The term information science first appeared in the guise of information scientist. Particularly in industry during recent decades, some qualified scientists moved out of research, development of production into a new occupational role, that of providing an active information service to their colleagues. They regarded themselves as information scientists rather than research scientists. As this kind of work expanded and became formalized the need was seen to provide training for those who would enter the occupation. In time, the content of this training came to be called 'information science'.

p. 9-11. - Information Science in Theory and Practice (1987)