Putting Knowledge to Use - Evolving Global Information Infrastructure and Information Transfer - page 126

“edutainment.” The Internet is a major source for the recreational function, a source
that undoubtedly will become more prominent in years to come.
Research Function
The research function results in the creation of new social knowledge. The use
of “research” here is that systematic, formal process that requires (1) a literature
review to determine the state of the art in an area of inquiry, (2) a careful articula-
tion of research questions or hypotheses, (3) a systematic plan and effort to collect
data, (4) analysis of the data, and (5) a report of the results, including generaliza-
tions extrapolated from the data.
This research may be the formal, carefully articulated and conducted study that
conforms to the scientific paradigm of a discipline or field, or it may be the problem-
oriented, practical research conducted by members of a profession. The latter re-
search, intended to solve professional problems, is often called “action research.”
Both types of research contribute new knowledge to a discipline or field of study.
Engagement in the research process depends on the environment of the in-
formation agency. School librarians are rarely engaged in the research function,
except in those rare cases when a teacher or principal may request help as they
conduct “action research” to solve a professional problem or to fulfill an assignment
in a graduate class. However, school librarians and other information professionals
may themselves engage in action research to address professional problems and
publish the results.
In academic libraries, librarians are on call and can be consulted by faculty to
assist with research through in-depth consultation. Information professionals in re-
search libraries and archives often engage with researchers for a long period of
time. For example, an archivist often works with researchers by appointment, and
a librarian might work several hours with a researcher on one question. Regard-
less of the type of research or the environment where it is conducted, use of in-
formation and knowledge as part of the research process is an essential part of the
information infrastructure.
Informational Function
The information function provides information for decision-making—utilization.
Providing information to people instead of teaching them how to use information
sources is not a new concept in the library and information profession; however,
implementation of information service has been slow to evolve.
The information function is often called “reference service” or “information ser-
vice” in today's libraries and information centers. Information service is found in