Library Science in Nigeria: Career Opportunities & Best Universities to Study It

Library Science in Nigeria: Course Overview, Career Opportunities & Best Universities to Study It

Library Science—often called Library and Information Science (LIS)—is a professional field that focuses on the management, organization, preservation, and dissemination of information in libraries, archives, media centers, digital repositories, and knowledge-based organizations. In today’s world where information is the “new oil,” Library Science is becoming increasingly important because every sector relies on data management, knowledge storage, and information retrieval.

This article explains everything you need to know about studying Library Science in Nigeria, including admission requirements, career prospects, job opportunities, and the best universities that offer the course.

What Is Library Science?

Library Science is the study that teaches students how to:

• Organize and classify information using cataloguing systems
• Manage digital and physical libraries
• Build knowledge repositories
• Preserve documents and historical records
• Manage educational and research resources
• Support academic institutions with information needs
• Use technology to improve access to information

Today, modern Library Science also includes:

• Database management
• Digital librarianship
• Information technology
• Research and data analytics
• Archival digitization
• Knowledge management for corporate organizations

It is one of the most versatile information-driven courses in the humanities/art field.

Why Study Library Science in Nigeria?

1. Growing demand for information professionals

Government agencies, universities, private firms, and NGOs require trained professionals who can manage information resources.

2. Digital transformation

More organizations are digitizing their records. This creates opportunities for people skilled in:

• Digital archiving
• Database systems
• Online cataloguing
• ICT-driven information management

3. Career opportunities beyond libraries

Graduates can work in:

• Research firms
• Museums
• Media houses
• Archives
• Tech firms
• Government agencies
• Universities and schools

4. High relevance to Nigeria’s educational system

Every tertiary institution must maintain a functional library, which means more jobs for library professionals.

Is Library Science a Good Course in Nigeria?

Yes. It is a highly relevant course with multiple career paths. Nigeria has thousands of public and private institutions that require library and information services.

In addition, graduates can advance academically into areas like:

• Information Science
• Digital Humanities
• Documentation Science
• Archival Studies
• Knowledge Management
• Data Science (with additional training)

Admission Requirements for Library Science in Nigerian Universities

UTME Requirements

Most universities require the following WAEC/NECO/GCE subjects:

• English Language (Compulsory)
• Mathematics
• Any two Arts or Social Science subjects

JAMB Subject Combination

Most universities accept:

1. Use of English
2. Any three subjects from: Government, Literature, CRS/IRS, Economics, History, or any Social Science/Art subject

Minimum UTME cut-off marks vary by institution (typically 160–200).

Direct Entry Requirements

• NCE, OND, or Diploma in Library Science or related fields
• At least upper credit for polytechnic diplomas

What Do Students Learn in Library Science? (Typical Courses)

Students cover both traditional library management and modern information science. Courses include:

• Cataloguing and Classification
• Library Management
• Information Retrieval Systems
• Research Methods
• Digital Librarianship
• Bibliography & Documentation
• Publishing and Media Resources
• Archival Studies
• Information Technology for Libraries
• Records Management

Many universities now include ICT courses because the field is evolving quickly.

Career Opportunities for Library Science Graduates

Graduates can work in a wide range of roles such as:

Traditional Roles

• Librarian
• Cataloguer
• Library Technologist
• Archivist
• Reference Services Officer
• Records Officer

Digital & ICT-Based Roles

• Digital Archivist
• Data Curator
• Knowledge Manager
• E-library Administrator
• Records and Documentation Analyst
• Metadata Specialist

Corporate and Government Roles

• Information Manager
• Research Assistant
• Documentation Officer
• Policy and Research Analyst
• Information Consultant

Self-Employment Opportunities

• Private research consultancy
• Digital archiving services
• Academic editing and resource management

Best Universities to Study Library Science in Nigeria

Below are the most reputable universities offering Library Science, based on accreditation status, academic quality, available facilities, and graduate employability.

1. University of Ibadan (UI) – Oyo State

Department: Library, Archival and Information Studies
URL: https://www.ui.edu.ng

UI is the top-ranked institution for LIS in Nigeria. The department is known for strong research output, modern ICT facilities, professional librarians, and advanced postgraduate programs.

2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria) – Kaduna State

Department: Library and Information Science
URL: https://www.abu.edu.ng

ABU is one of the earliest institutions to establish a full-fledged LIS department. It has extensive resources, an academic-rich environment, and strong regional influence.

3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

Department: Library and Information Science
URL: https://www.unn.edu.ng

UNN is known for its robust curriculum that blends traditional librarianship with modern information science, as well as its strong academic research environment.

4. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

Department: Library and Information Science
URL: https://www.unilorin.edu.ng

UNILORIN’s LIS department is known for high discipline, research innovation, and strong ICT integration in teaching and practice.

5. Bayero University Kano (BUK)

Department: Library and Information Sciences
URL: https://www.buk.edu.ng

BUK has modern library facilities and one of the best digital library setups in Nigeria, making it excellent for LIS students.

6. Delta State University (DELSU)

Department: Library and Information Science
URL: https://www.delsu.edu.ng

DELSU offers a strong practical-oriented curriculum for students wishing to work in school, academic, or public libraries.

7. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)

Department: Library and Information Science
URL: https://www.unimaid.edu.ng

The school blends library science with modern digital archiving, producing graduates who are ICT-ready.

8. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)

Department: Library and Information Science
URL: https://www.unizik.edu.ng

UNIZIK’s LIS department is known for advanced cataloguing training, e-library management, and strong postgraduate programs.

9. Federal Polytechnic Nekede (ND/HND Programme)

Department: Library and Information Science
URL: https://www.fpno.edu.ng

For students who prefer the polytechnic route, Nekede offers one of the best ND/HND programs in Library Science, fully accredited by NBTE.

10. Kaduna Polytechnic

Department: Library and Information Science
URL: https://www.kadunapoly.edu.ng

KadPoly’s programme has produced some of the best library technologists and information officers in Nigeria.

Future Prospects for Library Science Graduates in Nigeria

With Nigeria’s push toward digital record management, LIS graduates will continue to be needed in:

• Digital government archives
• National libraries and research centers
• Banks and private companies
• Educational institutions
• Legal, medical, and research organizations

The field is shifting toward technology, making graduates with ICT skills highly employable.

Library Science is an essential and evolving discipline that supports education, research, information management, and digital archiving. With Nigeria’s growing need for structured information systems, the demand for trained Library and Information Science professionals continues to rise.

Students who choose this course will find opportunities in academic institutions, government agencies, private firms, digital archives, and consultancy services.

If you are passionate about information, research, organization, and knowledge management, Library Science is an excellent choice with long-term career growth and global relevance.