Chapter 1. An Overview of Information Visualization

Chapter 1 of Library Technology Reports (vol. 53, no. 2), “Information Visualization” Information visualization has become one of the prime emerging technologies due to its relevant applications as both an analytical tool and an aid to enhance and shape data interpretation and knowledge discovery in fields from the computer sciences to the humanities. With its advances and prevalence, the role of information visualization in a library setting has also gained increasing attention. The challenge exists in the knowledge that while information visualization has proved to be an effective method for data analysis, interpretation, and presentation, relatively limited resources have been provided that have a focus on serving the library community. An overview of information visualization, its application and practices in the library setting, real-world examples, and discussions of how it can be used to enhance day-to-day library work will be presented in chapter 1 of Library Technology Reports (vol. 53, no. 3), “Information Visualization.” Furthermore, insights into learning resources and opportunities for librarians and library professionals will be showcased.