Affective issues in library and information science systems work: A content analysis

Increasing attention to affective issues is evident in human information behavior work in library and information science (LIS) as well as in a wide range of other disciplines. However, it is questionable whether the LIS systems-oriented literature reflects any serious interest in affective issues such as emotion or confidence, as these affect information behavior. This study analyzes systems work in LIS to determine the relative interest in affective issues being shown. Content analysis of articles published between 1999 and 2003 indicates that systems work in LIS pays little attention to affective variables. In addition, insufficient intellectual access to affective issues is provided by the primary indexing services.