Introduction to the Library and Information Professions

Preface



Chapter 1: Introduction: Purpose and Objectives of This Book

Chapter Overview

Why Read This Book?

The Intended Audience

Scope of the Book

The Role of Professionals

The Value of Theory

Theory in the Information Professions Today

Theory and Its Uses in Professional Service

Defining Terms

Information and Communication Professions: Convergence and Divergences

Similarities and Differences among the Information Professions

Characteristics of a Profession

Library Technicians and Library Assistants

Conclusion

References



Chapter 2: Creation, Diffusion, and Utilization of Knowledge

Chapter Overview

Introduction

Information and Data

Knowledge

Creation of Knowledge

Dissemination

Diffusion

Utilization

Change and the Evolution of Professions

A Model for Explaining the Creation, Diffusion, and Utilization of Knowledge

Creating New Knowledge

Diffusion of Knowledge

Public Policy

Role of Professions in the Utilization of Knowledge

Implications for Information Professionals

Summary

References



Chapter 3: The Role of Professionals as Change Agents

The Impact of Change on Society

Categories of Change

The Paradigm Shift in Western Society

The Paradigm Shift in Disciplines and Professions

Paradigm Shift in the Information Professions

Levels of User-Centered Services

Conclusion

References



Chapter 4: The Science Supporting the Information Professions

Chapter Overview

The Importance of Theory to Professionals

Levels of Theory

Characteristics Common to the Information Professions

The Science of the Information Professions

Policy and Environmental Context

Conclusion

References



Chapter 5: Information Transfer in the Information Professions

Chapter Overview

Introduction to Information Transfer

A Closer Look at Information Transfer

Information Professions and Information Transfer

A Model for Managing an Information Utility

Community Information Infrastructure

Conclusion

References



Chapter 6: The Cycle of Professional Service

Chapter Overview

Role of the Professional

The Diagnostic Process

Diagnosing Information Use Behaviors

Theory Base for Diagnosis

Implications for Practitioners

The Environmental Context

Community Analysis

Putting the Information to Work

Conclusion

References



Chapter 7: The Information Infrastructure

Chapter Overview

Definition of "Information Infrastructure"

A Model for Studying the Information Infrastructure: The Transportation Infrastructure

Elements of the Information Infrastructure

A Model for Analyzing the Information Infrastructure

A Model for the Technology and Information Infrastructure

Role of Information Professionals

Conclusion

References



Chapter 8: The Processes and Functions of Information Professionals

Chapter Overview

The Importance of Customization

The Processes of Building a Collection of Resources

The Functions of Information Agencies

Levels of Service

Putting It All Together: The Role of the Professional

References



Chapter 9: The Infrastructure of the Information Professions

Chapter Overview

Characteristics of a Profession

History

Body of Knowledge

Professional Associations

Literature of the Field

Professional Education

Accreditation

Guidelines for Service

Code of Ethics

Public Recognition

Taxonomy of the Information Professions

Conclusion



Chapter 10: Trends and Issues

Chapter Overview

Introduction

Information Infrastructure Issues

Issues in Library/Information Education

Recent Studies in LIS Education

Conclusion

References



Appendix A: Codes of Ethics

Appendix B: Professional Organizations

Appendix C: Professional Journals

Bibliography

Index