MODSrecords

MODSrecords is a metadata standard developed by the Library of Congress for describing bibliographic and other items. It is an XML-based schema that aims to be flexible, extensible, and interoperable, designed to support a wide range of information resources. MODS is intended to be a human-readable and machine-processible format, bridging the gap between older, more complex metadata standards and simpler descriptive formats.

The standard is organized into a hierarchical structure, allowing for detailed descriptions of various elements related to an item, such as title, creator, subject, publication information, physical description, and identifiers. MODS can represent different levels of detail, making it suitable for various applications within libraries, archives, and other cultural heritage institutions. Its design emphasizes the ability to encode information in multiple ways, supporting different cataloging practices and data exchange needs.

MODS was created as a successor to the MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) format, offering a more modern and flexible alternative. While MARC remains widely used, MODS provides a more granular approach to metadata and is designed to be more easily integrated with other XML-based systems and technologies. The Library of Congress actively supports the development and use of MODS, providing documentation and tools for its implementation. Its adoption by various institutions facilitates the sharing and discovery of digital and physical collections.