Informationsboken

Informationsboken is a generic term in Swedish publishing for a non-fiction reference work intended to present factual information about a broad range of topics to a general audience. It overlaps with the concepts of faktabok and uppslagsverk, but tends to be more approachable and topic-oriented than comprehensive encyclopedias. The format often combines concise texts with visual material such as photographs, diagrams, maps, and captions, and includes navigational features like a glossary, index, contents list, and cross-references.

Purpose and use: Designed to inform rather than teach a specific curriculum, information books are common in libraries, schools, and homes. They serve as introductory resources for learners, hobbyists, and readers seeking reliable background information on science, history, culture, technology, and more.

Creation and scope: Informationsboken is typically produced by editors and contributors who are subject-matter experts, journalists, and illustrators. Fact-checking and sourcing are important, and many editions include references to primary sources or further reading. The level of detail varies, with child-friendly editions using simplified language and larger visual content, while adult editions cover topics in greater depth.

Relation to other media: In the digital era, information books expand into e-books and interactive apps, preserving the core aim of accessible, well-structured information while leveraging multimedia features.

Legacy and critique: The genre remains a staple for broad-based information access, though librarians and educators emphasize currency, accuracy, and evaluative skills to distinguish trustworthy titles from less reliable ones.