ENTRY 

Entry is possible at various levels, depending on the qualifications acquired. This can be as: 

ATTENDANT 

With matriculation and a certificate in library science. 

CLERK 

Requiring matriculation with a diploma in library science. 

SEMI-PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANT 

With a Bachelor's degree in library science. 

PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANT

A Master's in library science. 

ASSISTANT LIBRARIAN 

Requires an M. Phil in library science. 

DEPUTY LIBRARIAN 

Must be a PhD holder in the subject.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Good communication skills; curiosity; interest in a variety of topics; a methodical approach; accuracy; organizing ability; retentive memory; staying power; resourcefulness; interest in electronic information systems; capacity to switch instantly from one subject to the next; ability to cope with frequent interruptions when doing jobs requiring concentration; ability to anticipate user's needs.

TRAINING

Professional training is essential for entry into the field of librarianship. This is due partly to the technical nature of the work; and also because special qualifications are a prerequisite for promotion to higher grades.

Training Institutions

Various universities, colleges, polytechnics, as well as distance learning institutions around the country offer certificate, diploma and graduate and post-graduate degree courses in library and information science.

Eligibility

Eligibility varies with courses and institutions. In general, guidelines are:

CERTIFICATE DIPLOMA IN LIBRARY SCIENCE

HSC or equivalent school leaving examination.

BACHELOR'S DEGREE IN LIBRARY SCIENCE

Graduation in any discipline.

MASTER'S IN LIBRARY SCIENCE

Graduation with B.Lib.Sc.

M.PHIL/PH.D. IN LIBRARY SCIENCE

M.Lib.Sc. degree.

Selection Procedure

Selection of candidates is mainly merit based. Some institutions hold admission tests in order to shortlist students.

Duration Of Training

Course duration varies with the programme and the institution that is conducting it. Short-term certificate courses are between three and eight months. Others can take from one to four years to complete.

Academic Programme

Undergraduate studies in library and information science include both theoretical papers and practical training in subjects that include literature; library science and management; classification/cataloguing systems; bibliography; reference services; documentation; information
processing; library and information systems management; research methodology; computer applications; information storage and retrieval; preservation and conservation of manuscriptology; and information systems and services. 

Specializations at Master's level include data processing; abstracting; indexing; incorporation of automation and equipment; accessions; planning and management of information centers and systems; archives management; advanced techniques; professional practice; comparative studies in librarianship, administration and management; referral and reader services; library planning-including architecture, furniture fittings and equipment; literature survey; special library services; Asian bibliography; audio visual library methods.