Abstracting: information literacy on a professional level

Author: Koltay, Tibor

Source: Journal of Documentation, Volume 65, Number 5, 2009 , pp. 841-855(15)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Abstract:

Purpose - This paper aims to argue for a conception of information literacy (IL) that goes beyond the abilities of finding information as it includes communication skills. An important issue in this is that abstractors exercise IL on a professional level. Design/methodology/approach - By stressing the importance of the fact that information literacy extends towards verbal communication the paper takes an interdisciplinary approach, the main component of which is linguistics. Findings - It is found that verbal communication and especially analytic-synthetic writing activities play an important role in information literacy at the level of everyday language use, semi-professional and professional summarising of information. The latter level characterises abstracting. Originality/value - The paper adds to the body of knowledge about information literacy in general and in connection with communication and abstracting.

Keywords: Abstracting; Communication; Information literacy

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/00220410910983146

Publication date: 2009-09-04