Library and Information Science (LIS) Glossary: A–Z

Library and Information Science (LIS) is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the organization, management, preservation, and dissemination of information. Whether you are a library professional, a student, or simply interested in the world of libraries, understanding common LIS terminology is essential. This A–Z glossary begins with the letters A through F and provides concise descriptions of important library science terms.

A

Abstract

A brief summary of a document, article, thesis, or report that highlights its main ideas and findings, helping readers decide whether to read the full work.

Academic Library

A library established within a college or university to support teaching, learning, and research activities.

Accession Number

A unique identification number assigned to every item added to a library's collection for inventory and tracking purposes.

Accession Register

A permanent record that documents all materials acquired by a library, including books, journals, and multimedia resources.

Acquisitions

The process of selecting, ordering, purchasing, receiving, and processing new library materials.

Archival Material

Historical records, manuscripts, photographs, maps, and documents preserved because of their long-term research or historical value.

Authority File

A controlled list of approved names, subjects, or titles used to ensure consistency in cataloging.

Author Entry

A catalog entry arranged under the author's name to help users locate works written by a specific individual.

Automated Library System

Computer software that manages circulation, cataloging, acquisitions, serials, and online public access catalogs.

B

Back Issue

A previously published issue of a journal, magazine, or newspaper kept for reference or research.

Barcoding

The process of assigning barcode labels to library materials for efficient circulation and inventory control.

Bibliographic Control

The systematic organization of bibliographic information to make resources easy to identify and retrieve.

Bibliographic Database

An electronic database containing records of books, articles, conference papers, reports, and other publications.

Bibliography

A list of books, articles, or other sources related to a specific topic, author, or research project.

Bibliometrics

The statistical analysis of books, articles, citations, and other publications used to evaluate research performance.

Binding

The process of repairing or assembling books by attaching pages together with a protective cover.

Book Classification

The arrangement of books into subject categories using standardized classification systems.

Book Drop

A secure location where patrons can return borrowed library materials outside regular operating hours.

Book Number

A code added to the call number to distinguish books within the same subject classification.

C

Call Number

A unique code assigned to each library item that indicates its subject and shelf location.

Card Catalog

A traditional catalog consisting of index cards that list bibliographic information about library materials.

Catalog

A systematic record of all materials owned by a library, allowing users to search by title, author, subject, or keyword.

Cataloging

The process of creating detailed bibliographic records describing library resources according to established standards.

Cataloger

A librarian responsible for preparing bibliographic records and assigning classification numbers and subject headings.

Circulation

The department responsible for lending, returning, renewing, and reserving library materials.

Citation

A reference that identifies the source of information used in research or academic writing.

Classification

The process of organizing library materials into subject groups using recognized classification systems.

Closed Access

A library system in which users request materials from staff instead of directly accessing the shelves.

Collection Development

The planned process of selecting, evaluating, and maintaining library resources to meet users' needs.

Community Library

A library that primarily serves the educational, cultural, and informational needs of a local community.

Copyright

Legal protection granted to creators for their original literary, artistic, and intellectual works.

Current Awareness Service (CAS)

A service that informs library users about newly published books, journals, or research in their areas of interest.

D

Database

An organized collection of electronic information that can be searched and retrieved efficiently.

Data Curation

The management, preservation, and organization of digital data throughout its lifecycle.

Data Repository

A digital platform used to store, preserve, and provide access to research data.

Decimal Classification

A numerical system for arranging library materials according to subject categories.

Descriptive Cataloging

The preparation of bibliographic descriptions that include title, author, edition, publication details, and physical characteristics.

Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)

One of the world's most widely used library classification systems, organizing knowledge into ten main classes.

Digital Archive

A collection of digital documents, photographs, audio recordings, videos, and other electronic resources preserved for long-term access.

Digital Library

A library that provides online access to electronic books, journals, databases, and multimedia resources.

Digital Preservation

The ongoing process of ensuring that digital information remains accessible and usable over time.

Document Delivery Service

A service through which libraries provide copies of books, articles, or other materials to users who cannot access them directly.

Donated Collection

Books and other materials received as gifts from individuals, institutions, or organizations.

E

E-book

A digital version of a printed book that can be read on computers, tablets, smartphones, or dedicated e-readers.

Electronic Journal (E-Journal)

A scholarly journal published in digital format and accessible through the internet or library databases.

Electronic Resource

Any information resource available in digital form, including e-books, online journals, databases, and multimedia.

Encyclopedia

A reference work containing concise information about a wide range of subjects arranged alphabetically or systematically.

End-user

The person who directly uses library resources or information services.

Entry

A catalog record representing a book, journal, report, or other information resource.

Exchange Program

A cooperative arrangement in which libraries exchange publications or other materials to strengthen their collections.

Exclusive Collection

Special library materials available only to authorized users or within specific reading rooms.

Expert System

An artificial intelligence application that assists users by providing knowledge-based recommendations or decision support.

Extension Service

Library services provided outside the main library building, often through outreach programs, mobile libraries, or online services.

F

Faceted Classification

A classification method that organizes information using multiple characteristics or facets instead of a single hierarchy.

Finding Aid

A guide that helps users locate archival materials and special collections.

Fine

A monetary penalty charged for returning borrowed library materials after the due date.

Folio

A large-sized book or manuscript, or a page number in rare book collections.

Free Access

A library arrangement that allows users to browse shelves and select materials independently.

Full-text Database

A database that provides complete access to books, articles, reports, or journals rather than only bibliographic records.

Fund Collection

The organized acquisition of financial resources to support library development and services.

Functional Catalog

A catalog designed to help users identify, locate, and select library resources efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

A collection of common questions and answers prepared to assist library users with services, policies, and procedures.

Future of Libraries

A concept referring to the evolving role of libraries through digital technologies, artificial intelligence, open access, data management, lifelong learning, and community engagement.

G

Gazetteer

A geographical reference source that provides information about places, including their names, locations, and descriptions.

General Reference Collection

A section of the library containing frequently consulted materials such as dictionaries, encyclopedias, handbooks, atlases, and directories that are usually not available for loan.

Government Documents

Official publications issued by government agencies, including laws, reports, statistics, policy documents, and census publications.

Gray Literature

Research materials that are not published through traditional commercial publishers, such as technical reports, conference papers, dissertations, working papers, and institutional publications.

Gift Collection

Books, journals, or other library materials donated by individuals, organizations, or institutions to enrich the library's collection.

Global Information Network

A worldwide system that enables libraries and information centers to share knowledge and digital resources through the internet and cooperative partnerships.

Google Scholar

A freely accessible search engine that indexes scholarly literature, including journal articles, books, theses, conference papers, and patents.

Graphic Materials

Library resources presented in visual form, including photographs, posters, maps, charts, drawings, and illustrations.

Group Study Room

A designated library space where students and researchers can collaborate on academic work without disturbing other users.

Guide to the Library

A publication or digital resource that introduces users to library collections, services, facilities, rules, and available technologies.

H

Handbook

A reference source that provides concise information, procedures, formulas, or practical guidance on a specific subject.

Hard Copy

A printed version of a document or publication, as opposed to its electronic or digital format.

Holdings

The complete collection of books, journals, digital resources, and other materials owned by a library.

Home Loan Service

A library service allowing registered members to borrow materials for use outside the library for a specified loan period.

Humanities Collection

A library collection specializing in literature, philosophy, history, languages, religion, and the arts.

Hyperlink

A clickable connection within a digital document that directs users to another webpage, document, or information resource.

Hypertext

Digital text containing embedded links that allow readers to navigate easily between related information.

Hybrid Library

A library that integrates both traditional printed collections and electronic resources to serve users more effectively.

Holdings Record

A catalog record showing the library's ownership details for books, journals, serials, and electronic resources.

Historical Collection

A specialized collection preserving rare, valuable, or historically significant materials for research and cultural heritage.

I

Index

An alphabetical or systematic list of subjects, authors, keywords, or titles that helps users locate information quickly.

Indexing

The process of analyzing documents and assigning keywords or subject terms to improve information retrieval.

Information

Organized data that has meaning and can be used for learning, research, or decision-making.

Information Center

An organization or department responsible for collecting, organizing, storing, and providing access to information resources.

Information Literacy

The ability to identify information needs, locate reliable sources, evaluate information critically, and use it ethically.

Information Retrieval

The process of searching for and obtaining relevant information from databases, catalogs, or digital repositories.

Information Science

The academic discipline that studies the collection, organization, storage, retrieval, dissemination, and use of information.

Institutional Repository

A digital archive maintained by a university or organization to preserve and provide access to its scholarly publications and research outputs.

Integrated Library System (ILS)

Software that manages cataloging, acquisitions, circulation, serials control, and online public access catalogs within a single system.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

A cooperative service through which libraries borrow materials from other libraries to satisfy users' requests.

Intellectual Property

Legal rights protecting original creations such as books, articles, software, databases, and multimedia resources.

Internet Archive

A digital repository preserving websites, books, audio recordings, videos, and other cultural and historical materials.

J

Journal

A periodical publication containing scholarly articles, research papers, reviews, and academic discussions.

Journal Database

An online collection of electronic journals that allows users to search, access, and download scholarly articles.

Journal Citation

A standardized reference used to identify and acknowledge a journal article in academic writing.

Journal Index

A database or publication that lists journal articles by subject, author, or keyword for easy retrieval.

Journal Subscription

An arrangement through which a library receives regular issues of a journal in print or electronic format.

JPEG

A widely used digital image format commonly employed in library digitization projects due to its efficient compression.

Job Description

A document outlining the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations associated with a library position.

Junior Library

A library or designated section specifically developed to meet the educational and recreational needs of children and young readers.

K

Keyword

A significant word or phrase representing the main topic of a document and used in searching databases and catalogs.

Keyword Searching

A search technique that retrieves information by matching user-entered words with indexed terms in library databases.

Knowledge

Information that has been organized, understood, and applied for learning or decision-making.

Knowledge Base

A structured collection of information designed to support research, reference services, and decision-making.

Knowledge Management

The systematic process of creating, organizing, sharing, and preserving knowledge within an organization.

Knowledge Organization

The discipline concerned with classifying, indexing, cataloging, and arranging information resources for efficient retrieval.

Knowledge Repository

A centralized digital storage system that preserves organizational knowledge, documents, reports, and research outputs.

Koha

An open-source Integrated Library System widely used by libraries for cataloging, circulation, acquisitions, serial management, and OPAC services.

Kiosk

A self-service electronic station that allows library users to search catalogs, borrow materials, return books, or access digital resources.

Key Title

The unique official title assigned to a serial publication for identification and cataloging purposes.

L

Label

A printed tag attached to library materials displaying the call number, barcode, or identification details.

Language Code

A standardized abbreviation representing the language of a publication in bibliographic records.

Leaflet

A small printed publication providing brief information about library services, events, or instructions.

Lending Library

A library that permits users to borrow books and other materials for use outside the library.

Library

An institution that collects, organizes, preserves, and provides access to information resources in print, digital, and multimedia formats.

Library Automation

The application of computer technology to manage library operations such as cataloging, circulation, acquisitions, and serial control.

Library Catalog

A searchable record of all materials available in a library, arranged by author, title, subject, or keyword.

Library Classification

The systematic arrangement of library materials according to subject using recognized classification schemes.

Library Collection

The complete set of books, journals, digital resources, audiovisual materials, and special collections maintained by a library.

Library Consortium

A cooperative partnership among libraries formed to share resources, technology, expertise, and subscription costs.

Library Management

The administration of library operations, including planning, staffing, budgeting, collection development, and user services.

Library Network

A group of interconnected libraries that cooperate to share collections, catalogs, and services.

Library Science

The academic discipline focused on the management, organization, preservation, and dissemination of information resources and library services.

Library Services

The range of facilities and assistance offered by libraries, including reference services, circulation, information literacy instruction, digital access, and research support.

Library User

Any individual who utilizes a library's collections, facilities, or information services for education, research, or personal development.

Library Website

An online portal through which users can access catalogs, databases, digital collections, library news, events, and online services.

Library Without Walls

A concept describing library services delivered remotely through digital technologies, allowing users to access information regardless of location.

Literature Review

A systematic examination and summary of existing research on a particular topic, often conducted before beginning a research project.

Loan Period

The length of time a library item may be borrowed before it must be returned or renewed.

Local Collection

A specialized collection containing materials related to the history, culture, geography, or heritage of a specific community or region.

M

Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC)

A standardized digital format used to create, store, and exchange bibliographic records between library systems.

Manuscript

A handwritten or typed document, often unpublished, preserved because of its historical, literary, or research value.

Map Collection

A specialized library collection containing printed and digital maps, atlases, charts, and geographical resources.

Media Center

A library unit that provides access to audiovisual materials, multimedia resources, and digital learning technologies.

Metadata

Structured information that describes the characteristics of a resource, making it easier to identify, manage, and retrieve.

Metadata Schema

A standardized framework that defines the elements used to describe digital and physical information resources.

Microfilm

A photographic film used to preserve newspapers, books, manuscripts, and archival records in a compact format.

Microfiche

A flat sheet of photographic film containing miniature images of documents for long-term preservation and storage.

Mobile Library

A library service delivered through specially equipped vehicles or temporary facilities that bring books and information services to remote communities.

Monograph

A detailed written study or book focusing on a single subject or specialized area of knowledge.

Multimedia Resources

Information resources presented through multiple formats such as text, images, audio, animation, and video.

Museum Library

A library maintained within a museum to support exhibitions, research, education, and documentation.

My Library Account

A personalized online account that allows users to renew books, reserve materials, check due dates, and manage borrowing history.

N

Name Authority File

A controlled list of standardized personal, corporate, and geographical names used to maintain consistency in library catalogs.

National Library

The principal library of a country responsible for preserving the nation's published heritage and supporting national bibliographic services.

Networked Information

Information resources accessible through interconnected computer networks and the internet.

Newspaper Archive

A preserved collection of newspapers in print, microform, or digital format available for historical and research purposes.

Non-Book Materials

Library resources other than printed books, including DVDs, CDs, maps, photographs, models, and digital media.

Notation

The combination of letters, numbers, or symbols used in classification systems to represent subjects.

Novelist Database

A readers' advisory database that helps users discover books based on genre, author, subject, or reading interests.

Numeric Classification

A classification system that uses numerical notation to organize knowledge into subject categories.

National Bibliography

A comprehensive record of publications produced within a country.

New Arrival Shelf

A designated library area displaying recently acquired books and other materials.

O

Online Catalog

A computerized catalog that enables users to search library collections through the internet or a local network.

Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC)

A searchable online system that provides access to bibliographic records and information about library holdings.

Open Access

A publishing model that allows scholarly research to be accessed online without subscription fees or access restrictions.

Open Educational Resources (OER)

Teaching, learning, and research materials that are freely available for use, adaptation, and redistribution.

Open Shelf System

A library arrangement where users may browse shelves and select materials without staff assistance.

Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

Technology that converts scanned printed documents into searchable and editable digital text.

Organization of Knowledge

The systematic arrangement of information resources through classification, cataloging, indexing, and metadata.

Oral History

Recorded interviews that preserve the personal experiences and memories of individuals for historical research.

Outreach Services

Programs and activities designed to extend library services to schools, communities, hospitals, and underserved populations.

Overdue Notice

A reminder sent to borrowers informing them that library materials have not been returned by the due date.

P

Pamphlet

A small printed publication providing information on a particular subject, usually consisting of a few pages.

Patent Information

Technical and legal information describing inventions and intellectual property rights.

Periodical

A publication issued at regular intervals, including journals, magazines, newspapers, and newsletters.

Preservation

The activities undertaken to protect library materials from deterioration and ensure long-term access.

Primary Source

An original document or firsthand record created during the time under study, such as letters, diaries, official records, or photographs.

Print Collection

The portion of a library collection consisting of physical books, journals, newspapers, and other printed materials.

Public Library

A library established to provide free access to information, education, and recreational resources for the general public.

Publisher

An individual or organization responsible for producing and distributing books, journals, or other publications.

Publication Date

The official date on which a book, journal, or other information resource is published.

Public Domain

Creative works that are no longer protected by copyright and may be used freely without permission.

Proxy Server

A server that authenticates users and provides remote access to subscription-based electronic resources.

Professional Librarian

A qualified information professional trained in library management, cataloging, reference services, and information organization.

Q

QR Code

A two-dimensional barcode that provides quick access to library catalogs, digital collections, websites, or electronic resources.

Quality Control

The process of ensuring accuracy and consistency in cataloging, metadata creation, digitization, and library services.

Query

A search request entered into a library catalog, database, or search engine to retrieve relevant information.

Quick Reference Collection

A selection of frequently used reference materials placed in an easily accessible location for immediate consultation.

Qualitative Research

Research that explores experiences, opinions, and behaviors through interviews, observations, and textual analysis.

Quantitative Research

Research that focuses on numerical data, measurements, and statistical analysis.

Question-and-Answer Service

A reference service where librarians respond to users' information requests either in person or through digital platforms.

R

Rare Books Collection

A specialized collection of valuable, scarce, or historically significant books preserved under controlled conditions.

Reading Room

A quiet area within a library where users may consult books, manuscripts, journals, and archival materials.

Reference Book

A resource designed to provide specific factual information rather than continuous reading, such as dictionaries and encyclopedias.

Reference Collection

A section containing materials intended for use within the library and not normally available for borrowing.

Reference Librarian

A librarian who assists users in locating information, conducting research, and using library resources effectively.

Reference Service

Personalized assistance provided by librarians to answer questions and guide users to appropriate information sources.

Remote Access

The ability to use library databases, electronic journals, and digital collections from locations outside the library.

Renewal

The extension of the borrowing period for library materials before or after the original due date, according to library policy.

Repository

A physical or digital storage location used to preserve and provide access to documents, research outputs, and other information resources.

Research Data Management

The planning, organization, storage, documentation, sharing, and preservation of research data throughout its lifecycle.

Research Guide

A subject-specific guide created by librarians to recommend databases, books, journals, websites, and other resources.

Resource Sharing

Cooperation among libraries to provide access to materials through interlibrary loan, document delivery, or shared collections.

Retrospective Cataloging

The process of converting older manual catalog records into electronic bibliographic records.

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)

A technology that uses electronic tags and radio signals to identify, track, and manage library materials efficiently.

Rights Management

The administration of copyright, licensing, permissions, and access rights for information resources.

Record

A structured description of a library resource containing bibliographic and administrative information.

Retrieval System

A software system that enables users to search, locate, and access information from databases or digital collections.

S

Shelf Arrangement

The systematic placement of books and other library materials on shelves according to their classification numbers and call numbers.

Shelf Classification

The organization of library materials on shelves according to a recognized classification system such as Dewey Decimal Classification or Library of Congress Classification.

Shelf List

A record arranged in the same order as books appear on library shelves, used for inventory and collection management.

Shelf Reading

The process of checking books on shelves to ensure they are arranged correctly according to their call numbers.

Scholarly Communication

The process through which researchers create, publish, share, and evaluate academic information.

Scholarly Journal

A peer-reviewed publication containing original research articles written by experts in a particular field.

School Library

A library located within an educational institution that supports students, teachers, and curriculum-based learning.

Search Engine

A digital tool that allows users to locate information on the internet by entering keywords or queries.

Secondary Source

A resource that analyzes, interprets, or summarizes information from primary sources.

Selection Policy

A written guideline that explains how a library chooses materials for addition to its collection.

Serial

A publication issued continuously in successive parts, including journals, magazines, newspapers, and annual reports.

Serials Control

The management of continuing publications, including ordering, receiving, recording, and claiming missing issues.

Service Quality

The measurement of how effectively library services meet user expectations and information needs.

Special Collection

A unique group of materials with particular historical, cultural, artistic, or research value.

Special Library

A library established to serve a specific organization, profession, industry, or research field.

Standards

Official guidelines or rules developed to ensure consistency, quality, and compatibility in library operations.

Subject Heading

A standardized term assigned to a resource to describe its main topic and improve information retrieval.

Subscription

An agreement through which a library receives regular issues of journals, databases, or other continuing resources.

Sustainable Library

A library that applies environmentally responsible practices while supporting social, educational, and community development.

T

A list of chapters, sections, or articles included in a book, journal, or publication.

Technical Services

The library department responsible for behind-the-scenes activities such as acquisitions, cataloging, classification, and processing materials.

Thesaurus

A controlled vocabulary tool that shows relationships between terms, including broader, narrower, and related concepts.

Thesis

A formal research document submitted by a student as part of an academic degree requirement.

Token

A digital authentication method used to provide secure access to electronic library resources.

Training Program

Educational activities designed to improve the skills and knowledge of library staff or users.

Transaction Log

A record of activities performed in an automated library system, such as borrowing, returning, or searching.

Transfer of Records

The movement of documents or archival materials from one location or institution to another for preservation or management.

Translation Service

A service that assists users in accessing information available in different languages.

User Training

Instruction provided by libraries to help users effectively search catalogs, databases, and digital resources.

U

Union Catalog

A combined catalog showing the collections of multiple libraries, allowing users to identify resources available across institutions.

Unique Identifier

A special code assigned to an information resource, author, or digital object for accurate identification.

Universal Decimal Classification (UDC)

A multilingual classification system used to organize knowledge resources in libraries and information centers.

Universal Availability of Publications (UAP)

An international concept promoting access to published information for users worldwide.

University Library

A library supporting teaching, learning, and research activities within a university environment.

Unpublished Work

A document, manuscript, report, or research output that has not been formally published.

User Education

Programs designed to teach library users how to locate, evaluate, and use information resources effectively.

User Interface

The design and features through which users interact with library software, catalogs, and digital platforms.

User Services

Library activities focused on helping users access information, including reference, circulation, instruction, and research support.

V

Virtual Library

A digital library service that provides access to electronic resources through online platforms.

Virtual Reference Service

An online information service where librarians assist users through chat, email, video calls, or web-based platforms.

Vocabulary Control

The process of managing standardized terms used in indexing, cataloging, and information retrieval.

Voice Search

A technology that allows users to search information resources using spoken commands.

Visual Literacy

The ability to understand, interpret, evaluate, and communicate information presented through images and visual media.

Vendor

A company or supplier that provides books, databases, journals, software, or other resources to libraries.

Verification

The process of checking the accuracy and reliability of bibliographic information.

W

Web Archive

A collection of preserved websites and online content maintained for future research and historical reference.

Web-Based Library Service

Library services delivered through internet platforms, including online catalogs, digital collections, and electronic databases.

Web Content Management System

Software used to create, organize, update, and maintain library websites and online information.

Web Resources

Electronic information sources available through the internet, including websites, databases, and digital publications.

Website

An online platform providing information about a library's services, collections, events, and resources.

White Paper

A detailed report that explains a problem, presents research findings, or proposes solutions.

Wireless Library

A library environment that provides internet access and digital services through wireless technologies.

World Wide Web (WWW)

A global system of interconnected digital documents and resources accessed through the internet.

X

XML (Extensible Markup Language)

A markup language used to store, organize, and exchange structured information between different systems.

XML Metadata

Metadata represented in XML format to enable efficient sharing and management of digital information resources.

XML Schema

A framework that defines the structure and rules for XML documents.

Xerox Copy

A photocopy or reproduction of a document created using photocopying technology.

Y

Yearbook

An annual publication containing information, statistics, photographs, and records related to an organization, institution, or community.

Young Adult Library Service

Library programs and resources designed specifically for teenagers and young adult readers.

Youth Services

Library services developed for children and young people, including reading programs, educational activities, and digital learning support.

Z

Zero-Based Budgeting

A budgeting method where every expense must be justified from the beginning of each budget cycle.

Z39.50

An international computer communication standard that allows users to search and retrieve information from multiple library catalogs.

Zip File

A compressed digital file format used to reduce storage space and simplify electronic file transfer.

Zotero

A reference management tool that helps researchers collect, organize, cite, and manage academic sources.

Zoning

The arrangement of different areas within a library building according to user needs and activities, such as reading areas, study spaces, and service desks.

Zoom Reference Service

A virtual reference method that uses video conferencing technology to provide online assistance from librarians.

Final Conclusion

Library and Information Science is a constantly evolving discipline that connects traditional library practices with modern information technologies. From cataloging and classification to digital libraries, metadata, artificial intelligence, and online information services, LIS professionals play an important role in organizing knowledge and ensuring access to reliable information.

This complete A–Z glossary provides a foundation for students, researchers, librarians, and information professionals who want to understand important terminology used in the field. As libraries continue to transform into digital knowledge centers, these concepts will remain essential for managing information in the modern world.

This completes the A–Z Library and Information Science Glossary blog series with more than 500 words and a structured format suitable for a website, educational blog, or study resource.