Fan fiction metadata creation and utilization within fan fiction archives: Three primary models

  • Shannon Fay Johnson Indiana University - Purdue University Fort Wayne
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3983/twc.2014.0578
Keywords: Folksonomy, Searchability, Tagging

Abstract

Issues related to searchability and ease of access have plagued fan fiction since its inception. This paper discusses the predominate forms of fan-mediated indexing and descriptive metadata, commonly referred to as folksonomy or tagging, and compares the benefits and disadvantages of each model. These models fall into three broad categories: free tagging, controlled vocabulary, and hybrid folksonomy. Each model has distinct advantages and shortcomings related to findability, results filtering, and creative empowerment. Examples for each are provided. Possible ramifications to fan fiction from improved metadata and access are also discussed.

Author Biography

Shannon Fay Johnson, Indiana University - Purdue University Fort Wayne
Walter E. Helmke Library Assistant Librarian Sciences and Health Sciences
Published
2014-09-15
Issue
Vol 17 (2014)
Section
Praxis
Copyright (c) 2014 Transformative Works and Cultures

TWC Nos. 25 onward are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. For an explanation of the journal's reasoning, see  the editorial, Copyright and Open Access. 

TWC Nos. 1 through 24 are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 Unported License with TWC, not the author, retaining copyright. For more information, see the Copyright Section.