Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
In order to understand what we mean, one must consider the elements of utiliz-
ation and how library and information professionals are actively engaged in utiliz-
ation. As noted in Chapter 7, there are six functions of information and knowledge
that an information professional works with:
Creating new information or knowledge: the research function
Teaching and facilitating learning: the educational function of information
and knowledge
Appreciating: the cultural function
Enjoying: the recreational function
Deciding: the informational function
Organizing: the bibliographic function
The reader may wish to review Chapter 7, where we explained in more depth
each function and the reality of the information professionals' passive, reactive,
and assertive levels of service. Here we expand on the library and information pro-
fessional's role with these functions by exploring current examples of professional
practice.
Research
The research function creates new knowledge through a formal process in-
volving a review of the literature, framing what is known of the area around the
research questions or hypotheses, a plan for data collection, analysis, and a report
on the findings. Information professionals may engage in building oral history pro-
jects, contribute to the research process with new knowledge to an area of study,
or engage in an effort to provide in-depth consultation with researchers.
While on-demand research and information support at a reference desk has
long been an accepted service, today's librarians have added the telephone, e-
mail, and newer communication modes such as instant messaging and texts. Aca-
demic libraries offer support services for individuals through research consultations
(offering in-depth, specialized expertise in a subject), online research guides, and
tutorials in an effort to reach users and answer questions when they arise.
Washington University School of Medicine Oral History Project includes recor-
ded interviews and transcripts dating from 1959. These primary resources are
openly available on the Web. The interviews include reflections on the history of
the medical school, medical practice in St. Louis, Missouri, and developments in
the field of medicine. This collection continues to grow with new interviews. Since
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