Introduction
In the field of library and information science, documents are the carriers of recorded knowledge. These documents can be in various formats and serve different purposes. Broadly, they are classified into two categories: conventional documents and non-conventional documents. Understanding the difference between them helps librarians and information professionals manage collections effectively.
Conventional Documents
Conventional documents are those which are traditionally used and published in printed form. These documents follow a standard publishing process, are widely available, and can be found in most libraries.
Examples of Conventional Documents:
- Books
- Journals and Magazines
- Newspapers
- Theses and Dissertations
- Government Reports and Publications
Features of Conventional Documents:
- Printed on paper
- Commercially published
- Registered with ISBN/ISSN
- Available in bookstores and libraries
Non-conventional Documents
Non-conventional documents, also known as grey literature or semi-published documents, are materials that do not follow the traditional publishing route. They are not widely distributed or may be unpublished. Despite this, they are valuable sources of unique information, especially in research and specialized studies.
Examples of Non-conventional Documents:
- Technical Reports
- Conference Papers and Proceedings
- Patents
- Standards and Specifications
- Manuscripts
- Internal Memos
- Field Surveys and Data Sheets
Features of Non-conventional Documents:
- Often unpublished or self-published
- Limited circulation
- May not have ISBN/ISSN
- Difficult to find in regular libraries
Importance in Information Services
Both types of documents are important for libraries and information centers:
- Conventional documents are easy to access and are commonly used for general knowledge and academic learning.
- Non-conventional documents provide up-to-date, specialized, or rare information that may not be available in books or journals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, conventional and non-conventional documents both play significant roles in providing information. While conventional documents are widely published and used, non-conventional documents offer unique and current insights. A well-equipped library must have both types to meet the diverse needs of its users.