What question did this study set out to answer?

The study aims to assess developments and challenges in library and information science education in India.

May 18, 2026Open Access

Library and Information Science Education in India: A Critical Assessment

SGShabir Ahmad GanaieUniversity of Kashmir

Key Points

The study aims to assess developments and challenges in library and information science education in India.
Data collected from various library science schools across different levels and courses
Evaluated infrastructure, faculty qualifications, learning resources, and ICT tools used
Identified variations in curriculum and student selection modes among LIS schools
Heterogeneity exists in LIS schools regarding affiliation to university faculties
Diverse student intake capacities and differing modes of admission to LIS courses
Variation in curriculum structure, with some schools offering truncated courses and others integrated programs

Abstract

Purpose: To discuss the developments that have occurred in the discipline of library and information science in India and the challenges posed by these developments to the library and information science schools. Design/methodology/approach: Data regarding present study was obtained from different library science schools offering different courses at different levels, infrastructure, faculty, learning resources, ICT related tools etc. Findings: There is heterogeneity existing in the LIS discipline in terms of their affiliation to a particular faculty in different universities. Student’s intake capacity also differs and even mode of selecting students to LIS courses also varies. There is no homogeneity in the curriculum adopted by different LIS departments in the country. Even some schools are offering one year truncated Bachelor’s and one year Masters courses while others have adopted two year integrated Masters courses in library and information science. Practical Implications: findings of the study will help in taking concrete steps by apex body like UGC, MHRD etc in providing guidelines for achieving uniformity and homogeneity in the educational sector of LIS profession. As such study will provide inputs for enhancing the quality of education in LIS profession. Originality/value: Although LIS schools in India have developed on many fronts and are performing a commendable job in producing competent professionals for managing the libraries and information centers but there are some lacunas existing in the present LIS education scenario in India. These lacunas are identified and appropriate measures have been suggested in order to improve the quality of LIS education. Some new ideas have been provided for redefining the LIS profession in accordance with the development in Information and communication technology. Entrepreneurship in LIS in India is still considered as a new concept. Keywords: Library Science; Information Science; LIS education, LIS schools, India Article Type: Descriptive, View Point.

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