Content Description
Definition
A concise, objective, non-critical summary of the content of the moving image Work and/or Variant (FIAF 1.3.6)
Description
Contents (505?)
Summary (520)
General notes (500)
How to find information about the content
Information can be found on either:
the container
accompanying material
wrapper of metadata in a digital file
reported by authoritative secondary sources such as filmographies, censorship visas, etc
Rules
use clear and objective language
If description is taken from an external source, include reference
general observations about recording (e.g. hard to hear after XX:XX:XX due to leaf blower in background)
Don't just copy the blurb of a DVD
If cataloguing a physical cassette with clear demarcation of content - use "side A" or "side B" to assist with navigating the item, e.g. :
side A contains Interview of Person X and side B contains Interview of Person Y
No need to specify side A and B if description will sufficiently apply to both side
Digitised items can include multiple files per item e.g. :
Interview of Person X can consist of 5 files
Specifics to consider for certain genres
Oral history/ Interviews
Include interviewer name and interviewee
location
timestamps with questions if easily discernable
Lectures
Name of lecturer and topic
Location
Timestamps with specific sub-topics if easily discernable
Documentaries
Identifying specific events, people or ideas
Timestamps with specific sub-topics if easily discernable
Note the level of detail presented on the topic (e.g. is it a high level overview or detailed exploration?)
Reference/teaching
Identify main topics covered if this is not clear from the title, include timestamps where possible
Note the educational level (e.g. primary school, secondary school, university)
Examples
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