Department of Library and Information Sciences

Department of Library and Information Sciences is a other institution in Manipal, established in 2011. The Department of Library and Information Sciences at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in Karnataka is one of India's oldest and most respected institutions for LIS education. Established in 1968, the department has been instrumental in shaping professional librarians and information specialists for over five decades. Manipal is a residential campus university located in coastal Karnataka, about 50 km from Mangalore city, offering a unique blend of academic rigor and pastoral campus life. The Department of Library and Information Sciences has evolved significantly from its traditional library science roots to embrace modern digital information management, knowledge management systems, and emerging technologies like AI and machine learning in libraries. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the rapidly changing information landscape, covering both theoretical foundations and practical skills required by modern information professionals. Academic Programs: The department offers Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science (BLISc) as a 4-year undergraduate program with approximately 80 seats per batch. At the postgraduate level, it offers Master of Library and Information Science (MLISc) with specializations in Digital Libraries, Knowledge Management, and Information Architecture. The doctoral program (PhD) in Library and Information Science attracts researchers interested in LIS research methodologies, information literacy, and digital transformations in libraries. Research Strengths: The department maintains strong research focus areas including digital library development, information organization, knowledge management systems, user studies, library automation, and information ethics. Faculty members are actively engaged in UGC-sponsored research projects and have published in national and international journals. The department has established collaborative research initiatives with other universities and information centers across India and internationally. Campus Life and Infrastructure: Manipal's campus is exceptionally well-developed with modern library facilities including the Central Library with over 800,000 volumes, access to international databases, and state-of-the-art digital archives. The department has a well-stocked library with specialized collections in LIS, dedicated computer labs with modern software for cataloging, metadata creation, and digital asset management. The campus offers comfortable hostels for both male and female students with attached mess facilities serving quality vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Placement Record: Graduates of the LIS program have consistently secured placements in government and private sector organizations. They work as professional librarians in university and academic libraries, public library systems, corporate information centers, news archives, digital heritage organizations, and knowledge management firms. Many alumni have moved into senior management positions in libraries and information services across India and abroad. The placement rate typically hovers around 85-90%, with some graduates pursuing higher education or entrepreneurial ventures in the information technology and publishing sectors. Notable Alumni: The department has produced several distinguished alumni who have contributed significantly to the library profession, including Dr. B.S. Garg (former director of National Library of India), Dr. Harsha V. (knowledge management expert in IT sector), and several university librarians currently heading major institutional libraries across India. What Makes It Unique: Manipal's LIS department stands out due to its holistic approach combining traditional librarianship with cutting-edge information technology. The residential campus ensures active engagement between faculty and students beyond classroom hours. The department maintains strong industry connections with libraries, archives, museums, and IT companies, facilitating meaningful internships and placements. The faculty comprises experienced professionals with doctoral degrees and international exposure, ensuring curriculum remains relevant to global standards. The location in coastal Karnataka provides a peaceful, focused environment conducive to academic excellence while maintaining connectivity to major Indian cities. Who Should Apply: This program is ideal for students passionate about information organization, knowledge management, and digital transformation. It suits those interested in working in libraries, archives, museums, corporate information centers, or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures in information services. The program attracts both students immediately after 12th grade (through BLISc) and graduates from any discipline seeking a second career in information science (through MLISc). Those interested in research, academic careers, or international opportunities in information science will find the department's research culture particularly rewarding. The program is particularly suitable for students who value intellectual challenge, cultural diversity, and a well-structured campus environment.