What is happening to library and information studies in Spanish universities?

Abstract

This article aims to provide an overview of the current state of library and information science (LIS) education in Spanish universities. Data have been gathered from official statistical sources (Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports and National Institute of Statistics) and universities’ annual reports, in order to complement data provided by members of the Spanish Network of Information and Documentation University Centers and Departments  (RUID). Among other issues, a general decrease in the demand of LIS undergraduate studies and a slight increase in postgraduate studies are observed. Finally, the article presents several reflections on the challenges that these studies are currently facing, and suggests strategies that may be followed to strengthen not only LIS education but also the profession as a whole in this country