About Central Department of Library & Information Science

College Overview

The Central Department of Library & Information Science (CDLIS) at Tribhuvan University stands as the premier academic hub for library and information professionals in Nepal. Established in 1995, the department has been instrumental in transforming traditional library management into modern information science.

Since its inception, CDLIS has focused on creating a workforce capable of managing information in an increasingly digital world. The department was founded to address the growing need for trained librarians across Nepal's academic, government, and non-governmental sectors. Today, it serves as the central authority for graduate and research studies in this specialized field.

Our Mission & Vision

The mission of the department is to produce high-level human resources equipped with the skills to organize, manage, and disseminate information effectively. We envision a society where information is accessible to all, facilitated by professionals who understand the nuances of both physical archives and digital databases.

Institutional Highlight: CDLIS is the first and only central department under Tribhuvan University dedicated specifically to the advancement of Library and Information Science education in Nepal.

University Affiliations & Recognition

Tribhuvan University (TU)

Affiliation Type: Central Department

CDLIS operates directly under the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Tribhuvan University, the oldest and largest university in Nepal.

Fully Accredited UGC Recognized

Global Standards

Recognition: International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) guidelines

The curriculum is designed in alignment with international standards to ensure graduates are competitive globally.

Programs Offered by University

Degree Level: Post-Graduate (Master's)

Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)

Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university with a minimum second division or equivalent GPA.

Career Opportunities: Librarian, Information Manager, Document Controller, Archive Manager, Knowledge Management Specialist, Researcher.

Key Coursework: Classification & Cataloging, Digital Libraries, Research Methodology, Information Sources & Services.

Degree Level: Doctorate

Duration: 3-5 Years

Eligibility: Master's degree in Library and Information Science with high academic standing and a research proposal approved by the TU Faculty Board.

Career Opportunities: University Professors, Policy Makers, Lead Researchers, Senior Information Consultants.

Fee Structure

Program University Duration Admission Fee Semester/Annual Fee Estimated Total
MLIS (Masters) Tribhuvan University 2 Years Rs. 15,000 Rs. 35,000 (Per Semester) Rs. 150,000 - 180,000
PhD (Research) Tribhuvan University 3+ Years Variable As per TU Guidelines Contact Department
Note: Fees are subject to change as per the Tribhuvan University central guidelines. Official fees for foreign students may vary.

Facilities & Campus Infrastructure

Departmental Library

A specialized collection of LIS literature, journals, and reference books essential for research and coursework.

Computer Laboratory

Equipped with high-speed internet and latest library management software like Koha for practical training.

TU Central Library Access

Direct proximity and integration with the largest library in Nepal (TUCL) for hands-on internships.

Seminar Halls

Modern halls equipped with multimedia projectors for presentations, guest lectures, and workshops.

Wi-Fi Campus

Seamless connectivity for students to access online databases, e-journals, and international digital repositories.

Research Facilities

Dedicated spaces for PhD scholars and MLIS students to conduct independent and collaborative research.

Faculty & Teaching Methodology

The faculty at CDLIS consists of distinguished academicians and experienced professionals who have contributed significantly to the library movement in Nepal. Many faculty members are trained abroad, bringing international perspectives to the classroom.

Pedagogical Approach

  • Practical demonstration of cataloging and classification systems (DDC, UDC, MARC21).
  • Field visits to diverse libraries including the National Library, Kaiser Library, and UN Libraries.
  • Seminar-based learning where students present findings on contemporary LIS issues.
  • Hands-on training in digital library software and open-source management tools.

Student Life & Extracurricular Activities

Beyond academics, CDLIS encourages students to engage in community and professional networking. The department fosters a sense of responsibility toward national heritage preservation.

LIS Student Forum

A platform where students organize intellectual debates, book discussions, and social events. It helps in developing leadership and organizational skills.

Workshops & Literacy Programs

Students participate in information literacy campaigns for rural communities, helping bridge the digital divide in Nepal.

Career Support & Placement Assistance

The demand for Central Department of Library & Information Science graduates is high across multiple sectors. The department maintains strong ties with the library community to assist in job placements.

Placement Sectors
Academic Institutions
National & State Archives
Corporate Resource Centers
International NGOs
Information Technology Firms
Media & Publishing Houses

Admission Process

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Monitor the TU Faculty of Humanities website for admission notices (usually once a year).
  2. Submit the online application form with required academic transcripts.
  3. Appear for the entrance examination conducted by the Dean's Office.
  4. Selection is based on a merit list (Entrance score + Academic history).
  5. Complete physical verification of documents at the Kirtipur department.
Required Documents
  • Citizenship Certificate Copy
  • Character Certificates (SLC/SEE to Bachelor)
  • Transcripts and Marksheets
  • Passport size photographs
  • Migration Certificate (if from other universities)

Scholarships & Financial Assistance

As a public institution, CDLIS offers affordable education. However, additional financial support is available:

  • TU Merit Scholarship Top 10% Students
  • UGC Research Grants For PhD Scholars
  • Social Category Scholarships Reservation Policy

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, being a department of the public Tribhuvan University, the fees are highly subsidized compared to private institutions.

The entrance exam typically includes objective and subjective questions on general knowledge, information science, and English proficiency.

Yes, graduates from any faculty (Science, Arts, Management, Education) are eligible to apply for the MLIS program at Central Department of Library & Information Science.

Standard programs are on weekdays, but class timings are often scheduled in the morning to accommodate students who work.

With the rise of digital archiving and the establishment of new universities and local government offices, the demand for qualified LIS professionals is growing rapidly.

The department occasionally organizes short-term training on Koha, digital library management, and record keeping.

It is located within the Tribhuvan University Central Campus in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, near the TU Central Library.

The number of seats is limited (usually 30-40 per intake) to maintain a high faculty-to-student ratio.

Yes, field-work and internships are mandatory components of the fourth semester for MLIS students.

Yes, CDLIS provides facilities and supervision for PhD candidates in various niches of information science.

You will learn about Integrated Library Systems (ILS), Database Management, Web Technologies, and DSpace for digital repositories.

Students can apply for the Tribhuvan University central hostels located within the Kirtipur campus.

The department is a central part of Tribhuvan University, Nepal's top-ranked public university.

Yes, international students can apply through the TU International Relations Office.

Its close proximity to the TU Central Library provides an unmatched environment for practical learning and reference.

Send an Official Inquiry

Direct your academic queries to Central Department of Library & Information Science's admissions desk. They'll get back to you shortly.

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Email info@cdlis.tu.edu.np
Phone +977-1-4331316