Library and Information Science Management

Modern Strategies for Managing Libraries and Information Services in the Digital Era

1. Introduction

In an increasingly digital and information-driven world, the role of libraries and information professionals is evolving rapidly. Today's library managers must not only maintain traditional services but also lead innovation, integrate digital tools, and respond to user demands for instant, diverse, and credible information access. This Library and Information Science Management Course equips participants with essential skills and knowledge to effectively lead, manage, and transform library and information services in any setting be it academic, public, special or corporate.

 

2. Course Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will:

• Understand key principles and functions of library and information science management
• Build and manage collections (print and digital) aligned with user needs
• Apply cataloguing, classification, and metadata standards
• Implement modern technologies for information access and service delivery
• Develop leadership and strategic planning capabilities for libraries
• Promote user engagement, knowledge sharing, and innovation in information services

 

3. Target Group

This course is designed for:

• Librarians and senior library staff
• Information professionals and knowledge managers
• Archivists and records officers
• Documentation centre coordinators
• Library science graduates seeking management skills
• Managers of digital repositories, learning resource centres, and institutional archives

 

4. Course Duration

• Total Duration: 4 Weeks
• Modules: 16 Modules (4 per week)
• Total Contact Hours: 64 hours (4 hours per module)
• Delivery Mode: In-person, virtual, or hybrid

 

5. Course Content

Module 1: Foundations of Library and Information Science

• Evolution of LIS
• Core functions and principles
• The role of information in knowledge societies

Module 2: Library Management and Leadership

• Organizational structures and policies
• Library governance and leadership styles
• Decision-making and team management

Module 3: Collection Development and Management

• Resource selection and acquisition
• Collection assessment and weeding
• Print, digital, and hybrid collections

Module 4: Cataloguing and Classification Techniques

• Cataloguing rules and tools (AACR2, RDA)
• Classification systems (DDC, LCC, UDC)
• MARC format and metadata standards

Module 5: Reference and Information Services

• Reference interview techniques
• User instruction and information literacy
• Ready reference and research services

Module 6: Digital Libraries and Institutional Repositories

• Concepts and architecture of digital libraries
• Open access repositories and content management systems
• Standards and metadata for digital content

Module 7: Library Automation and Integrated Library Systems (ILS)

• Overview of library automation tools (Koha, Evergreen)
• ILS modules: cataloguing, circulation, OPAC, serials
• Planning and implementation strategies

Module 8: Information Organization and Retrieval Systems

• Indexing, abstracting, and thesauri
• Search engines and information retrieval strategies
• Subject access and controlled vocabularies

Module 9: User Services and Community Engagement

• User needs assessment
• Outreach programs and library marketing
• Inclusive access for diverse populations

Module 10: Human Resource Management in Libraries

• Job roles and staff structures
• Training, motivation, and performance management
• Conflict resolution and team leadership

Module 11: Budgeting and Financial Management

• Budget planning and resource allocation
• Fundraising and grant writing for libraries
• Financial accountability and audits

Module 12: Preservation and Conservation of Library Materials

• Physical preservation techniques
• Digital preservation standards (OAIS model, LOCKSS, CLOCKSS)
• Disaster preparedness and recovery

Module 13: Legal and Ethical Issues in Information Management

• Copyright and intellectual property
• Privacy and confidentiality
• Access to information and censorship

Module 14: Research and Evidence-Based Practice in LIS

• Research methods in library science
• Conducting user and service evaluations
• Data collection, analysis, and reporting

Module 15: Strategic Planning and Innovation in Libraries

• Visioning and goal setting
• Change management and innovation culture
• Monitoring, evaluation, and impact assessment

Module 16: Capstone Project – Library Service Improvement Plan

• Participants design and present a project to improve library operations, services, or systems
• Emphasis on real-world application, innovation, and sustainability
• Peer and facilitator review for feedback and validation

 

6. Learning Outcomes

Participants will be able to:

• Lead and manage library and information services in diverse environments
• Design user-centred services, collections, and digital tools
• Apply international standards for cataloguing, classification, and digital content management
• Engage communities through effective outreach and programming
• Lead strategic initiatives that enhance access, inclusion, and innovation
• Ensure ethical and legal compliance in information services

 

7. Certification

• Certificate of Competence in Library and Information Science Management
• Issued upon:
• Minimum 85% attendance
• Completion of all modules and activities
• Submission and presentation of the Capstone Project

This certificate is suitable for professional recognition and promotion in academic, public, special, and corporate library settings.