Publisher's Synopsis
Encyclopaedia of Library Programs and Services: Fundamentals and Applications for effective teaching and learning, an information service center like a library is essential. Library and information sci- ence education (LISE) like other branches of knowledge is significant for societal development. The transformation from the industrial revolution to information revolution by most parts of the world, is a testimony that information is an essential asset for human, economic, political, social and technological developments. In view of this, institutions charged with the responsibility of producing skilled manpower for library and information service also become very imperative. Libraries cannot function efficiently and effectively without appropriate skilled personnel who are dedicated to their jobs. The beginning of the 21st century till date has been surrounded with proliferation of library schools in many central, state and private universities. It is evident that library and information science education is gradually spreading to most of the institutions of higher learning. The dynamism of the society has manifested to a lot of developmental chang- es and cutting across all sectors. The ways of doing things previously can no longer meet the modern taste, thus, change is a necessity. Specifically, the changing demands of the library and information profession dictate that preparation for this field cannot be regarded complete as professional must take the changes in the world into account and update themselves in order to perform creditably on their jobs. There is a significant relationship between the libraries and library schools, whatever influence or implication on one affects the other. Responsibilities of LIS departments and teachers are increasing to produce best LIS professionals to lead the 21st century librarianship. The major responsibility of the LIS department is to groom LIS students in the philosophy, knowledge, and professional values of librarianship, as practiced in libraries and in other contexts, and as guided by the vision of the 21st century librarianship. LIS educa- tion and training facilities are undergoing rapid changes. During the past 10 years, the number of library schools/departments has grown substantially, both for regular and distance education programs. Reorientation has been common in most LIS departments, and review and revision in curriculum has also been noticed. The quality of LIS educators has also improved and research output is experiencing new dimensions. Increase in the use and access to information and com- munication technologies (ICT) for LIS education is now more evident. This work discusses the challenges LIS education faces in the 21st century and how to make LIS education more relevant and effective.