December 2025
The WHELF Consortium has endorsed the Cataloguing Code of Ethics following discussions by the WHELF Metadata Group.
The Code outlines the principles that underpin our approach to gathering, assessing, and applying information during the creation of metadata for works and persons. It clarifies the standards we adhere to, the values that guide our decisions, and the expectations that govern our professional practice. This ensures that our metadata processes remain consistent, transparent, and aligned with recognised cataloguing frameworks.
Code of Ethics Mission Statement
At the request of their membership and for the benefit of all staff creating, sharing, enriching & maintaining metadata, the cataloguing communities of the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom are tasked with compiling a Code of Ethics for Cataloguers.
It will be a dynamic document embodying the collective experiences and wisdom of our community of practice and will consist of a framework, with guidance and examples of best practice, which can be shared across the cataloguing community.
The Code will be a collaborative and inclusive project managed by a Cataloguing Ethics Steering Committee directing a number of Working Groups consisting of individuals drawn from diverse geographical, ethnic and library sectors.