier, language, coverage, location, and tag elements must be included in the system as the metadata elements for online reference resources. n addition, the input rates of creator and copyright were 20.20% and 18.30%, respectively, but the respondents answered that these items were needed 82.15% and 82.77%, respectively. Therefore, these two items are necessary as metadata elements. On the other hand, the data input rates of type, source, date, relation, and contribution were less than 3%, but almost 70% of respondents answered that all these items were needed. So further research should be performed to determine whether or not these items are needed for online reference resource systems.