Exploring the Information-Seeking Behavior of Black Mothers with MLIS Degrees: A Phenomenological Study Through the Lens of Small World Theory

This presentation will introduce the conceptual framework for a phenomenological study exploring the life course information behavior of Black mothers with Master’s degrees in Library and Information Science (MLIS). Grounded in the Life Course Perspective, the study examines how these women’s experiences over time shape their interactions with information. The research will integrate Chatman’s Small World Theory to analyze how their social and professional networks influence their access to, use of, and interpretation of information across different life stages. This session will explore the dynamic interplay between lived experiences, social structures, and information behavior, highlighting the role of open access frameworks and inclusive information practices in addressing barriers to resource accessibility. The discussion will lay the foundation for future empirical research on the evolving information needs of Black mothers with MLIS degrees.