IGNOU Library Courses (CLIS, BLIS, MLIS) 2025 : Eligibility, Fees, How To Apply, Structure

IGNOU Admissions for Bachelors, Masters, Certificate and Diploma programs for Academic Session for January 2025 are open now. Last Date to Apply is 31st January 2025.
Check out complete details on IGNOU Admission process here.

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), established in 1985, has emerged as a pioneer in distance education in India. Among its vast array of courses, the programs offered in Library and Information Science stand out for their relevance and scope. These courses are designed to cater to the evolving needs of the information society, training students in managing, organizing, and disseminating information in a variety of settings. This article provides a comprehensive overview of IGNOU’s Library and Information Science courses, their curriculum, and the opportunities they offer.

Introduction to IGNOU Library and Information Science

Library and Information Science (LIS) is an interdisciplinary field that blends the study of libraries, information management, and information technology. Professionals in this field are responsible for organizing and managing information resources in libraries, archives, information centers, and other institutions. With the advent of the digital age, the role of librarians and information scientists has expanded beyond traditional library settings, making this field more dynamic and essential than ever.

IGNOU’s Library and Information Science Programs

IGNOU offers several programs in Library and Information Science, catering to different levels of education and professional experience. These programs include:

1. Certificate in Library and Information Science (CLIS)
2. Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS)
3. Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)

Each of these programs is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of Library and Information Science.

1. Certificate in Library and Information Science (CLIS)

The Certificate in Library and Information Science (CLIS) is an entry-level program designed for individuals who want to start their career in the field of library and information science. It is also suitable for those who are already working in libraries but lack formal training.

Overview

Name of the Institute	Indira Gandhi National Open University
Name of the Course	Certificate in Library and Information Science
Programme Code	CLIS
School of Studies	School of Social Sciences (SOSS)
Eligibility	10+2 or its equivalent
Duration of Course	6 Months
Admission Validity	2 Years
Medium	English /  Students can write assignments and exam in Hindi Language also
Fees	Rs 3000 (Full program)
Mode	ODL (Online Distance Learning) Program
Admission Dates (January 2025)	OPEN till 31st Jan 2025
Course Prospectus	Download Here
Admission Link	Click here
Admission Type	Direct Admission (No Entrance test)

Curriculum
The curriculum of the CLIS program covers the basics of library science. It includes subjects like:

• Library, Information, and Society: This course introduces students to the role of libraries in society and the various types of libraries.
• Library Classification Theory and Practice: Students learn the principles of library classification and the techniques for classifying documents.
• Library Cataloguing Theory and Practice: This course covers the theory and practice of cataloging, an essential skill for organizing library resources.
• Library Management: Students are introduced to the principles and practices of library management, including staffing, budgeting, and library automation.

Career Opportunities
After completing the CLIS program, students can work as library assistants, junior librarians, or documentation assistants in various libraries and information centers.

2. Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS)

The Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) is a one-year degree program designed for students who aspire to become professional librarians and information scientists.

Overview

Name of the Institute	Indira Gandhi National Open University
Name of the Course	Bachelor of Library and Information Science
Programme Code	BLIS
School of Studies	School of Social Sciences (SOSS)
Eligibility	Bachelors degree with 50% marks for General and 45% for reserved category. OR Bachelors degree with Diploma (one year) in Library  Science OR Bachelors degree with 2 years of working experience in Library and Information Centre
Duration of Course	1 Year
Admission Validity	2 Years
Medium	English
Fees	Rs 8,700 (Full program)
Mode	ODL (Online Distance Learning) Program
Admission Dates (January 2025)	OPEN till 31st Jan 2025
Course Prospectus	Download Here
Admission Link	Click here
Admission Type	Direct Admission (No Entrance test)

Curriculum
The BLIS program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of library science, including:

• Library and Society: This course explores the role of libraries in the social, educational, and cultural development of society.
• Library Classification and Cataloguing: Advanced training in classification and cataloging techniques is provided.
• Information Sources, Services, and Systems: Students learn about different information sources and how to provide effective information services.
• Information Technology: The course covers the application of IT in libraries, including digital libraries, e-resources, and online information retrieval systems.
• Library Management and Research Methods: Students are trained in modern library management practices and research methodologies.

Career Opportunities
Graduates of the BLIS program can pursue careers as professional librarians, information officers, knowledge managers, and archivists in libraries, academic institutions, government organizations, and corporate sectors.

3. Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)

The Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) is an advanced degree program aimed at students who wish to specialize in the field and take up leadership roles in the library and information science profession.

Overview

Name of the Institute	Indira Gandhi National Open University
Name of the Course	Master of Library and Information Science
Programme Code	MLIS
School of Studies	School of Social Sciences (SOSS)
Eligibility	Bachelor’s Degree in Library and/or Information Science or Associateship from NISCAIR or DRTC
Duration of Course	1 Year
Admission Validity	2 Years
Medium	English
Fees	Rs 11,500 (Full program)
Mode	ODL (Online Distance Learning) Program
Admission Dates (January 2025)	OPEN till 31st Jan 2025
Course Prospectus	Coming Soon
Admission Link	Click here
Admission Type	Direct Admission (No Entrance test)

Curriculum
The MLIS program offers an in-depth curriculum that includes advanced topics such as:

• Information, Communication, and Society: This course delves into the relationship between information, communication, and society, with a focus on the role of libraries in the information age.
• Information Systems Management: Students learn about the management of information systems, including database management, information retrieval systems, and digital libraries.
• Research Methods and Statistical Techniques: This course provides training in research methods and statistical techniques relevant to library and information science.
• Dissertation: Students are required to complete a dissertation on a topic of their choice, which provides them with an opportunity to conduct original research in the field.

Career Opportunities
Graduates of the MLIS program can pursue advanced career opportunities such as chief librarians, information managers, knowledge management consultants, and academic librarians in universities, research institutions, government agencies, and corporate organizations.

IGNOU’s Flexible Learning Approach

One of the key advantages of pursuing a Library and Information Science course from IGNOU is its flexible learning approach. The university’s distance education model allows students to study at their own pace and convenience. This is particularly beneficial for working professionals who wish to upgrade their qualifications while continuing their jobs. IGNOU provides comprehensive study materials, online resources, and support services to ensure that students receive quality education, irrespective of their location.

The Library and Information Science courses offered by IGNOU provide students with a solid foundation and advanced knowledge in the field, preparing them for a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you are a fresh graduate, a working professional, or someone looking to make a career change, IGNOU’s programs offer the flexibility and quality education needed to succeed in the ever-evolving field of Library and Information Science. With the growing importance of information management in today’s digital age, a qualification in Library and Information Science from IGNOU can open doors to a fulfilling and impactful career.