• Power : A Brief Introduction For Libraries And Information Organizations

    Author(s):
    William Buck (see profile)
    Date:
    2019
    Group(s):
    Feminist Humanities, Library & Information Science, Philosophy
    Subject(s):
    Library science, Information science, Philosophy
    Item Type:
    Article
    Tag(s):
    Library and information science
    Permanent URL:
    http://dx.doi.org/10.17613/61en-2t13
    Abstract:
    Social organizations, institutions, governments, and bureaucracies are all manifestations of power distribution. Many contemporary theories on power are at least partly informed by notions that were introduced in General Systems Theory. Public libraries are open systems. In an average organization, a hierarchy divides tasks, sets rules, and defines levels of information access. Considerations about strategy and strategic motives can be assessed from a variety of conflicting viewpoints. One major theoretical bifurcation that can be made in regards to power is the “Power to” which is facilitative and the “Power over” which is prohibitive. Providing information that is free and readily accessible is an important contributing factor in the obtainment of personal and professional goals. A wide spectrum exists between the polar tactics of making all information available and tightly managing the release of information. Although profit is not one of the goals of the library, the pursuit of organizational excellence and the addition of value to the community that it serves is.
    Metadata:
    xml
    Status:
    Published
    Last Updated:
    4 years ago
    License:
    All Rights Reserved
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