Identifying Topics for Library and Information Science Research and Publication

Students and practitioners of library and information science often look for research topics about which they can write a paper and/or publish. When in that situation, identifying a topic is not as easy as one might think.

When I was a graduate student in library school, I remember wrestling back and fourth with different topics, trying to choose one for writing a required research paper. I probably drove my advisor and others to distraction trying to find a topic that I thought was great.

In frustration and out of hope, I wrote to Professor F. Wilfrid Lancaster who was at the University of Illinois Graduate School of Library and Information Science. At the time, I was in a class about information storage and retrieval at the University of Minnesota that used one of his books. Today, WorldCat shows 112 books by Professor Lancaster.

In my letter, I asked for advice about a research topic. He answered my letter with several suggestions. His kindness made a lasting impression on me. My guess is that he has received hundreds of similar letters over the years of his distinguished career as a library educator.

I often receive e-mails and letters from students, practicing librarians, or others who have read one of my articles, used one the books I have written, or who have heard a talk that I have given, or who have otherwise learned about one of the creative, innovative projects that have come out of the Ball State University Libraries. Sometimes the person tells me what I missed or left out, or comments why s/he agrees or disagrees, or the person provides additional examples that illustrate a point or concept. Very often, a person writes to ask for suggestions or ideas for beginning or expanding a research project.

To help persons who are looking for topics to research and write about, I have created a listing. It is neither exhaustive nor complete; yet, I hope it is useful. Check it out at
www.bsu.edu/libraries/ahafner/awh-th-researchtopics.htm and feel free to share your comments with me, AHafner@bsu.edu.