Multispecies Information Science

Multispecies Information Science offers a comprehensive overview of this subfield, shifting the focus beyond humans to explore the rich and complex realms of information and knowledge shared with animals, plants, microbes, technologies, and landscapes.

Bridging theory and practice, this volume traces the evolution of multispecies movement in information science, from Suzanne Briet’s provocative question 'Is an antelope a document?' to inclusive approaches informed by posthumanism, queer studies, disability studies, and postcolonialism. Penned by information scientists from around the world, the chapters span topics from the foundations of information to its pedagogy, design, technology, and services. Their ideas will help readers to discover fresh and compassionate avenues of participation and engagement with other species in their own information practices and research. By embracing a multispecies approach, this book aims to transform readers’ understanding of information and life, recognising that this perspective is fundamentally an ethical turn.

Multispecies Information Science integrates insights from areas such as documentation, information behaviour, indigenous knowledge, and information technology. It facilitates dialogue between information scientists who are interested in a multispecies perspective. This book is essential reading for researchers, practitioners, and students in Library and Information Science. It also speaks to those in anthropology, environmental humanities, animal–computer interaction, and human–animal studies.

Niloofar Solhjoo is a lecturer in the School of Information and Communication Studies at Charles Sturt University, Australia. Her research focuses on information experience, human-animal and multi-species relationships.