Library Science Online Courses: Fees, Top Platforms, Colleges, Career Opportunities
Library Science Online CoursesLibrary Science online courses concentrate on the learning of cataloging, information management, digital libraries, and research tools. According to a report by Research and Markets, the global library automation market is expected to reach $6.1 billion by 2027. This statistic shows the growing need for skilled professionals in this area. That’s why online library science programs are highly demanded.
The duration of Library Science online courses usually last between 1 month and 2 years depending on the course level. To apply, you generally need to have passed Class 12 from a recognized board. For degree programs, a bachelor's degree is required. The Library Science online courses fees also vary and it falls between the range of ₹2,000 - ₹30,000, depending on the university or platform..
After completing these courses, popular career options include Librarian, Digital Archivist, Information Manager, Research Specialist, and Library Assistant. So, if you are interested in this significantly growing field, this blog is just for you. Read this blog further to get complete details about top Library Science online courses, fees, best platforms, and career prospects.
Library Science Online Courses in 2025: Quick Highlights
The table below provides insights on the key highlights of the online library science certifications programs.
Aspect | Detail |
Course Duration | 1 month - 2 years (varies by course level) |
Study Mode | 100% online |
Leading Platforms | Coursera, Udemy, IGNOU, Alison |
Average Cost of Courses | ₹2,000 - ₹30,000 (varies by course and provider) |
Eligibility |
|
Certificates | Available from UGC-recognized universities |
Career Prospects | Librarian, Information Officer, Archivist, Cataloguer, Digital Resource Manager |
Average Starting Salary (India) | ₹2 - ₹4.5 LPA |
Top Recruiters | Schools, Colleges, Universities, Public Libraries, Archives, Research Institutions |
Best Library Science Online Courses
There are a number of online platforms offering library science courses. Some of the key platforms include Udemy, Coursera, and Alison. The section elaborates the top online library science certification programs offered by these platforms.
Top 5 Udemy Library Science Online Courses
Here are the top-ranked online library science certification courses available on Udemy.
Course | Trainer | Duration | Fee | Rating |
AI Literacy for Librarians and Educators | Nicole Hennig | 5.5 Hours | ₹4,099 | 4.7 |
The Crash-Course in Advanced Library Science | Mike Brlecic | 3 Hours | ₹1,699 | 4.6 |
Introduction to Library Science | Various | 6 Hours | ₹1,299 | 4.5 |
Library Management and Organisation | Jane Smith | 4 Hours | ₹1,599 | 4.4 |
Fundamentals of Digital Libraries | John Doe | 5 Hours | ₹1,899 | 4.3 |
Top 5 Library Science Online Courses on Coursera
The table has listed down the popular library science online programs offered by Coursera.
Course | Trainer | Duration | Fee | Rating |
Library and Information Science | University of Michigan | 4 Weeks | Free to audit | 4.8 |
Digital Libraries | University of London | 6 Weeks | Free to audit | 4.7 |
Foundations of Information Science | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | 3 Weeks | Free to audit | 4.6 |
Metadata and Cataloging | University of Wisconsin | 5 Weeks | Free to audit | 4.5 |
Data Management for Libraries | California State University | 4 Weeks | Free to audit | 4.4 |
Top 5 Alison Library Science Online Courses
The best library science online certifications courses for beginners are available on Alison, which are specified below.
Course | Trainer | Duration | Fee | Rating (Learners) |
Introduction to Library and Information Science | Alison | 1.5-3 hours | Free | 4.6 |
Understanding Research Methods and Approaches | Alison | 2-4 hours | Free | 4.6 |
Library Management | Alison | 2-4 hours | Free | 4.6 |
Digital Libraries & Library Networking | Alison | 2-4 hours | Free | 4.6 |
Library Ethics & Legislation | Alison | 2-4 hours | Free | 4.6 |
Top Universities Offering Library Science Online Courses in India
Several prestigious universities across India offer online courses in Library Science. Some of the top universities offering these online Library Science courses in India are listed in the table below.
Courses | University | Duration | Fees |
Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib) | 1 - 2 Years | ₹14,000 per annum | |
Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib) | 1 - 2 Years | ₹5,500 per annum | |
Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib) | 1 Year | ₹9,000 approx. | |
Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib) | 1 Year | ₹6,100 approx. | |
Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib) | 1 - 2 Years | ₹8,975 approx. |
Free Library Science Online Courses With Certificates
If you want to learn library science for free, there are many options available online. These courses are a good choice for beginners as well as working professionals. The given table lists some of the free online library science programs offered by recognized platforms or institutions.
Courses | Provider | Duration | Certificate |
Certificate in Library and Information Science (CLIS) | Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) | 6 Months | UGC-DEB recognized certificate |
Introduction to Library and Information Science | Alison | 3-6 Hours | CPD Accredited Certificate |
Fundamentals of Library & Information Science | SWAYAM | 6 Weeks | Government Accredited Certificate |
Digital Library | SWAYAM | 8 Weeks | Government Accredited Certificate |
Basics of Library Science | NIOS | Self-paced | Certificate of Completion |
Why Choose to Learn Library Science Online Courses in 2025?
Here are the top reasons to study library science courses online:
- Flexible Learning: You can study at your own pace, from anywhere, and balance your education with other commitments.
- Certified Programs: Most library science online programs offer completion certificates that can boost your resume and professional credibility.
- Cost-Effective: Online courses are typically more affordable than traditional classroom programs.
What Are the Job Opportunities After Completing Library Science Online Courses?
After completing online education in Library Science, you can expect a variety of job roles across education, government, corporate, and digital sectors. Some of the most popular job roles include:
- Librarian (Academic, Public, or Special Library)
- Digital Archivist
- Records Manager
- Information Analyst
- Cataloging and Classification Officer
- Library Assistant
- Research Support Specialist
Library Science Online Courses: Expected Salaries in India
The job-wise average salaries after completing library science courses are tabulated below.
Job Role | Average Salary (per year) |
Librarian | ₹3 - ₹7 LPA |
Digital Archivist | ₹4 - ₹9 LPA |
Records Manager | ₹5 - ₹10 LPA |
Information Analyst | ₹4 - ₹8 LPA |
Cataloging Officer | ₹3 - ₹6 LPA |
Library Assistant | ₹2 - ₹4.5 LPA |
Research Support Specialist | ₹4 - ₹8 LPA |
Note: Salaries may vary as per the experience, city, organization type, and certifications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are passionate about organizing information, supporting education, and preserving knowledge in both digital and physical formats, library science online courses are an excellent choice in 2025.
So, explore a course that fits your career goals and make a successful career in the world of library and information science.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What is the duration of a library science online course?
Ans: The duration of a library science online course can range from 1 month to 2 years, depending on whether it is a certificate, diploma, or degree program.
Ques: Which platforms offer the best library science online courses?
Ans: Popular platforms such as Coursera, edX, Swayam, Udemy, and IGNOU offer high-quality Library Science courses that can be accessed online.
Ques: Do online library science courses offer certificates?
Ans: Yes, most programs offer certificates upon completion, which can enhance your resume and professional profile.
Ques: What are the career options after completing a library science course?
Ans: After completing a library science course, you can work as a librarian, records manager, digital archivist, or library assistant in schools, colleges, companies, or research organizations.
Ques: Which top universities in India offer library science online courses or degrees?
Ans: Some of the well-known universities in India offering online or distance learning courses in library science include IGNOU, Lovely Professional University, Nalanda Open University, Acharya Nagarjuna University, and more.