Information Studies Unit
About the Unit
The Information Studies Unit (ISU) was established in 2017 under the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. The main purpose of establishing ISU is to conduct the BALIS degree program, which was started in 2019. The first Unit coordinator was the Mrs. H.P.S.D Gunasekara, Deputy Librarian.
The Unit is located in the Main Library of the OUSL. Role of the Unit Coordinator and the staff is to run the programme by performing following functions under the guidance and instructions given by the Faculty of HSS.
Welcome Messages
Welcome Message of the Dean
It is with great pleasure that I introduce the Degree Programme in Library and Information Studies offered by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences...
Welcome Message of the Course Coordinator
It is with immense pleasure I, as the Coordinator of the BALIS Programme, welcome all the new students who are in ...
Welcome Message of the Dean
It is with great pleasure that I introduce the Degree Programme in Library and Information Studies offered by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in close collaboration with our University Library. In an era defined by information abundance, digital transformation, and knowledge-driven development, the role of library and information professionals has never been more vital—both nationally and globally.
Sri Lanka, like many societies, is navigating rapid technological change, expanding digital infrastructures, and evolving educational needs. This programme is designed to prepare competent, ethical, and innovative professionals who can manage information resources, support research and lifelong learning, promote digital literacy, and contribute meaningfully to national development. At the global level, the discipline continues to evolve through advancements in data management, knowledge organization, information ethics, and emerging technologies. Our curriculum is carefully structured to reflect these contemporary trends while maintaining strong theoretical foundations.
As a leading institution in open and distance education, we are committed to providing comprehensive learner support. Students will benefit from blended learning approaches, access to well-equipped library facilities, digital repositories, academic counselling, continuous assessment guidance, and dedicated academic staff who are responsive to learner needs. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive academic environment that ensures smooth programme delivery and continuous learner improvement.
I warmly invite prospective students to join this dynamic field of study and become part of a professional community that shapes the future of knowledge, information access, and intellectual growth in Sri Lanka and beyond.
Athulasiri Samarakoon (Ph.D)
Dean, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
The Open University of Sri Lanka
Welcome Message of the Course Coordinator
It is with immense pleasure I, as the Coordinator of the BALIS Programme, welcome all the new students who are in 4th batch to the Open University of Sri Lanka.
The aim of the BALIS degree programme is to prepare students to the national and global market. There are four semesters in this programme and students have to complete 64 credits during the period of two years. There are 15 courses that develop Knowledge, attitudes, professional skills as programme contents several practical components in different courses. Hence that I am sure that those who have joined with the program will gain qualifications you need to start your career, develop your professional skill and maximize your potential. I wish you the best for your success in distance learning with OUSL.
Our Services
Prepare Study Materials
Prepare comprehensive study materials for students to enhance learning.
Day-Schools
Schedule and conduct Day-Schools to support academic development.
Academic Counseling
Counsel students on academic matters to guide their progress.
Student Workshops
Organize workshops to improve students' skills and competencies.
Staff Workshops
Organize workshops to enhance teaching staff skills and professional growth.
Evaluation Guidelines
Prepare guidelines for evaluation activities for smooth programme management.
CATs & Final Exams
Schedule and conduct Continuous Assessments and Final Examinations each semester.
Support Teaching Staff
Assist teaching staff in student evaluation activities.
Maintain Programme Quality
Ensure the programme meets faculty guidelines and maintains high standards.
Student Support
Support students to follow the programme successfully with no dropouts.
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences offers the BA Hons LIS Degree Programme for the three year LIS Diploma holders.
Level 3 of Library and Information Studies course has commenced for the AL pass students, as part of the Library Science Degree Programme
Study Programmes
- Duration : 04 Years
- Programme Fee : : Approximately Rs. 250,000
- Issuing of Applications : February 20, 2026
- Closing Date for Applications : April 25, 2026
Staff
Visiting Academics
Publications
Videos
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