ITI Trade: Library & Information Science (LIS)

The Library & Information Science (LIS) trade under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) is a job-oriented course powered by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT). This trade is designed to produce skilled professionals capable of managing and organizing library resources and services in various institutions. The LIS trade offers opportunities in both government and private sectors and plays a vital role in education, research, and information dissemination.

The course is ideal for candidates who have an interest in information management, organizing books, digital resources, and library services. It also empowers trainees with the necessary skills to adapt to modern libraries' technological advancements, making them capable of handling both traditional and digital information systems.

Course Overview

The Library & Information Science (LIS) trade is offered across the country through a network of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). The duration of this course is one year, divided into two semesters. It focuses on equipping students with the essential skills needed to work in various types of libraries, including academic, public, government, and special libraries.

The curriculum includes:

  • Domain Area: Trade Theory & Practical, imparting knowledge and professional skills in library management and information services.
  • Core Area: Employability Skills, focusing on communication, soft skills, entrepreneurship, and life skills.

On completion of the course, candidates receive the National Trade Certificate (NTC) issued by NCVT, which is recognized both in India and internationally.

Objective of the Course

The Library & Information Science trade aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of:

  • Library organization and management.
  • Classification and cataloguing of books and digital resources.
  • Information services and reference tools.
  • Handling modern library software and digital libraries.
  • Information retrieval, storage, and dissemination techniques.
  • Providing user services and promoting reading culture.

Job Roles & Responsibilities

After completing the course, candidates can work as Library Assistants, Library Clerks, Information Assistants, and Documentation Assistants. These roles exist in a wide range of institutions, including schools, colleges, universities, research organizations, government offices, and public libraries.

Major Job Roles Include:

  1. Library Assistant/Library Clerk:
    • Assist users in finding information and using library resources.
    • Issue and return books using library management systems.
    • Organize and maintain library materials (books, journals, e-resources).
    • Perform administrative tasks such as membership registration and record keeping.
  2. Library Technical Assistant:
    • Manage the classification and cataloguing of library resources.
    • Maintain digital databases and online public access catalogues (OPAC).
    • Support the acquisition process of new books, journals, and digital media.
  3. Information Assistant:
    • Provide reference services and help users with information retrieval.
    • Assist in conducting information literacy programs.
    • Manage e-resources, digital libraries, and online subscriptions.
  4. Documentation Assistant:
    • Support documentation services in research organizations or corporations.
    • Organize and manage archives and special collections.
    • Assist in the preparation of bibliographies and abstracts.

Key Competencies Acquired

By the end of the Library & Information Science course, trainees develop competencies in the following areas:

  • Library housekeeping operations such as accessioning, classification, and cataloguing.
  • Use of classification schemes like Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC).
  • Preparation of catalogue entries according to Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules (AACR-II).
  • Managing library circulation and user services.
  • Organizing periodicals, serials, and newspapers.
  • Maintenance of records and reports.
  • Operating library software and digital resource management systems.
  • Providing reference services and guiding users.
  • Understanding intellectual property rights (IPR), plagiarism, and copyright issues.

Semester-Wise Learning Outcomes

Semester I

  1. Understand the history, purpose, and types of libraries.
  2. Apply safe working practices and follow workplace hygiene.
  3. Comply with environmental regulations and practice housekeeping.
  4. Perform basic first aid during emergencies.
  5. Classify documents using schemes like DDC.
  6. Catalogue library materials using standard rules (AACR-II).
  7. Accession, shelve, and arrange books and documents.
  8. Maintain various registers and prepare reports.
  9. Operate library equipment (barcode scanners, RFID, etc.).
  10. Develop soft skills, technical English, and workplace communication.

Semester II

  1. Manage circulation systems using manual and automated methods.
  2. Provide user services including lending, reference, and reader advisory services.
  3. Organize and manage periodicals, newspapers, and digital media.
  4. Operate library management software (Koha, SOUL, etc.).
  5. Provide bibliographic and documentation services.
  6. Understand and apply concepts of digital libraries and e-resources.
  7. Handle inter-library loans and resource sharing.
  8. Promote library services through exhibitions, reading programs, and user orientation.
  9. Ensure the care and preservation of library resources.
  10. Understand basic entrepreneurship and develop project management skills.

Generic Learning Outcomes

  1. Safe Working Practices: Follow workplace safety guidelines, use protective equipment, and maintain a safe environment.
  2. Environment & Housekeeping: Maintain cleanliness and environmental responsibility in the workplace.
  3. First-Aid & Emergencies: Respond effectively to accidents and emergencies.
  4. Communication & Soft Skills: Work effectively as part of a team and communicate clearly in technical English.
  5. Energy Conservation & Sustainability: Apply energy-saving methods and support green initiatives.
  6. Entrepreneurship & Personal Finance: Manage personal finance and understand entrepreneurship for self-employment opportunities.

Career Opportunities

After successful completion of the Library & Information Science trade, candidates can find employment in:

  • Schools and Colleges (Library Assistant, Library Clerk)
  • Universities (Library Technical Assistant)
  • Public Libraries
  • Private Organizations
  • Government Departments
  • Documentation Centers
  • Research Institutions
  • Museums and Archives
  • Corporate Libraries
  • Digital Libraries and E-Learning Centers

Self-Employment Opportunities:

Trainees can also explore self-employment by setting up:

  • Private reading rooms or libraries.
  • E-Library services.
  • Book rental and distribution businesses.
  • Library consultancy services for small institutions.

Future Scope

The Library & Information Science profession is undergoing transformation due to digitization and advancements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Modern libraries now offer digital services, e-resources, and virtual access to information. Skilled professionals who can manage both traditional and digital libraries are in high demand.

Moreover, government initiatives like Digital India, and Smart Libraries, as well as increased investment in educational infrastructure, have widened career opportunities in the field. Graduates of this trade can further pursue higher education in Library Science or Information Management.

Conclusion

The Library & Information Science ITI trade is a professional, skill-oriented program designed to meet the growing demand for qualified library personnel. The course equips candidates with the knowledge, technical skills, and soft skills required to efficiently manage libraries and information centers. Whether working in traditional or digital libraries, LIS professionals play a key role in promoting knowledge, research, and education.

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