Libraries and Information Services Management INFOST5035

  • Academic Session: 2025-26
  • School: School of Humanities
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

This course explores the key professional challenges facing library services in the modern era, and how these are addressed through development of theory and professional practice. The curriculum will explore issues such as equity of access to information, intellectual freedom, ethical values in library practice, legal aspects of professional practice, and the socio-cultural role and value of libraries in society, including the importance of sustainability. The course will also consider issues of professionalism and reflective practice in the library and information profession, and specific management issues faced in the various sectors of librarianship.

Timetable

10x2hr lecture/seminar per week, over 10 weeks.

Requirements of Entry

Standard entry to Masters at College level

Excluded Courses

N/A

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

Essay (50%) - 2500 words

Report (50%) - 2500 words

Course Aims

This course aims to:

 

■ Present the unique societal needs and challenges supported by libraries and other information organisations, and the role of the librarian and information professional in meetings these.

■ Introduce the key management challenges faced by a range of library and information organisations serving society.

■ Emphasise and cultivate professional ethical values in library and information services.

■ Explore the importance of reflective practice and continuing professional development in the library and information profession

■ Underpin the rest of the MSc Library and Information Studies programme by giving students a comprehensive insight into professional principles and concepts, and by providing them with a sound foundation from which to begin their professional practice.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Explain the differing social and professional challenges facing library and information services and how these can be managed.

■ Critically evaluate the role of the library profession within society.

■ Critically analyse the role of theory and practice in the management of library and information services.

■ Critique and apply reflective practice techniques in good professional development.

■ Appreciate the legal and ethical parameters in which library and information professionals practice.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.