Royal School of Library and Information Science

The Royal School of Library and Information Science (RSLIS) was a higher education institution in Denmark specializing in library and information science. It was the primary institution in Denmark for educating librarians and information professionals.

RSLIS was originally established as the Danmarks Biblioteksskole (The Danish Library School) and had a long history of providing education and research in the field of library and information science. The institution played a crucial role in shaping the library profession in Denmark and contributed to the development of information management practices.

The school offered bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in library and information science, focusing on areas such as knowledge organization, digital libraries, information retrieval, and cultural communication. The curriculum combined theoretical knowledge with practical training, ensuring that graduates were well-prepared for careers in libraries, archives, and other information-related fields.

In 2013, the Royal School of Library and Information Science merged with the University of Copenhagen, becoming part of the university’s Faculty of Humanities. After the merger, the programs and research activities continued under the University of Copenhagen, integrating library and information science with broader academic disciplines.

The institution was known for its strong research environment, with faculty members engaged in studies on digital information systems, user behavior, and the role of libraries in society. It also maintained international collaborations with other universities and research institutions in the field of information science.

With its long-standing tradition and contribution to library and information science, the Royal School of Library and Information Science played a significant role in Denmark’s educational and cultural landscape. Today, its legacy continues through the programs and research conducted at the University of Copenhagen.

The Royal School of Library and Information Science (RSLIS) in Denmark has a long history as a leading institution in the field of library and information science. It was originally established as the Danish Library School in 1956, with the goal of educating librarians and information professionals to meet the growing demands of libraries and information services in Denmark. Over the years, the institution expanded its academic programs and research activities, becoming a key center for library and information science education in the country.

In 1998, the school was renamed the Royal School of Library and Information Science, reflecting its national significance and its role in advancing research and education in the field. The institution offered bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs, focusing on areas such as information management, digital libraries, knowledge organization, and user experience.

A major milestone in the history of RSLIS occurred in 2013 when it merged with the University of Copenhagen. This integration allowed the school to benefit from the university’s broader academic environment while continuing to specialize in library and information science. Following the merger, RSLIS became part of the Department of Communication at the University of Copenhagen, further strengthening its research and educational offerings.

Throughout its history, RSLIS has played a crucial role in shaping the development of library and information science in Denmark. It has contributed to the professionalization of librarianship and has been involved in numerous research projects related to digital information systems, knowledge organization, and user behavior. The institution has also maintained strong international collaborations, working with universities and research centers worldwide to advance the field.

Today, as part of the University of Copenhagen, the legacy of RSLIS continues through its contributions to research, education, and the development of information professionals. The school remains an important institution for those interested in the study of information science, digital technologies, and library management.

The Royal School of Library and Information Science (RSLIS) in Denmark was an independent institution until 2013, when it merged with the University of Copenhagen. As a result, its programs and degrees are now accredited under the University of Copenhagen’s accreditation framework.

The University of Copenhagen is accredited by the Danish Accreditation Institution, which operates under the Ministry of Higher Education and Science in Denmark. This accreditation ensures that the university meets national and international standards for higher education. The Danish Accreditation Institution follows the European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ESG), which are established by the European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ENQA).

As part of the University of Copenhagen, the programs offered by the former Royal School of Library and Information Science are subject to the same quality assurance processes as other programs at the university. This includes regular evaluations, curriculum reviews, and adherence to academic standards set by Danish and European higher education authorities.

The University of Copenhagen is also a member of several international organizations that promote academic excellence and quality assurance, such as the European University Association (EUA) and the International Association of Universities (IAU). These memberships further support the university’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards.

In Denmark, higher education institutions must undergo periodic accreditation to ensure that their programs remain relevant and of high quality. The accreditation process includes assessments of faculty qualifications, research output, student satisfaction, and graduate employability. Since the Royal School of Library and Information Science is now part of the University of Copenhagen, its programs benefit from the university’s established reputation and accreditation status.

Overall, the accreditation of the Royal School of Library and Information Science is maintained through its integration with the University of Copenhagen, which is recognized as a leading institution in Denmark and internationally.

The School offers an undergraduate Bachelor of Library and Information Science, a so-called Librarian IVA qualification, a 2-year Master of Library and Information Science (M.L.I.Sc. degree) along with a PhD degree programme. Also offered are a range of specialised courses including a one-year, post-professional Master of Library and Information Science degree, diploma courses as well as continuing education options including short courses and theme-days.

In 2008, the contents of the 3-year Bachelor of Library and Information Science course have been revised with the focus now mainly being placed at knowledge design and knowledge media. Students are offered course units and seminar options covering, among other things, media theories, forms of knowledge, information architecture, information seeking and retrieval, communication, knowledge management and user behaviour.

The two-year Master of Library and Information Science degree programme was also revised in 2008 thus providing students with new possibilities of taking options covering constituting as well as free modules. The constituting modules are rooted in the School’s six research programmes with the free modules to a greater extent being offered in relation to specific research fields and having the nature of scientific workshop. Students are also offered the possibility of toning their individual programmes in the context of the Masters programme.

The Royal School of Library and Information Science (RSLIS) in Denmark is a prestigious institution specializing in library and information science education. It is now part of the University of Copenhagen, which is one of the top universities in Europe. Students choose RSLIS for its strong academic reputation, innovative research, and high-quality education in information science.

One of the key advantages of studying at RSLIS is its focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of library and information science. The university offers a dynamic learning environment where students engage with modern technologies, digital information management, and knowledge organization. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for careers in libraries, archives, and information management sectors.

Another special feature of RSLIS is its strong research foundation. The institution is known for its contributions to information science research, including digital libraries, data management, and knowledge organization. Students have the opportunity to work with experienced researchers and participate in projects that address real-world challenges in the field.

Additionally, RSLIS provides an international perspective on library and information science. Denmark is known for its strong library culture and advanced digital infrastructure, making it an ideal place to study this field. The university collaborates with international institutions, allowing students to gain global insights and expand their professional networks.

The university also emphasizes innovation and the use of modern technology in information management. Students learn about digital transformation, artificial intelligence in libraries, and the role of information professionals in the digital age. This prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in both public and private sectors.

Overall, RSLIS is an excellent choice for students interested in library and information science. With its strong academic foundation, research opportunities, and international outlook, it provides a high-quality education that prepares students for successful careers in the field.