Research conducted in library schools

Abstract

Library and information science research in library schools, apart from personal research of faculty, has been characterized as non-cumulative fragmentary, weak, and oriented to immediate practical needs. The record is examined and this criticism found justified in part. In the recent past library research efforts have been strengthened as they have become more involved in extending the boundaries of knowledge. To develop a stronger research tradition in library schools will require not only more research-trained faculty but also a number of other changes in academic policies and procedures, including productive interaction between formal research centers and teaching activity. It is concluded that library research in the future, whether conducted by library schools, libraries, or by other organizations, can escape from its legacy of past inadequacy only through improved planning and co-ordination at all levels.