A 24-Year Bibliometric Analysis of the Journal Information Research: Insights from CiteSpace

Abstract

Introduction. This study employs a bibliometric methodology, utilising CiteSpace 6.2.R4 as an analytical tool to examine the evolution of the journal Information Research over the past 24 years from the multivariate, time-phased, and dynamic perspective.

Method.  The journal was analysed by using CiteSpace to perform co-occurrence analysis, co-citation analysis, cluster analysis, and burst detection.

Analysis. By analysing 2,180 articles indexed in the Web of Science database, it uncovered publication trends, research hotspots, and thematic evolution within the journal.

Results. The findings of bibliometric study highlighted the journal's significant contributions to information behaviour, information retrieval, information management, and digital libraries. As an open-access journal, the Information Research journal has played a vital role in advancing both theoretical and practical dimensions of information science and information management.

Conclusions. This study presents the first analysis of the academic contributions of the journal Information Research. It highlights the journal’s growing global influence, its core position within Librarianship and Information Science academia and its success in bridging disciplines through innovative research. These findings underscore the journals’ foundational role in shaping the past and future of information science.