This paper discusses the evolution from the vocational emphasis of librarianship to a new research and higher education oriented concept of library and information science, focusing on changes in the Nordic countries, and Sweden in particular. Recognizing the strong interrelationship between analytical reviews for policy decisions, research and development work, and education for research, the library and information science research situation in Sweden is described as an example of a general complex pattern. Numerous Swedish attempts to design control mechanisms for a coordinated national library and information science program and to institutionalize education for research in library and information science are presented. In conclusion, it is suggested that the thrust of development lies in the information science end of the library and information science spectrum, and that librarians, library schools, and funding agencies should actively participate in furthering the development of information science. (45 references and notes) (Author/EW)