Clio's Claim: The Role of Historical Research in Library and Information Science

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Orvin Lee Shiflett, Professor (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: History offers each librarian a direct opportunity to participate in the cooperative research effort. The writing of history requires no facility with esoteric research tools. The proper use of sources requires care, intelligence, patience, and, frequently, pure luck. These are not talents beyond the abilities of most librarians. Further, the dispersion of resources in library history is such that individual librarians, through testing hypotheses suggested by other research on their own records, can make a significant contribution to library and information science research. The existence of numerous journals for the publication of such "little history" should serve as an encouragement. Library historians may not receive credits toward promotion through their research activities, but they can realize their professional commitment through their contribution to our greater understanding of the development of the profession.

Additional Information

Publication
Library Trends 32 (Spring 1984): 385-406
Language: English
Date: 1984
Keywords
librarianship, library history

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