2026 Core Forum

Academic libraries invest heavily in ebook collections, yet the quality of metadata associated with those records varies significantly depending on whether records are vendor-supplied or professionally created. This mixed-methods research examines the relationship between ebook metadata quality and discoverability in academic libraries, comparing data by source and assessing their impact on institutional return on investment. The research synthesizes findings from original quantitative and qualitative data collection to build a comprehensive picture of how metadata decisions shape access to library collections. Preliminary findings suggest that vendor-supplied records frequently lack essential elements such as subject headings and classification codes, and that when these elements are absent, discovery system features designed to surface content cannot function effectively. The result is a measurable gap between what libraries pay for and what their users can find. Findings have practical implications for academic library administrators and collection development professionals making procurement and resource allocation decisions. The poster presents those findings and offers a framework for evaluating institutional investments in discovery platforms, descriptive practice, and ebook collections.