Considers the role of "information counselors" in the rapidly changing information environment, contrasting the functions performed by information counselors with those normally performed by information managers and librarians. The factors which are leading toward the development of a new profession are thoroughly reviewed. (JL)

Articulates key elements in the "invisible substrate" of information science. Emphasizes information science's role as a meta-science--conducting research and developing theory around documentary products of other disciplines and activities. Suggests that mental activities of information science center around "representation" and "organization" of…

The role of librarians is defined by their ability to identify user needs and then use techniques from both library and information science to meet those needs. Positions that utilize these abilities outside of the traditional library should not be considered as alternative careers. (CLB)

The nine subcategories and 20 specific projects within five research areas in library and information science which are summarized were identified by information specialists who evaluated and assigned priorities to nearly 100 proposed research projects prepared by Cuadra Associates, Inc. Participants in the four-day meeting are listed. (RBF)

The thesis of this paper is that the growth of the field of medical informatics, while seemingly a potential threat to medical librarianship, is in fact an opportunity for librarianship to both extend its reach and also to further define its unique characteristics in contrast to those of medical informatics. Furthermore, because medical…

Presents personal analysis of information science as a field of scientific inquiry and professional practice that has evolved over the past half-century. Examines origin of information science in respect to problems of the information explosion, social role of field, nature of "information," structure of field in terms of problems addressed,…

Outlines the characteristics of a postindustrial society, describes the role of information professionals within such a society, and presents a model curriculum for information managers. Education for library/information management in Malaysia is discussed and an outline of the library science curriculum at the MARA Institute of Technology is…

This paper reports a study of the developing skills profile of information professionals, exploring the similarities and differences between library and information-based work in the light of the merger of the UK Library Association and the Institute of Information Scientists in April 2002. It examines areas of convergence such as the growing…

The second edition of "Library and Information Science Today" (LIST) was designed, as was the first, to be a mechanism for gathering and disseminating timely information on significant work in progress in librarianship and information science. Introductory sections describe the registry and explain how to use it. The project descriptions which…

Describes the publication of the American Library Association's new school library media program guidelines and standards, "Information Power: Building Partnerships for Learning." Discussion includes the library mission; the constant state of evolution of the library and information services profession; and the importance of standards.…

The approaching information age will encompass a different societal system in the 21st century due to the impact of the information revolution resulting from developments in computer and communications technology. In light of these changes, libraries need to evolve with the new technology by preparing now to become part of the electronic…

The seven seminar papers in this issue discuss the role of information science in various public and private organizations; the development and current status of information science as a professional field; and the use of advanced information technologies and information systems. Session chairmen's remarks and four question sessions are included.…

Discusses chemical information services offered in industrial chemical libraries, based on experiences at the 3M Library. Topics include qualifications of chemical information professionals; corporate culture; clients; services, including reference, current awareness, confidentiality, and end-user support; and information resources, including…

Findings from interviews with geoscience information specialists from government, academic institutions, and corporations reveal the following common themes for educational development: new technologies; changing models for libraries and information services; funding priorities; increasing and competing demands on the information specialist's…