Karen Snow

Karen Snow is a Professor and the Ph.D. Program Director in the School of Information Studies at Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois. She teaches both face-to-face and online courses in cataloging, classification, and metadata.

Education:

• PhD in Information Science from University of North Texas
• MS in Library Science from University of North Texas
• MA in Leadership in Higher Education from Concordia University
• BA in Philosophy & Classical Studies from Trinity University

Dr. Snow's primary research interests focus on cataloging quality, ethics, and education. Her work examines organization, access, and control of information resources, with particular attention to knowledge organization ethics. She has been instrumental in developing professional standards for cataloging and metadata professionals. Her research demonstrates a strong commitment to improving cataloging practices while ensuring ethical considerations are integrated into information organization systems.

Analysis of Dr. Snow's publications reveals a consistent focus on practical cataloging resources and professional standards. Her work spans traditional classification systems like Dewey Decimal and Library of Congress Classification, while also addressing contemporary issues such as LGBTQ+ terminology preferences in cataloging and ethical considerations in metadata creation. Her research trajectory shows increasing attention to inclusivity and ethics in information organization, reflecting broader trends in library science toward more user-centered and socially responsible practices.

Professional Contributions:

• Co-author of the Core Competencies for Cataloging and Metadata Professional Librarians (2017 and 2023 revision)
• Co-author of the Cataloguing Code of Ethics (2021)
• Author of three practical guides published with Rowman & Littlefield

As Ph.D. Program Director, Dr. Snow oversees doctoral education in information studies while maintaining an active research agenda. Her work bridges theoretical library science with practical applications, making complex cataloging concepts accessible to students and practitioners. She has contributed significantly to the development of professional standards that guide cataloging and metadata work in libraries worldwide.