This guide to information science and technology — the product of a unique scholarly collaboration —presents a clear, concise, and approachable account of the fundamental issues, with appropriate historical background and theoretical grounding. Topics covered include information needs, seeking, and use; representation and organization of information; computers and networks; structured information systems; information systems applications; users perspectives in information systems; social informatics; communication using information technologies; information policy; and the information profession.
Introduction to Information Science and Technology was written by ASIST member volunteers using a dedicated wiki to present their expertise and perspectives, under the guidance of editors Charles H. Davis and Debora Shaw. All contributed material was reviewed, approved, and interlinked by the editors and subject experts. Planned for periodic print publication, the book is designed to serve as an introductory text for students in the field, while the wiki offers ASIST members an opportunity to share their knowledge and continually refresh, enhance, and expand the book s coverage.