WHAT IS INFORMATION?

Information is a crucial element in human communication and decision-making, and it serves as

the foundation for knowledge and understanding across various disciplines. At its core,
information can be defined as data that has been processed, organized, or structured in a way that
adds meaning and context. It is not just raw facts or figures; it is data that has been interpreted
and presented in a manner that is useful to its receiver. For instance, a sequence of numbers
without context holds little value, but when that sequence represents the temperature in a given
location over time, it becomes meaningful and informative.

In the context of information science, information is the result of processing raw data to create
knowledge. It is often categorized based on its structure, origin, or use. Information can be
classified into various types, such as factual, conceptual, or procedural, each serving distinct
purposes in different fields. For example, factual information provides details about specific
events or objects, while conceptual information helps in understanding theories or ideas.
Furthermore, the concept of information extends beyond simple facts; it encompasses how that
information is conveyed and interpreted by individuals or systems. Information plays an integral
role in decision-making, whether it is used by individuals to make personal choices or by
organizations to strategize and solve problems. It also plays a central role in various
technologies, enabling machines and systems to perform tasks, process inputs, and produce
outputs.

In today’s digital world, the definition of information has expanded due to the growing use of
technology. Information is no longer confined to physical or analog formats; it exists in digital
form, distributed across networks, databases, and cloud systems. This expansion has led to a rise
in the importance of information management, as the sheer volume of information available
requires careful organization, retrieval, and dissemination

Information is often seen as a bridge between data and knowledge. While data refers to raw,
unprocessed facts and figures, information is that data organized in a way that provides insights
or solutions. For example, a list of temperatures over time is just data, but when analyzed, it
becomes information that can reveal trends, such as seasonal changes. Knowledge, on the other

1
hand, is the understanding gained from information, and it evolves as people process, interpret,
and apply that information.

The concept of information also varies across disciplines. In information science, it refers to the
organization, management, and dissemination of information through various systems, like
databases, libraries, and digital repositories. In communication theory, information is seen as a
message that is conveyed from a sender to a receiver. In fields such as biology and physics,
information is sometimes considered in terms of the arrangement of matter or energy, reflecting
how systems store and transmit data to maintain or change their states.

Explanations and straightforward language help students grasp difficult concepts more easily. To
ensure that information is useful, it must be presented in a way that is simple, concise, and free
from ambiguity.

Consistency: Consistency refers to the reliability and uniformity of information. Good

information does not contradict itself and remains the same when presented over time or in
different contexts. Inconsistent information can create confusion, undermine trust, and lead to
conflicting decisions. For instance, a company’s financial reports should consistently follow
accounting principles and provide uniform data, so that stakeholders can trust the numbers.
Similarly, in legal or medical fields, consistent information is crucial to ensure that practices and
policies are applied uniformly. Consistency is essential for ensuring that information is reliable
and trustworthy.

Accessibility: Good information should be easily accessible to those who need it. Accessibility
refers to physical access and the ease with which information can be retrieved, understood, and
used. In the digital era, information should be available through various channels, whether
through online databases, cloud storage, or well-organized physical records. In business, having
easy access to real-time data on inventory, customer preferences, and financial performance
enables managers to make informed decisions quickly. In education, students should be able to
access learning materials and resources with ease. Therefore, good information must be
organized and stored in such a way that it can be retrieved and used efficiently.

Verifiability: Verifiability refers to the ability to check the accuracy of the information against
reliable sources or evidence. Good information is based on credible, reputable sources and can be

2
corroborated with facts or empirical data. For instance, in scientific research, findings must be
verifiable through experimentation and peer review. In journalism, the sources of information
must be transparent and trustworthy, allowing readers to verify the facts presented. Verifiable
information helps build trust, ensuring that users can rely on the data they are using to make
decisions.

Objectivity: Objectivity is a key characteristic of good information. Information should be free

from bias, personal opinion, or external influence, allowing users to interpret it without
distortion. In business, for example, objective financial reports are crucial for stakeholders to
make unbiased decisions about investments or strategies. In news reporting, objectivity ensures
that the information provided is balanced and fair, allowing the audience to form their own
conclusions. Objectivity is essential to ensure that information is trustworthy and not influenced
by subjective factors that could skew decision-making.

Cost-Effectiveness: While not often discussed in traditional definitions of good information,

cost-effectiveness is a practical characteristic that cannot be ignored. Good information should
provide value in relation to the resources expended to gather, process, and store it. In business,
companies must weigh the costs of gathering and analyzing information against the benefits it
will provide in terms of decision-making and strategy. In the public sector, governments should
consider the costs of information collection and dissemination to ensure that taxpayer resources
are being used efficiently. Information that is overly expensive to obtain or maintain may not be
worth the investment, particularly if it does not add significant value.

TYPES OF INFORMATION RESOURCES FOUND IN A LIBRARY

Libraries are treasure troves of knowledge, housing a vast array of information resources that
cater to the diverse needs of their users. From the timeless appeal of printed books to the cutting-
edge accessibility of digital resources, libraries offer an extensive collection of materials
designed to educate, inform, and entertain. These information hubs provide access to periodicals,
newspapers, reference materials, multimedia, government documents, special collections, maps,
theses, and dissertations, all meticulously curated to support academic research, professional
development, and personal growth. Understanding the types of information available in libraries

3
reveals their indispensable role in fostering a well-informed and literate society. Here is a
detailed exploration of the types of information you can find in a library:

1. Books: Books form the core of library collections and come in various forms:

 Fiction: Encompasses novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. Fiction books transport
readers into imaginative worlds, helping to develop empathy, enhance creativity, and
provide cultural insights. Genres include literary fiction, science fiction, fantasy, mystery,
romance, and more.

 Non-fiction: Includes a wide range of subjects such as history, science, biographies,

memoirs, self-help, travel, and cookbooks. Non-fiction books are essential for providing
factual information, detailed research, and practical advice. They support academic study,
professional development, and personal growth.

2. Periodicals: Periodicals are serial publications released at regular intervals:

 Magazines: Target general readers with interests in topics like fashion, technology, health,
politics, and lifestyle. They include feature articles, interviews, reviews, and photo essays.
Popular magazines include “National Geographic,” “Time,” and “Vogue.”

 Journals: Scholarly publications that focus on specific academic or professional fields.

Journals are peer-reviewed, ensuring the quality and credibility of the research articles
they publish. Examples include “The New England Journal of Medicine,” “Nature,” and
“The Journal of Psychology.”

3. Newspapers: Libraries offer access to both current and archival newspapers:

 Current Issues: Provide daily or weekly updates on news, politics, business, sports, and
entertainment. They keep readers informed about local, national, and international events.

 Archives: Historical newspapers offer a rich resource for researchers, historians, and
students. They provide primary source material for studying historical events, societal
changes, and cultural trends.

4. Reference Materials: Reference materials are designed to provide quick, authoritative

information:

4
 Dictionaries: Define words, their meanings, pronunciations, and usage. Examples include
“Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary” and the “Oxford English Dictionary.”

 Encyclopedias: Provide comprehensive summaries on a wide range of subjects. General

encyclopedias like “Encyclopedia Britannica” cover broad topics, while specialized
encyclopedias focus on specific fields such as science, art, or history.

 Atlases: Collections of maps that offer geographical information. They can be general,
providing a global perspective, or specialized, focusing on particular themes like climate,
population, or political boundaries.

 Directories: Listings of organizations, businesses, professionals, and services. Examples

include telephone directories, professional directories, and business directories.

5. Digital Resources: Digital resources provide convenient, on-demand access to a wide

range of information:

 E-books: Digital versions of printed books that can be read on computers, tablets, e-
readers, and smartphones. Platforms like OverDrive and Project Gutenberg offer
extensive e-book collections.

 Databases: Online collections of scholarly articles, research papers, reports, and statistical
data. Databases such as JSTOR, PubMed, Emeald, and ProQuest are essential for
academic research and professional work.

 Audiobooks: Recorded versions of books that are useful for auditory learners, individuals
with visual impairments, and those who prefer listening over reading. Services like
Audible and Librivox provide access to a wide range of audiobooks.

 Online Journals: Digital versions of academic and professional journals, allowing users to
access the latest research and developments in various fields.

6. Multimedia: Libraries also house multimedia resources that cater to different learning
styles and entertainment preferences:

5
 DVDs and CDs: Include educational videos, documentaries, movies, and music. They
support both learning and leisure activities, offering visual and auditory experiences.

 Microforms: Miniaturized copies of documents such as newspapers, periodicals, and

archival materials preserved on film. Microforms are used for long-term preservation and
space-saving storage.

7. Government Documents: Government documents provide official information and data

from governmental agencies:

 Reports: Detailed findings and analyses on various topics, including economic

conditions, public health, and environmental studies.

 Legislative Texts: Laws, regulations, and legislative proceedings that are crucial for legal
research and civic education.

 Statistics: Demographic, economic, and social data that are vital for research, policy-
making, and academic study. Examples include census data and labor market statistics.

8. Special Collections: Special collections contain unique and rare materials that require
careful preservation and handling:

 Archives: Collections of historical documents, letters, photographs, and records that

provide primary source material for research. Archives help preserve the history and
cultural heritage of communities.

 Rare Books: Include valuable, often old books that are preserved for their historical,
cultural, or literary significance. Examples are first editions, manuscripts, and books with
unique bindings or illustrations.

 Manuscripts: Original handwritten or typed documents that are significant for their
historical or literary value. Manuscripts may include letters, diaries, drafts of literary
works, and official records.

9. Maps: Libraries often maintain extensive collections of maps:

6
  Geographical Maps: Provide detailed information about physical features, political
boundaries, and topography of regions.

 Historical Maps: Show geographical knowledge and territorial boundaries from past eras,
offering insights into historical events and changes over time.

 Thematic Maps: Focus on specific themes such as population density, climate patterns, or
economic activities, providing valuable data for research and analysis.

10. Theses and Dissertations: These are in-depth research works produced by students as
part of their academic requirements. They offer original research, comprehensive
literature reviews, and detailed analyses, contributing valuable insights to their respective
fields. Libraries often store these works in physical or digital repositories.

11. Library Catalogues: Library catalogues are essential for navigating library collections.
They provide detailed information about each item, including title, author, subject, and
location. Catalogs can be accessed digitally or in print and are crucial for efficient
information retrieval.

Libraries are vital centers of information and learning, offering diverse resources that support
education, research, personal growth, and cultural preservation. By providing access to books,
periodicals, digital resources, multimedia, government documents, special collections, maps,
theses, and library catalogs, libraries continue to serve as indispensable pillars of knowledge in
our communities.