One needs a fairly broad definition of "information science" in order to consider applications of activity theory in the field, and, fortunately, as evidenced by the range of topics AEIST has covered over the years, the editors have encouraged a wide definition. As we shall see, to restrict the definition in any way would result in a very short chapter indeed. Consequently, this review ranges widely, from aspects of psychology (where the theory was first formulated) through education, to information systems and human-computer interaction, digital library development, and information-seeking behavior. The paucity of contributions in what might be labeled "library and information science" is curious. It is common in this broad field to identify "activities" of numerous kinds in academic and practitioner writing. Reference service, information seeking, cataloging, children's services, and online searching are all described as "activities" and yet "activity theory" has made very little impact.
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