DVD cataloging: Finding the actual region encoding

I don’t know what’s going on with his arm.

Cataloging DVDs for your library can be a challenge, not only from the detailed metadata that needs recording, but also because of the decisions that need to be made about how to collect that metadata.  Some institutions only do container cataloging, confirming none of the metadata from the disc itself.  Others may decide to watch the entirety of each video so they can be assured of the accuracy of their subject analysis (though I don’t know of any who have the time to do this as a general practice).  Many institutions do at least confirm some of the metadata from the disc itself, but which do you choose? Continue reading