Arguing that most writing on library and information service is empirical or devoted to reporting what happened, this paper attempts to promote conversation between the empiricists and the idealists or metaphysicians of library and information studies. The paper includes the following sections: (1) Professor Peter Kien and the Metaphysical Course…

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)

The first section establishes a working definition of library science and outlines the existing publications patterns of library science information. The existing system of bibliographic organization is examined in detail and services provided in the U.S.S.R. are described as an example of a systematic attempt at world coverage. In late 1967,…

Proposes a model for educating information professionals based on three requirements that underlie all information service: academic preparation in digital librarianship; education and practice to cultivate change management and interpersonal skills; and a practicum to develop technological perspective and provide a future orientation. Builds on…