Librametry to Bibliometrics to Informetrics

Application of quantitative techniques to library and bibliographical work was known as Statistical Bibliography. As early as 1948, Dr. S.R. Ranganathan suggested at the Aslib Conference in Lemington Spa, that it was necessary for Librarians to develop librametry on the lines of bibliometry, econometry and psychometry since many of the matter connected with library work and services involved large numbers. Despite his attempts to define the scope of librametry, the field did not develop until early 1970s. Since 1969, the subject has come to be known as Bibliometrics. The scope and definition of bibliometrics suggest that it may be defined as quantitative treatment of properties of recorded discourse and behaviour pertaining to it.