Bibliometrics, Scientometrics, Infometrics, and Librametrics

Abdullah, M. (2020). Bibliometrics, Scientometrics, Infometrics, and Librametrics. Open Educational Resources on English Language Teaching. Retrieved October 10, 2025, from https://www.muhaiminabdullah.com/synth/bibliometrics-scientometrics-infometrics-librametrics

Bibliometrics, scientometrics, infometrics, and librametrics are analogous terms that represent measuring techniques in library and Information science that are mainly applied in solving various problems pertaining to library and Information sciences1. In Nowadays context, bibliometrics, scientometrics, infometrics, and librametrics are popularly opted by scholars and researchers as a shortcut to meet the demands for publication or to increase the quantity of academic journal publications, as well as to avoid field research processes that are time-consuming and exhausting. The statement is, of course, controversial and taboo to discuss openly. However, it has become a universal law of nature, carried out to alleviate the pressure of high publication demands.

Bibliometrics

Bibliometrics refers to the quantitative analysis of research literature, based upon citations, and can be used to evaluate the impact on the academic community of a research paper, an individual researcher, a research group or institution, or a journal. Librametry refers to a quantitative analysis of various facets of library activities; and library documents by application of mathematical and statistical calculus to seek solution to library problems. Scientometrics concerns with the quantitative features and characteristics of science and scientific research which the emphasis is placed on investigations in which the development and mechanism of science are studied by statistical mathematical methods. Infometrics refers to the study of quantitative aspects of information including the production dissemination and use of all forms of information, regardless of its form or origin2.

Bibliometrics is defined as the study and measurement of the publication patterns of all forms of written communication and their authors3.

Scientometrics

Hystorically, scientometrics was led by such fundamental questions 'why should we not turn the tools of science on science itself?' and 'why not measure and generalize, make hypotheses, and derive conclusions?'4. Those questions have led how scientometrics are generated nowadays5.

Infometrics

Infometrics is a field of study that focuses on the quantitative analysis of information. It examines how information is produced, distributed, and consumed within various systems. This discipline draws upon concepts from information science, mathematics, and statistics to measure patterns and trends in data and knowledge flows. Infometrics often overlaps with related areas such as bibliometrics, scientometrics, and webometrics, each addressing specific contexts in which information operates.

One of the key goals of infometrics is to understand the dynamics of information dissemination. By analyzing citation patterns, publication trends, and usage statistics, researchers can uncover the underlying structures of communication within academic, professional, or digital environments. This helps identify influential works, emerging topics, and shifts in knowledge production across disciplines. It also supports the development of indicators used in research evaluation and policy-making.

Librametrics

Librametrics is a specialized area within information science that focuses on the quantitative analysis of library operations and services. It aims to measure the efficiency, effectiveness, and impact of library functions through statistical and mathematical techniques. This includes the study of user behavior, resource usage, collection development, and service performance in various types of libraries.

One of the primary objectives of librametrics is to support evidence-based decision-making in library management. It helps in assessing how library resources are utilized and how services meet the needs of different user groups. By analyzing data on circulation, cataloging, reference services, and user satisfaction, librarians can identify areas for improvement and justify budget allocations or policy changes. The findings from librametric studies contribute to enhancing the strategic planning and operational effectiveness of libraries.

In the digital era, librametrics has adapted to include the analysis of electronic resource usage and online service delivery. It examines metrics related to digital databases, e-books, institutional repositories, and virtual user interactions. The scope of librametrics now extends beyond traditional physical collections and encompasses digital environments where library users engage with information. This evolution ensures that librametrics remains a relevant and essential tool for evaluating and improving library services in contemporary settings.

Source: Synthesis and Elaboration


  1. 10.1515/libr.1992.42.2.75 ↩︎

  2. Sangam, S.L. (n.d.). Tools and Methods for Science Outputs Evaluation (Unit 1. Librametry, Bibliometrics, Scientometrics, Informetrics and Webometrics: Historical Development). Retrieved in October 1, 2024 from https://docslib.org/doc/8568439/unit-1-librametry-bibliometrics-scientometrics-informetrics-and-webometrics-historical-development ↩︎

  3. Potter, W. G. (1981). Introduction to bibliometrics. Lib. Trends 30, 5-7 ↩︎

  4. Price, D. D. (1963). Little Science, Big Science. New York: Columbia University Press. ↩︎

  5. 10.1002/meet.1450390103 ↩︎