Introduction to Information Science

Beginning with a preface and six forewords by library and information science professionals, this is not a typical textbook! London-based authors Bawden (information science, City Univ. London; editor, Journal of Documentation) and Robinson (program director, library & information science, City Univ. London; Understanding Healthcare Information) have ably achieved their objective of introducing "the logic and language" of information science. The text begins with an epistemological exploration of what is (are) information science(s), and that question is woven throughout. More than one answer is explored, with a focus on the importance of people in any transfer of data, information, or knowledge. "Domain analysis" also permeates the text, with detailed explanations of this "realist approach" to the philosophy of information science in chapter five. While there are illustrative examples of current technologies, the authors' philosophical focus means they are not bogged down in contemporary minutiae; thus the useful life of the book is extended. This work is so different from Charles H. Davis and Debora Shaw's more technology-oriented Introduction to Information Science and Technology (2011) that both could be used in an introductory course.