M.Lib.I.Sc (Master of Library and Information Science), is a post-graduation program that trains students in organizing, managing and preserving the information in both physical and digital formats. The M.Lib.I.Sc course duration can vary between 1 year to 2 years according to the colleges. This includes subjects such as Library, Communication and Society; Information Systems and Services; Knowledge Organisation, and many more.
To be eligible, candidates must have a bachelor's degree in Library Science or a related field with 50% - 60% marks from a recognized university. Some universities may also accept graduates from other subjects along with relevant backgrounds. Admission is usually through merit-based or entrance examination and interview.
The course fee is usually between INR 4,200 - INR 1,05,000, depending on the type (private or government) and facilities of the institution. Some of the institutions offering this course include Pondicherry University, Panjab University, KSOU Mysuru, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and many more.
A graduate can pursue a career as a Librarian, Assistant Librarian, Information Analyst, and many more. Job opportunities are available in educational institutions, public libraries, corporate knowledge centers, digital media firms and government departments. Recruiters include Delhi Public School, Podar International School, XIM University, ODM Public School, in which salary may range in between INR 2 - 9 LPA, which may increase with experience.
Table of Contents
- Master of Library and Information Science Key Highlights
- What is a Master of Library and Information Science?
- Why Study Master of Library and Information Science?
- Who should pursue a Master of Library and Information Science?
- Master of Library and Information Science Eligibility Criteria
- Master of Library and Information Science Entrance Exams 2025
- Master of Library and Information Science Colleges in India
- Master of Library and Information Science Admission Process 2025
- Master of Library and Information Science Syllabus
- Master of Library and Information Science Jobs in India
- Master of Library and Information Science vs Master of Library Science
- Master of Library and Information Science FAQs
Master of Library and Information Science Key Highlights
Below are the key highlights of the Master of Library and Information Science course:
What is a Master of Library and Information Science?
An M.Lib.I.Sc. is a program that trains students to manage, organize and preserve physical and digital knowledge resources. It goes beyond traditional book management to include modern information systems for libraries, user behavior analysis and data architecture for libraries in the digital age.
This program equips the students to handle complex databases, digital repositories, and emerging tools like cloud-based cataloguing, AI indexing, and e-resource management, and many more. It is designed for those candidates interested in building careers where information access, structure, and preservation intersect with technology and education.
Why Study Master of Library and Information Science?
A Master of Library and Information Science mixes modern information management with practical skills in library systems and digital archiving. It is basically about organizing knowledge, preserving data and enabling easy access to information. The course opens a career in academic libraries, research centers, and many more. Some of the reasons why study M.Lib.I.Sc courses are as follows:
- Specializing in the management of e-libraries, digital repositories and metadata frameworks used in the modern knowledge environment.
- Open the doors to roles like legal, medical, media and corporate libraries with specialized classification requirements.
- Play a role in safeguarding rare manuscripts, historical archives, and native/local knowledge systems through digital preservation.
- The qualified librarians are in demand globally in embassies, international schools and global knowledge centers.
- To facilitate academic or policy research by organizing scientific databases, citation indexes and scholarly repositories.
Who should pursue a Master of Library and Information Science?
The M.Lib.I.Sc program helps students with advanced knowledge in library science, digital archiving and information management. It prepares the graduate for careers in academic libraries, research institutions, corporate archives and digital information centers. The following pointers are a few best-fit candidates who should pursue a Master of Library and Information Science:
- The course is ideal for those who want to manage, and organize the huge digital or physical knowledge systems. They often enjoy working with structured data and complex classification systems.
- Perfect for book lovers who are also comfortable with technology and digital devices. The library connects the passion to read with automation trends.
- Great for individuals interested in supporting educational research through information sourcing and referencing. They help in creating and maintaining institutional knowledge databases.
- Fits those individuals who enjoy categorizing, systematizing and creating orders into large amounts of information. Strong attention to detail is important for cataloging and metadata tagging.
Master of Library and Information Science Eligibility Criteria
To pursue the M.Lib.I.Sc, the applicant needs to meet certain criteria, without which admission into this course may be difficult. Mentioned below are the eligibility criteria for a Master of Library and Information Science in India:
- Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognized university
- Preference is often given to those with a Bachelor in Library Science (B.Lib.Sc. or B.Lib.I.Sc.).
- Minimum 50% marks in the qualifying degree are generally required (some universities may ask for up to 60%).
- Usually, there is no upper age limit for applying.
- Some universities may require candidates to pass an entrance examination or interview.
- A few institutions may expect proficiency in English.
- Applicants should check specific college guidelines for any additional or updated eligibility requirements.
Master of Library and Information Science Entrance Exams 2025
To pursue Master of Library and Information Science, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree, in Library Science or a related field. The admission procedure is usually based on academic qualification or entrance examination. Some universities may also conduct interviews or document verification for final selection. The entrance examinations which is required for pursuing the M.Lib.I.Sc courses is given below:
Master of Library and Information Science Colleges in India
Some institutes in India offer rMaster of Library and Information Science with specific entrance examinations or merit-based admissions. The program focuses on library management, information organization and digital archiving. The course fee varies depending on the reputation and facilities of the institute being provided. Some of the colleges providing the M.Lib.I.Sc course are provided below:
Master of Library and Information Science Admission Process 2025
Admission to the M.Lib.I.Sc is based on the entrance exam scores. For your reference, given below is the admission procedure to pursue an Master of Library and Information Science at Lovely Professional University (LPU) includes the following steps:
Step 1: Register on the LPUADMIT portal with your original details. Log in using your email ID (as user name) and chosen password.
Step 2: Pay INR 5,000 to start your admission process. You will get a provisional registration number through email.
Step 3: Upload photo, 10th mark sheet, qualifying examination certificate, and address proof. If you apply for a scholarship, upload the previous qualification documents as well.
Step 4: Choose hostels, mess, transport, or parking if necessary. This step is optional and based on your needs.
Step 5: Verify your original documents within the given time outline. Pay the remaining admission fee as per the instructions provided by the university.
Required Documents:
- 10th Class Certificate
- 12th Class Certificate
- Graduation Certificate
- Entrance Exam Scorecard
- Migration Certificate
- Character Certificate
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Address Proof
Master of Library and Information Science Syllabus
The M.Lib.I.Sc syllabus in India is more or less the same in the colleges offering the course. The syllabus may slightly differ depending on the course curriculum followed by the institute. For reference, the syllabus followed by Pondicherry University, which provides an Master of Library and Information Science is given below:
Master of Library and Information Science Jobs in India
M.Lib.I.Sc graduates can work in libraries, information centers, academic institutions and digital resources management. The program builds skills in information retrieval and library automation. Some of the job opportunities after completing an Master of Library and Information Science courses are as follows:
Master of Library and Information Science vs Master of Library Science
M.Lib.i.Sc focuses on advanced library science, digital archiving and information management - which is ideal for those seeking for specialization. However, M.Lib.Sc covers both fundamental and modern concepts, providing a wide understanding of library systems. Master of Library and Information Science suits candidates with prior-knowledge, while M.Lib.Sc is better for beginners. Both lead to roles in libraries, archives and information services.
Click here to know about further study option Ph.D Library & Information Science
Master of Library and Information Science FAQs
What skills will a student gain from the Master of Library Science course?
Graduates gain skills in cataloging, information systems, digital resource management and analytical methods. Soft skills such as communication, data analysis, and archival workflows are also developed.
Do projects in the Master of Library Science course include real-world exposure?
Yes, students often undergo the library automation, digitization or user behavior survey during projects. These are usually executed under the supervision of a faculty member in actual libraries.
Does the Master of Library Science curriculum include technical skills?
Yes, students learn skills like digital archiving, library software, metadata standards, and basic IT tools. Some programs also cover web publication and digital content management.
What is the workload after completing the Master of Library Science course?
A balanced mixture of assignments, practical labs, projects and library internships can be expected. Managing time is the key factor, especially during digitization and cataloging practice.
Is the programming knowledge or IT essential for pursuing a M.Lib.I.Sc course?
While not mandatory, a basic understanding of the computer and IT is helpful in managing digital libraries. Courses often introduce to the topics related to HTML, database systems and library software such as Koha.