The Defining Element– A Discussion of the Creator Element Within Metadata Schemas

The attribution of authorship in the context of electronic works is complex. Defining the semantic content of the element that denotes authorship or responsibility for an electronic resource must adhere to the prescribed definition of the elements within metadata standards. The Creator element is a kind of catchall element for the designation of responsibility for a resource’s content. The Creator element or its equivalent in individual metadata schemas is examined: (1) to understand how the element is treated and functions within each specified schema, and (2) to eventually decipher similarities and differences of the Creator element across different schemas, which shall indicate defining attributes of the element. Standardization of the definitions within various element sets is suggested. In the case of the Creator element, attribution should reside with the entity primarily responsible for the resource. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-HAWORTH. E-mail address: Website: © 2005 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.]