Introduction to Information Science

This second edition of a comprehensive text provides an up-to-date overview of the information environment, emphasizing the theory-practice relationship and offering a global perspective. It is a valuable resource for students and practitioners in library and information disciplines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Facet Publishing

This second edition of this comprehensive and authoritative text provides a thorough examination of all facets of the field, keeping it current with an analysis of the changes in the information environment, which is now predominantly digital, and their implications for the discipline and professions. Its foundation is firmly rooted in the philosophical, theoretical, and conceptual underpinnings of the subject, particularly in Floridi's concepts of the fourth revolution, hyperhistory, and onlife. The theory-practice relationship is given significant emphasis throughout, and the extensive literature coverage makes this an invaluable resource.

This second edition has undergone a substantial revision, featuring largely new text, illustrations, and resources. It offers a global perspective, covering a wide range of topics. The main topics covered include:

Foundations: Philosophies, theories, concepts, ethics, and historical perspectives

Organising, retrieving, and analysing information and data

Information behaviour, domain analysis, and digital literacies

Digital technologies, information systems, and information management

Information research methods and informetrics

Changing modes of information communication, and information society

The nature and future of the information disciplines and professions

This book is an essential text for students of library and information disciplines, including information science, librarianship, information and knowledge management, archives and records management, and digital humanities. It serves as an introduction for those embarking on research in these areas and as a valuable resource for thoughtful and reflective practitioners.

The field of information science and technology is constantly evolving, and this second edition of the textbook aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the latest developments and trends. It covers a wide range of topics, including information retrieval, digital libraries, information management, and information ethics.

The book is divided into four parts, each covering a different aspect of the field. The first part provides an introduction to the foundations of information science and technology, including the history, philosophy, and theoretical perspectives of the field. The second part explores the organizing, retrieving, and analysing of information and data, including the use of information retrieval systems, digital libraries, and data mining techniques. The third part focuses on information behaviour, domain analysis, and digital literacies, including the role of information professionals in creating and maintaining information environments that support learning and research. The fourth part examines the changing modes of information communication and information society, including the impact of digital technologies on information access, dissemination, and consumption.

Throughout the textbook, there is a strong emphasis on the theory-practice relationship, with practical examples and case studies drawn from real-world situations. The book also includes a comprehensive bibliography and a glossary of key terms and concepts, making it an accessible and valuable resource for students, researchers, and practitioners in the field of information science and technology.

In conclusion, this second edition of the textbook is an essential resource for anyone interested in information science and technology. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field, covering a wide range of topics and emphasizing the theory-practice relationship. With its practical examples and case studies, it is an accessible and valuable resource for students, researchers, and practitioners in the field.

Weight: 622g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783304950
Edition number: Second Edition