Introduction to the library and information professions

This comprehensive book prepares readers for a changing profession in the library and information field, presenting a holistic approach that examines theories and models and utilizes creative problem-solving strategies.

In this rapidly changing, knowledge-based society, library and information professionals require a broad understanding of the profession. Introduction to the Library and Information Professions, Second Edition presents a toolbox of models that enable this essential understanding for undergraduate and graduate students in library and information science programs as well as practicing professionals seeking continuing education. The materials in this second edition reflect the latest trends in the library and information profession, including services and issues that stem from new advances in technology.

The authors present "big picture" information that will allow readers to better plan and implement client-entered services, discussing topics such as the life cycle of information, the role of library and information professionals as change agents, models of information transfer, the national information infrastructure, and important trends and developments. The contents provide readers with clear guidance and a carefully explained rationale for lifelong careers as information professionals.

• Preface p. ix
• 1 Introduction: Purpose and Objectives of This Book p. 1
• Chapter Overview p. 1
• Why Read This Book? p. 1
• The Intended Audience p. 2
• Scope of the Book p. 2
• The Role of Professionals p. 3
• The Value of Theory p. 4
• Theory in the Information Professions Today p. 5
• Theory and Its Uses in Professional Service p. 7
• Defining Terms p. 9
• Information and Communication Professions: Convergences and Divergences p. 11
• Similarities and Differences among the Information Professions p. 12
• Characteristics of a Profession p. 17
• Library Technicians and Library Assistants p. 18
• Conclusion p. 19
• References p. 20
• 2 Creation, Diffusion, and Utilization of Knowledge p. 23
• Chapter Overview p. 23
• Introduction p. 23
• Information and Data p. 23
• Knowledge p. 24
• Creation of Knowledge p. 24
• Dissemination p. 24
• Diffusion p. 24
• Utilization p. 24
• Change and the Evolution of Professions p. 25
• A Model for Explaining the Creation, Diffusion, and Utilization of Knowledge p. 26
• Creating New Knowledge p. 28
• Diffusion of Knowledge p. 29
• Public Policy p. 30
• Role of Professions in the Utilization of Knowledge p. 30
• Implications for Information Professionals p. 31
• Conclusion p. 32
• References p. 32
• 3 The Role of Professionals as Change Agents p. 33
• Chapter Overview p. 33
• The Impact of Change on Society p. 33
• Categories of Change p. 34
• The Paradigm Shift in Western Society p. 36
• The Paradigm Shift in Disciplines and Professions p. 39
• Paradigm Shift in the Information Professions p. 41
• Levels of User-Centered Services p. 43
• Conclusion p. 43
• References p. 43
• 4 The Science Supporting the Information Professions p. 45
• Chapter Overview p. 45
• Introduction p. 45
• The Importance of Theory to Professionals p. 45
• Levels of Theory p. 46
• Characteristics Common to the Information Professions p. 47
• The Science of the Information Professions p. 48
• Policy and Environmental Context p. 53
• Conclusion p. 57
• References p. 57
• 5 Information Transfer in the Information Professions p. 59
• Chapter Overview p. 59
• Introduction to Information Transfer p. 59
• A Closer Look at Information Transfer p. 62
• Information Professions and Information Transfer p. 69
• A Model for Managing an Information Utility p. 71
• Community Information Infrastructure p. 76
• Conclusion p. 76
• References p. 77
• 6 The Cycle of Professional Service p. 79
• Chapter Overview p. 79
• Role of the Professional p. 79
• The Diagnostic Process p. 81
• Community Analysis p. 88
• Conclusion p. 96
• References p. 96
• 7 The Information Infrastructure p. 99
• Chapter Overview p. 99
• Definition of "Information Infrastructure" p. 99
• A Model for Studying the Information Infrastructure: The Transportation Infrastructure p. 101
• Elements of the Information Infrastructure p. 102
• A Model for Analyzing the Information Infrastructure p. 103
• A Model for the Technology and Information Infrastructure p. 125
• Role of Information Professionals p. 126
• Conclusion p. 127
• References p. 128
• 8 The Processes and Functions of Information Professionals p. 131
• Chapter Overview p. 131
• The Importance of Customization p. 132
• The Processes of Building a Collection of Resources p. 132
• The Functions of Information Agencies p. 139
• Levels of Service p. 146
• Putting It All Together: The Role of the Professional p. 147
• References p. 148
• 9 The Infrastructure of the Information Professions p. 149
• Chapter Overview p. 149
• Characteristics of a Profession p. 149
• History p. 150
• Body of Knowledge p. 153
• Professional Associations p. 155
• Literature of the Field p. 155
• Professional Education p. 157
• Accreditation p. 158
• Guidelines for Service p. 158
• Code of Ethics p. 159
• Public Recognition p. 159
• Taxonomy of the Information Professions p. 160
• Conclusion p. 163
• References p. 164
• 10 Trends and Issues p. 167
• Chapter Overview p. 167
• Introduction p. 167
• Information Infrastructure Issues p. 167
• Issues in Library/Information Education p. 174
• Recent Studies in LIS Education p. 175
• Conclusion p. 175
• References p. 176
• Appendix A Professional Organizations p. 179
• Appendix B Professional Journals p. 185
• Bibliography p. 189
• Index p. 195