Library and Information Science Course Details - Fees, Subjects, Syllabus, Duration, Eligibility, Career Scope

What is Library and Information Science

Library and Information Science (LIS) is an academic field focused on the management, organisation, and handling of information resources in libraries and other information centres. It covers topics like cataloguing, digital libraries, information retrieval, and the use of technology to facilitate access to information. Students gain knowledge of the many information technologies and instruments that facilitate the arrangement and accessibility of digital and physical collections.

The course reflects on the changing field of information science by including classes on cutting-edge technologies like big data, artificial intelligence, and user experience design. Students receive instruction in information literacy, digital curation, and research techniques. The curriculum includes hands-on training and internships in a variety of library settings, including public libraries, academic institutions, and corporate information centres.

Around 192 colleges offer the Library and Information Science course in India. Graduates of Library and Information Science are offered job opportunities in profiles like Librarian, Archivist, Information Specialist and Teachers. These profiles are offered in National and State Libraries, Various universities, Schools, Colleges, Institutions, Tata Consultancy Services and Lawyers Associations for an average package of Rs. 6.3 LPA.

Library and Information Science Course Details

Specialisation or Similar Ones

Library and Information Science as a field offers various specialisations that cater to the diverse interests of the candidates. These fields focus on the organisation, preservation, and retrieval of information in both traditional and digital formats to support learning and research. Some of the popular specialisations offered in the field are mentioned in the table below.

Top Private Library and Information Science Colleges in India with Fees

Private institutes charge a much higher tuition fee than Government institutions. These private colleges provide quality education and technologically advanced facilities to students. Many Indian private colleges provide various undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Library and Information Science. Some of the top private universities and colleges for Library and Information Science and their fees are discussed in the table below:

Top Government Library and Information Science Colleges in India with Fees

Many top Government colleges in India provide Library and Information Science courses. Attending a government college is less expensive than attending a private college. These colleges are well known for their high academic standards and affordable fees throughout India. The following are some of the best government colleges that provide Library and Information Science courses:

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Library and Information Science

Those interested in pursuing a course or a degree in Library and Information Science need to fulfil the eligibility details required by the colleges. For undergraduate degrees, students generally need to complete their 10+2. For PG degrees, they require a bachelor’s degree in similar or related disciplines. The eligibility details for Library and Information Science courses are mentioned below.

Eligibility Criteria for UG Courses

Candidates who wish to pursue Library and Information Science at an undergraduate level must satisfy certain eligibility criteria to get admission into a college of their choice. These admission conditions may vary by the institute. However, Some of the most common eligibility conditions to get admission into the course are listed below:

• Aspirants must have completed their 10+2 in any stream from a recognised board. 
• They must score a minimum of 50 per cent marks in their stream to get admission to a course of their choice. 
• Students may have to appear for entrance examinations if prescribed by their respective colleges.

Top Entrance Exams for UG Courses

Aspiring candidates need to appear for certain entrance examinations before applying for admission. Examinations can be conducted at the university, state, or national level. Some colleges may conduct university-specific examinations for Library and Information Science courses. In the table below, we have provided the details of a popular examination for UG degrees.

Eligibility Criteria for PG Courses

The eligibility criteria to pursue a postgraduate degree in Library and Information Science varies by institute. Students who have completed their undergraduate in Library and Information Science can further pursue their post-graduation in the same field. Aspirants must fulfil the required conditions to get admission into a college of their choice. Some basic eligibility requirements are listed below:

• Candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science or a relevant field. 
• They must have completed their degrees with at least 55 per cent from a recognised institute in India. 
• Aspirants may have to take PG Entrance exams as conducted by academic institutes.

Top Entrance Exams for PG Courses

Candidates who aspire to pursue their post-graduation must appear for certain relevant entrance examinations. Most colleges consider the entrance test results along with the merit scores of aspirants for admissions. Students are required to clear the cutoff of these entrance examinations to get admitted into a college of their choice. Some of the examinations are as follows.

Required Skillset for Library and Information Science

Effective management, organisation, and provision of access to information by Library and Information Science professionals necessitates a combination of traditional and modern skills. These include strong communication, research abilities, familiarity with emerging technologies like data analytics, digital preservation, and cybersecurity. Mentioned below are some of the important attributes and skills required for the Library and Information Science field.

• Digital Literacy
• Critical Thinking
• Problem-Solving
• Technical Skills
• Data Analysis
• Customer Service
• Interpersonal Skills