Library, Information and Society

Paper Code: 
25BLIS 101
Credits: 
4
Contact Hours: 
60.00
Max. Marks: 
100.00
Objective: 

This course will enable the students to-

1.  Know the role of libraries in the development of various aspects of society

2.  Understand laws related to libraries and information

3. Understand librarianship as a profession

 

Course Outcomes: 

Course Outcomes (COs):

Course

 

Course outcomes

 

Learning and teaching strategies

Assessment

Strategies

Course Code

CourseTitle

 

 

 

 

25BLIS 101

 

Library, Information and Society

 

 

 

 

 

The student will be able to-

CO1: Analyse the conceptual differences between data, information, knowledge, and wisdom.

CO2: Interpret the implications of the Five Laws of Library Science, and evaluate the objectives, and functions of various types of libraries.

CO3: Explain the significance of library legislation

CO4: Assess the role of national and international library associations and organizations

CO5: Analyse the role of library professionals and evaluate the significance of library public relations and extension activities and Library and Information Science (LIS) education in India.

CO6: Contribute effectively in course-specific interaction

Approach in teaching:

Interactive Lectures, Discussion, Tutorials, Reading assignments, Demonstration, Team teaching

 

Learning activities for the students:

Self-learning assignments, Effective questions

Class test, Semester end examinations, Quiz, Solving problems in tutorials, Assignment, Presentation, Individual and group projects

 

 

 

12.00
Unit I: 
Exploring Information Dynamics

Understanding Information: Delving into the meaning, characteristics, value, and practical applications of information in various contexts.

Conceptual Frameworks: Analyzing the conceptual differences between data, information, knowledge, and wisdom, and their implications for decision-making and understanding.

Societal Evolution: Examining the definition and characteristics of information society and knowledge society, and their impact on societal structures and dynamics.

Discipline Overview: Investigating Library and Information Science as a discipline, including its foundational principles, methodologies, and contributions to information management and dissemination.

 

12.00
Unit II: 
Evolution of Libraries and Information Centers

Historical Context: Studying the historical development of various types of libraries and information centers, exploring their origins, evolution, and societal significance.

Five Laws of Library Science: Analyzing the Five Laws of Library Science and their implications for library management and user services.

Types of Libraries: Studying the objectives, features, and functions of different types of libraries and information centers, including academic, public, special, national, and digital libraries, and examining their unique roles in serving diverse user communities.

 

12.00
Unit III: 
Legal Frameworks in Library Management

Library Legislation: Exploring the rationale, purpose, and benefits of library legislation in fostering effective library management and user rights protection.

Library Legislation in India: Examining the structure and key features of library-related laws in India, including the Press and Registration of Books Act, the Delivery of Books and Newspapers (Public Libraries) Act, the Copyright Act, the Right to Information Act, and their implications for library operations and services.

Legal Considerations in LIS Studying topics such as intellectual property rights, information technology regulations, and plagiarism laws, and their impact on library practices and user interactions.

 

12.00
Unit IV: 
Professional Networks and Organizational Support

Library Associations: Exploring the roles and contributions of prominent library associations such as ILA (Indian Library Association), IASLIC (Indian Association of Special Libraries and Information Centers), IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions), ASLIB (Association for Information Management), and SLA (Special Libraries Association) in fostering collaboration, professional development, and advocacy within the library community.

International Agencies: Investigating the roles of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), UGC (University Grants Commission), and RRRLF (Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation) in promoting and advancing library development, literacy, and information access at national and global levels.

 

12.00
Unit V: 
Professionalism in Librarianship

Professionalism in Librarianship: Exploring librarianship as a profession, including its various categories and the diverse roles and responsibilities of library professionals.

Professional Ethics: Examining the ethical principles and standards guiding the conduct of library professionals in their interactions with users, colleagues, and information resources.

LIS in the Digital Era: Analyzing the evolving role of library professionals in the digital age, including their contributions to digital libraries, information literacy initiatives, and technology integration. National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and its Implications for Library and Information Science

Public Relations and Outreach: Investigating strategies for enhancing library visibility and engagement through public relations efforts and community outreach activities.

LIS Education Landscape: Reviewing the landscape of Library and Information Science (LIS) education in India, including academic programs, curriculum frameworks, and professional development opportunities for aspiring library professionals.

 

Essential Readings: 
  1. Bawden, D., & Robinson, L. (2013). Introduction to information science. Chicago: Neal Schuman.
  2. Davies, D. L. (2013). Library and information science. New Delhi: Random Exports.
  3. Isaac, K. A. (2004). Library legislation in India: A critical and comparative study of state library Acts. New Delhi: EssEss Publications.
  4. Mangla, P.B. (1981) (Ed). Library and information science education in India. New Delhi: Macmillan.
  5. Ranganathan, S. R. (1957). The five laws of library science. Bombay: Asia Publishing House.
  6. Rout, R. K. (1986). Library legislation in India: Problems and prospects. New Delhi: Reliance Publishing House.
  7. Rubin, Richard E. (2013). Foundations of library and information science. 3rd ed. New Delhi: DBS Imprints
  8. Bala, Harsha. 2010. Towards building a knowledge society. USA: Author press.
  9. Buckland, M. (2017). Information and society. MIT Press.

 

References: 
  1. Hill, M. W. (1998). The impact of information on society. London: Bowker-Saur.
  2. Leckie, G. J., Given, L. M., &Buschman, J. (2010). Critical theory for library and
    1. information science: Exploring the social from across the disciplines. Santa Barbara,
    2. Calif: Libraries Unlimited.
  3. McIntosh, J. (2011). Library and information science: Parameters and perspectives.
    1. Oakville, Ont: Apple Academic Press.
  4. Smith, M. M.(1999). Information ethics. London: Bowker-Saur.
  5. Stock, W. G., Stock, M., & Becker, P. (2013). Handbook of information science. Berlin; Boston: De Gruyter Saur.
  6. Venkaṭappaiah, V. &Madhusudhan, M. (2006). Public library legislation in the new millennium: New model public library Acts for the Union, States, and Union
  7. Territories. New Delhi: Bookwell.
  8. DuBois, P Z (2021). Reading and the Art of Librarianship: Selected essays of John B Nicholson: Routledge
  9. Duff, A. (2001). Information Society Studies. London: Routledge.

 

Academic Year: 
2025-26
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