The Department of Library Science, as it was originally known, was created in 1983 as a response to repeated calls for more training opportunities for library and information professionals. Subsequent changes in the name of the Department and degree nomenclature (from B.A.L.S/B.Sc.L.S. to B.L.I.S.) were effected to reflect current trends. The undergraduate programme is modeled on the current NUC Minimum Academic Standards for Library and Information Science. These stipulate core and elective courses in library and information science as well as a number of cognate courses in other disciplines.
Available Facilities and Staff
The facilities of the department have expanded and developed since its inception. The department is housed in a separate block with offices and class rooms. It also uses lecture rooms in the Children’s Centre which is managed by the Department, and class rooms in the Faculty building. It has three laboratories: a professional collection/cataloguing laboratory at the Children’s Centre Library, computer laboratory in the main building and teaching laboratory at the Children’s Centre. The Department has a seminar room at the main block. It also has access to laboratory and practice facilities in the University’s Nnamdi Azikiwe Library, especially in the areas of computer and technology, bindery, and reference. Staff Strength of the Department comprises a total number of 21 full time academic staff including 5 Professors, 2 Associate Professors, 1 Senior Lecturer and 14 Junior Lecturers.