About the Department
Library and Information Science: A Gateway to Knowledge in the Digital Age
Library and Information Science (LIS) plays a crucial role in today’s knowledge-driven world by
ensuring that information is organized, accessible, and preserved for future generations. In an
era where digital transformation is reshaping how we access knowledge, LIS professionals are
at the forefront of managing this ever-expanding landscape of information. The discipline has
evolved significantly, both globally and in India, to meet these changing demands. India’s
journey in LIS education began in 1911 with the introduction of formal training in Baroda. Since
then, the field has rapidly expanded, with universities across the country offering advanced
degrees to equip professionals with the skills needed to manage both traditional and digital
information resources. The importance of LIS continues to rise as societies become increasingly
reliant on organized access to information.
Leaders in the LIS Field
The Department of Library and Information Science at the University of Mysore, established on
24th June 1965 with 20 students for the Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, has been a
trailblazer in LIS education. Pioneers like Prof. P.K. Patil and Prof. K.S. Deshpande laid the
foundation for the department, which has since expanded to offer a Master’s program
(introduced in 1971) and a PhD program (introduced in 1976). The metamorphosis from the
Department of Library Science to the Department of Library and Information Science in 1976
marked a pivotal shift towards an information-centered curriculum. In 1991, the department
introduced a groundbreaking two-year integrated Master's program, combining both
undergraduate and graduate studies, a model that has been adopted by other institutions
across Karnataka. Today, the department is led by a distinguished faculty members.
The department’s alumni and faculty members have gone on to occupy prestigious positions
both in India and internationally, holding roles such as Director General of the National Library
of India, Vice-Chancellors, professors at various universities, and heads of national-level
libraries. Prof. V.G. Talawar, is the first Vice-Chancellor from the LIS field in India, he served as
Vice-Chancellor at University of Mysore, Mysuru and REVA University, Bengaluru. The notable
alumni include Dr. P.Y. Rajendra Kumar, who served as the Director General of the National
Library of India. Additionally, Dr. K. Nageswara Rao currently serves as Director of the Defence
Scientific Information & Documentation Centre (DESIDOC) under DRDO in Delhi, and Prof.
Devika P. Madalli is the Director of INFLIBNET at UGC-IUC Gandhinagar. Sri N.V.
Sathyanarayana, a successful entrepreneur, established Informatics India Ltd. These
distinguished alumni reflect the department’s far-reaching influence and the high calibre ofprofessionals it produces.
Shaping the Future of LIS Through Innovation
With a commitment to innovation, the department has made substantial contributions to LIS
education in India. Through cutting-edge curriculum reforms, research initiatives, and high-
impact seminars, the department has cemented its position as one of the premier LIS
institutions in the country. Our approach is simple yet powerful: Think global, act local. We aim
to address global challenges in library and information science while meeting the specific needs
of Indian society. Additionally, the department launched Vidyanidhi, India’s first Electronic
Thesis and Dissertation (ETD) database. Though the initiative is no longer active, it was a
pioneering effort that demonstrated the department's leadership in embracing digital platforms
to make academic research more globally accessible.
Adapting to the Needs of a Changing World
The department is constantly evolving to meet the dynamic demands of the profession. Major
curriculum revisions over the years have ensured that we remain relevant. In 1975-76, the shift
to a semester system refocused our programs to be more information-centered. In 1991, we
integrated the Master's program with a strong emphasis on the role of Information Technology
(IT) in transforming information access and delivery. The 1996-97 revision of the syllabi further
prioritized skill development, ensuring that our graduates are proficient in IT-based activities.
Pioneering Technological Integration
The department has restructured its Master’s program multiple times to emphasize the
development of practical IT skills, positioning our students to excel in managing information
systems in the digital age. Over the years, we have introduced specialized programs such as
the Post-Graduate Diploma in Library Automation (1994), the MPhil program (1995), and the
Master of Information Management (2001). Although these programs have been merged into
the core curriculum, they reflect the department’s commitment to offering a comprehensive
learning experience.
Preparing Global Leaders for the Digital Age
At the core of our mission is preparing students to become thought leaders in the digital age,
equipped to manage libraries, information, and knowledge systems with a global outlook. The
curriculum focuses on hands-on experience and problem-solving, emphasizing practical
applications over rote learning. The department's efforts to stay connected with the profession
are exemplified by our Friday Talk sessions, organized by the Mysore University Library and
Information Science Students Association (MULISSA). Additionally, outreach activities, in
collaboration with MyLISA and MILAN, and visits to libraries around Mysuru, ensure that our
students gain real-world exposure. The success of our alumni, many of whom hold prestigious
positions in national organizations, is a testament to the department's dedication to academic
excellence.
Vision and Mission
Our vision is to be a leader in LIS education and research across Asia while maintaining and
sustaining our leadership in India. Our mission is to meet the LIS human resource
requirements of an emerging information society through cutting-edge educational programs
and competent faculty. The department’s ultimate aim is excellence in LIS education and
research.
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Location
The department is located at Manasagangotri postgraduate campus of the university. Click on the image below for a detailed map of the campus and the city.
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