This paper attempts to explore the use of social metadata in academic libraries. A total of 173 academic libraries were examined and analyzed. Various social metadata were reviewed, involved with users' participation and contribution. Error-reports, tagging, recommendations, ratings, reviews, comments, sharing, and community were identified that support selection, sharing and collaboration through social engagement. Suggestions drawn from the findings are offered to utilize social metadata in order to enhance users' contribution and interaction. It is hoped that this exploratory study will provide insight into the use of social metadata in academic libraries.