Information Overload, Stress, and Burnout: The Need for Contemplative Approaches in LIS

Abstract

The information age, despite its undeniable opportunities and benefits, is also rife with stress, information overload, and anxiety. Given this context, LIS unfortunately remains  largely silent about these affective concerns. One  way to address these concerns is for LIS to  embrace contemplative approaches as a mode of inquiry. As such, the paper offers a preliminary sketch of a “contemplative LIS” to allow LIS scholars and professionals to more effectively address issues such as overload and burnout. This exploration is based on the following four themes: 1) Attention; 2) Relationships; 3) Reflection; and 4) Action.