IGNOU Library Course (BLIS/MLIS) 2026: Course Details, Fees, and How to Apply
If you want a job in a library, this course can help you. It is also useful for work in information centres, archives, and online library services.
The IGNOU Library Course has two main programmes:
- Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS)
- Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)
Both courses are available in ODL (Open and Distance Learning) mode. So, you can study from home. You can also continue your job or other work side by side. In this blog, you will get a simple guide for IGNOU Library Course (BLIS/MLIS) 2026.
You will learn about the course details, eligibility, fees, and how to apply step by step.
What is the IGNOU Library Course?
The IGNOU Library Course helps students learn library work in a simple way. It teaches how a library runs, how books and records are arranged, how information is managed, and how digital resources are handled. It also shows how to help readers and students in school, college, public, and office libraries.
IGNOU distance education started the BLIS course in 1989. Later, it also started MLIS to prepare students for better roles in the library field. These courses match the new needs of libraries, especially because many libraries now use computers and online systems.
Quick Overview: BLIS vs MLIS in IGNOU (2026)
1) BLIS (Bachelor Programme)
- Best for: Students who want an entry-level professional qualification in Library & Information Science.
- Suitable if: You have completed graduation (BA/BCom/BSc/any bachelor’s) and want to enter the library field.
2) MLIS (Master Programme)
- Best for: Students who already have BLIS (or an equivalent qualification) and want higher-level skills and better roles.
- Suitable if: You want to move into advanced library management, digital information services, research, archives, and specialised information roles.
IGNOU BLIS 2026: Course Details (ODL)
Programme name
BLIS: Bachelor of Library and Information Science (ODL)
Who should do it?
This programme is for graduates who want to learn library work as a profession. It helps you get ready for jobs in libraries, documentation centres, and information centres.
IGNOU also highlights that the programme has been updated to match the changing library environment, especially due to ICT and digital developments.
Eligibility (official)
You can apply if you meet any one of these conditions:
- Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/OBC/PH) OR
- Bachelor’s degree with a one-year Diploma in Library Science OR
- Bachelor’s degree with two years of working experience in a Library & Information Centre.
Medium of instruction
English & Hindi
Duration
- Minimum: 12 months
- Maximum: 24 months
Fees (2026 reference)
The official programme page lists the fee for national students as:
- ₹9,000 (full programme)
Also note: Exam fees are not included and are decided by the university.
Course structure
On the official BLIS page, IGNOU lists the course structure with course codes and credits (for example, BLI-221 is shown with 4 credits). You can expect a structured set of subjects that build your base from fundamentals to practical understanding.
IGNOU MLIS 2026: Course Details (ODL)
Programme name
MLIS: Master of Library and Information Science (ODL)
Who should do it?
The MLIS programme focuses on advanced learning. IGNOU explains that the programme puts emphasis on information handling and access in different forms, not only traditional library work.
Eligibility (official)
IGNOU states that the programme is available to candidates who have a BLIS Degree or its equivalent from a recognised university or similar institution.
(IGNOU also mentions that weightage is given to candidates with work experience in libraries or information centres.)
Medium of instruction
English (
Duration
- Minimum: 12 months
- Maximum: 24 months
Fees (2026 reference)
The official programme page lists the fee for national students as:
- ₹12,000 (full programme)
Also note: Exam fees are not included and are decided by the university.
Course structure (example)
The MLIS page lists multiple courses with codes (like MLI-101, MLI-102 and others) with credits and “Year 1” mapping. (
Admissions 2026: When Will IGNOU Start Registration?
IGNOU generally runs admissions in cycles (commonly January and July). On the official IGNOU Samarth admission portal, it clearly shows that admission for the July 2025 cycle is closed and that registration for the January 2026 session will start soon.
So, for your IGNOU Library Course plan in 2026:
- Keep checking the IGNOU admission portal for the opening date and last date.
- Apply early once it opens, so you get enough time for document upload and fee payment.
How to Apply for IGNOU Library Course (BLIS/MLIS) 2026
Step-by-step process (simple)
- Go to the official IGNOU ODL admission portal (Samarth).
- Create a new registration (first-time users) or sign in (existing users).
- Select your programme:
- BLIS (for Bachelor level) or
- MLIS (for Master level)
- Fill the online form carefully (personal details, academic details, address).
- Upload required documents (as asked on the portal).
- Pay the programme fee online.
- Submit the form and save your confirmation / reference details.
Documents You Should Keep Ready (Practical Checklist)
While the portal may update its exact list each cycle, students usually need these items ready to avoid delays:
- Recent passport-size photo (scanned)
- Signature (scanned)
- 10th certificate (for basic identity proof)
- Graduation marksheets/degree (for BLIS eligibility)
- BLIS marksheets/degree (for MLIS eligibility)
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) if applicable
- Experience certificate (only if you are applying based on work experience route, where applicable)
Tip: Keep files clear, readable, and within the portal size limits.
Fee Summary for IGNOU Library Course 2026
Here is the official fee information shown on the programme pages:
- BLIS fee: ₹9,000 (full programme)
- MLIS fee: ₹12,000 (full programme)
Also, IGNOU clearly mentions on both pages:
- Exam fee is not included in the programme fee and will be as decided by the university.
Duration and Study Flexibility
One of the biggest benefits of the IGNOU Library Course is flexibility.
- You get a minimum 12 months duration for both BLIS and MLIS.
- You also get up to 24 months maximum duration to complete the programme.
This helps if you are working, preparing for competitive exams, or managing family responsibilities.
Learning Support and Study Material
IGNOU provides structured learning support through its system (study centres, regional centres, and online resources). The Common Prospectus also mentions that soft copies of self-learning material can be accessed through platforms like eGyanKosh.
Career Scope After IGNOU BLIS / IGNOU MLIS
Library and information science is not limited to “book issuing” today. With digitisation and data growth, trained professionals are needed in many sectors.
After BLIS
You can apply for roles like:
- School librarian / college library assistant
- Library assistant
- Support roles in documentation centres and information units
IGNOU’s BLIS page also lists job prospects and mentions different library-related professional opportunities.
After MLIS
You can move to higher roles, such as:
- Librarian roles (academic/public/special libraries)
- Library systems / digital library roles
- Archival and preservation roles
- Information management and knowledge roles
These types of prospects are also reflected on the MLIS programme page’s job/future prospects section.