On The Evolving Philosophy of Library and Information Science

The Foundations of Library Science Philosophy

Library and Information Science (LIS) is a multidisciplinary field concerned with acquiring, organizing, preserving, retrieving, and disseminating information resources, including books, journals, manuscripts, digital materials, and other formats. It also encompasses the study of information behavior, information technology, and information policy. The field aims to support the efficient and effective use of information resources by individuals, organizations, and society.

LIS has evolved in response to various social, technological, and economic changes. The origins of the field can be traced back to the late 19th century when the first library schools were established in the United States. At that time, the primary focus was managing physical collections and developing cataloging and classification systems. The emphasis was on creating a standardized approach to organizing and accessing information resources.

During the mid-20th century, the specialization expanded its scope to research user needs and behavior. The emergence of information science as a separate discipline also significantly impacted LIS, as it brought a more scientific and quantitative approach to studying information. In addition, this period saw the development of information retrieval systems and the increasing use of computers in libraries and other information settings.

In the late 20th and 21st centuries, LIS has continued to evolve rapidly due to the proliferation of digital information and the Internet. The field has become increasingly interdisciplinary, emphasizing collaboration with other areas, such as computer science, cognitive psychology, and communications. LIS professionals are now responsible for managing digital collections, developing information architecture for websites and other digital platforms, and providing information literacy instruction to help users navigate the complex and rapidly changing information landscape.

Overall, the field of LIS has transformed from a focus on managing physical collections to a broader concern with the entire information lifecycle, from creation to preservation and access. The field continues to evolve, driven by technological innovations, changing user needs, and shifting societal expectations regarding the role of information in daily life.