We suffer from noise . We search for relief. We need something far more musical - information combining harmoniously to deliver a melody, a song, a message or a meaning. Noise is a bother when we seek insight. Noise brings us chaos . . .
Noise offers distraction, distortion and distress.
This article will focus on the importance of achieving coherence in the face of information abundance. Coherence supplies the ties that bind information into intelligible packages and the links of meaning that set us free. The article will also explore the essential roles of public librarians, school librarians and others as they help young people and elders find their ways across this daunting new information landscape. Too little has been written about moving beyond information to understanding. Too few have acknowledged the dangers of eliminating information support services during a time of information flooding.