informationsvetenskap

Informationsvetenskap is an interdisciplinary field that studies how information is created, organized, stored, retrieved, disseminated, and used. It integrates library and information science with elements from computer science, cognitive science, linguistics and sociology to understand information phenomena in organizations and society at large. The discipline addresses both theoretical questions about information behavior and knowledge organization, as well as practical design and evaluation of information systems and services.

Historically, informationsvetenskap grew out of library science and documentation movements and expanded with the advent of databases, information retrieval, and the digital environment. Today it encompasses the study of how information is produced, indexed, searched, shared, preserved and used across various media and contexts, including libraries, archives, museums, and digital platforms. The field emphasizes user needs and the socio-technical aspects of information access.

Core areas include information behavior (how people seek and use information), information retrieval and search systems, knowledge organization (taxonomy, metadata, ontologies), information architecture and system design, digital libraries and repositories, data management and governance, and human–computer interaction. Ethical, legal and policy dimensions such as privacy and information equality are also central, along with education and literacy in handling information.

Research methods encompass empirical studies, experiments, surveys, qualitative approaches, bibliometrics, and usability testing. Careers span libraries, information management, data stewardship, digital services, archives, and ICT roles. Informationsvetenskap aims to improve information access, understanding, and responsible use in diverse settings.