'So wide and varied': The origins and character of British information science

Lyn Robinson, David Bawden
2013 Journal of information science  
This is the unspecified version of the paper. This version of the publication may differ from the final published version. Permanent repository link: http://openaccess.city.ac.uk/3106/ Link to published version: http://dx. Abstract This paper examines some characteristics of the 'British School' of information science. Three main forces driving the development of the new subject in Britain are identified: the documentation movement; special libraries; and the need for better treatment of
more » ... fic and technical information. Five characteristics which, taken together, distinguish the early British approach to information science from those adopted elsewhere are identified: its subject-based nature; its broad approach to information and information science; its status as an academic subject with a strong professional remit; its involvement with, but distinction from, information technology; and its involvement with memory institutions. Lessons are drawn for the future development of the information sciences.
doi:10.1177/0165551513492257 fatcat:7jifvehxk5hz5hswy4t75f46ke