The Principle of Compound Media.

This article discusses the theme of digital media and their role in reference and user services, which many of the articles focus on in this issue of "Reference & User Services Quarterly." Digital media significantly contributes to information overload. The Principle of Compound Media is a concept stating that information overload is a function of the volume of information available as well as the variety of formats in which information is available. Topics that are mentioned include print on paper and the implications of the Principle of Compound Media for information and knowledge professionals.