In today’s information-driven world, library and information science professionals play an important role in managing and preserving knowledge across various industries. From academic institutions to corporate organisations, professionals in this field are responsible for organising, storing, and ensuring access to valuable resources.
Whether you are passionate about curating historical records, assisting legal or medical professionals, or optimising information architecture, a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree can open doors to numerous high-paying and fulfilling career paths.
Master of Library and Information Science Job Opportunities
Graduates of MLIS programs enjoy robust career opportunities in various sectors. MLIS degree salary depends on the types of jobs you take up. Here are some detailed descriptions of prominent roles:
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Librarian
Manages library operations, assists visitors in finding resources, maintains book collections, and organises reading programs. They also develop policies for book lending and cataloging.
Monthly Salary:₹20,000 to ₹40,000
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Library Technician
Assists librarians in organising materials, managing databases, and helping patrons with library services. Their responsibilities also include handling book repairs and updating library systems.
Annual Salary: ₹2.2 lakh
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Archivist
Works with historical documents, photographs, and records to ensure their long-term preservation. Archivists help researchers access valuable information and often work in museums or government agencies.
Monthly Salary: ₹24,000 to ₹48,000
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Digital Archivist
Focuses on the preservation and management of digital records. They ensure that electronic files remain accessible and secure over time.
Annual Salary: ₹7.2 lakh to ₹12.3 lakh
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Records Manager
Develops strategies for storing and retrieving organisational records, ensuring compliance with data security laws. They work in corporate offices, healthcare institutions, and government agencies.
Annual Salary: ₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh
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Information Architect
Designs and organises digital information systems, making websites and applications user-friendly. Their expertise helps improve navigation and accessibility.
Annual Salary: ₹17.8 lakh
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Knowledge Manager
Oversees knowledge-sharing within an organisation, ensuring that employees have access to relevant data and research. They create structured knowledge bases to enhance efficiency.
Annual Salary: ₹6 lakh to ₹15.5 lakh
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Preservation Specialist
Focuses on restoring and maintaining historical and rare library materials, including books, manuscripts, and artwork. Their work helps protect fragile documents from deterioration.
Annual Salary: ₹4 lakh
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Law Librarian
Supports legal professionals by managing legal research resources, court cases, and legal publications. They work in law firms, government agencies, and law schools.
Annual Salary: ₹7.9 lakh to ₹13.6 lakh
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Medical Librarian
Helps healthcare professionals and researchers access medical literature, journals, and databases. They play a very important role in ensuring accurate and up-to-date medical information is available.
Annual Salary: ₹7.9 lakh to ₹13.6 lakh
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School Librarian
Works in educational institutions, helping students and teachers access books and learning materials. They also support reading programs and curriculum development.
Monthly Salary: ₹14,000 to ₹43,000
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Corporate Librarian
Manages business-related information and research within companies, supporting decision-making and strategic planning. They work in private firms and multinational organisations.
Annual Salary: ₹8.5 lakh to ₹14.7 lakh
MLIS Distance Education
The MLIS course duration generally spans two years, encompassing subjects like Information Organization, Digital Libraries, Cataloguing, Library Management, and Research Methodology. Many universities offer MLIS through distance education, allowing students to earn their degrees without compromising professional commitments. Such programs maintain rigorous academic standards, making distance education a popular option among working professionals.
What is Library Science?
Understanding library science helps students appreciate its role as a dynamic and interdisciplinary field, combining information management, technology, and traditional library practices. Library science jobs involve organising, preserving, and managing information resources, while also emphasizing digital literacy and information retrieval in an increasingly digital world.
Skills Necessary for Library and Information Science Jobs
With advancements in digital technology, careers in library science have evolved beyond traditional roles, offering diverse opportunities in digital archiving, knowledge management, and research support. To cope with the competition in the job market, here are some skills that you should develop and thrive in.
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Information Management
The ability to organise, store, and retrieve information efficiently is critical for success. MLIS professionals manage vast databases, ensuring accurate information retrieval.
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Research Skills
Expertise in research methodologies enables librarians to assist users effectively, perform systematic literature reviews, and contribute to scholarly activities.
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Digital Literacy
Proficiency with digital tools and technologies, such as database management systems and digital archiving software, is essential for modern librarians.
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Communication Skills
Clear, concise communication is vital for librarians to interact with diverse audiences, conduct training sessions, and collaborate within organisational teams.
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Analytical Skills
MLIS professionals must analyse user needs, assess information quality, and apply critical thinking to develop efficient information systems and resources.
Mastering these skills ensures that Masters in Library Science graduates thrive in their roles, significantly impacting organisational success and personal career advancement.
Conclusion
A career in library and information science offers diverse opportunities across multiple industries. Whether working in academic institutions, corporate settings, healthcare, or legal sectors, professionals with an MLIS degree learn to manage and preserve information.
With the increasing demand for digital expertise, pursuing a degree through online degree programs paves the way for aspiring individuals to gain the necessary skills and credentials to excel in this evolving field.