A Closer Look at the Possible Opportunities and Future Directions for the Library and Information Science Discipline in the Context of National Education Policy

Abstract

The National Education Policy 2020 has brought revolutionary change in the Indian education system, emphasising interdisciplinary, holistic, and technology-driven learning. As centers of information, libraries and LIS professionals are anticipated to be essential to accomplishing NEP 2020's goals. The policy for the discipline of Library and Information Science (LIS) offers opportunities and future paths that are critically examined in this study. In addition to the above, to address issues with infrastructure, the digital divide, and professional competencies, it emphasises the changing role of libraries in promoting digital access, encouraging reading culture, supporting research, and guaranteeing inclusive learning.
The study highlights the changing role of the library and information science (LIS) discipline and the professionals in support of teaching, learning, research, and knowledge dissemination in a fast-changing academic environment, placing LIS within the larger context of modern educational reforms. It critically engages with key policy documents, interpretative frameworks, and relevant literature to understand the underlying intentions, priorities, and implications of educational reforms for LIS. The study places LIS amid larger educational reforms and uses a qualitative approach to policy analysis.