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This study explores the evolution of Information Science with a focus on the conceptual development and significance of data and research data within the field. Triggered by the challenge of the "information explosion," the research adopts a qualitative, exploratory approach based on a bibliographic review of Brazilian and international literature from databases such as BRAPCI and Google Scholar. The findings indicate that the concept of data has been continually redefined, emerging as a fundamental element in the transformation of information into knowledge. Research data are characterized as essential records produced, collected, or utilized in scientific investigations, playing a crucial role in the validation of research outcomes. The Brazilian scholarly discourse underscores the importance of research data in advancing open science, highlighting contributions from key authors in the field. The study concludes that the evolving understanding of research data reflects broader epistemological and technological shifts in Information Science. A future comparative analysis between Brazilian and U.S. approaches to research data is suggested to deepen the understanding of these developments.