A Diploma in Library and Information Science in Kenya prepares students to organise, preserve and help people access books, documents, records and digital information. The field combines traditional library services with information technology, data organisation, research support and records management. Related diploma titles include Library and Information Management, Library and Information Science Technology and Library and Information Studies.
What does library and information science involve?
Library and information professionals support learning, research and everyday information needs. They help users find trustworthy sources, catalogue and classify resources, manage borrowing systems and preserve digital or physical collections. In modern workplaces, these skills are also useful for document control, electronic records and knowledge management.
Where can you study the diploma in Kenya?
The TVET Authority (TVETA) course directory lists Library and Information Management Level 6 at institutions including Rift Valley National Polytechnic, The Kisii National Polytechnic, The Kericho National Polytechnic, The Kaimosi Friends National Polytechnic and The Kiambu National Polytechnic. It also lists Library and Information Science Technology Level 6 at The Baringo National Polytechnic.
These qualifications have related but not necessarily identical modules. Verify that your chosen college and campus currently offer the course, identify the actual examining body and confirm the next intake before applying.
Subjects commonly covered
- Library organisation, administration and user services.
- Cataloguing, classification and subject indexing.
- Information sources, reference services and research support.
- Collection development, acquisition and stock control.
- Digital libraries, electronic information systems and databases.
- Archives, document handling and records management.
- Information literacy, communication and customer service.
- Preservation, conservation and handling of materials.
- Copyright, information ethics and data privacy.
- Information retrieval, library software and practical attachment.
Diploma entry requirements
Many Kenyan Level 6 diploma programmes use KCSE Cā or an accepted relevant Level 5 qualification as an entry pathway. The grade, certificate progression option and any additional requirements depend on the particular course and examining body. Ask the institution to confirm the current admission rules rather than relying on a general grade for all colleges.
Duration and fees
Duration depends on the modules, training calendar, examination schedule and any workplace attachment. Fees may include application and registration, tuition, examinations, practical training, computer use and attachment. Request a complete written fee schedule and confirm whether the course is full-time, part-time or offered through an approved blended-learning arrangement.
Practical skills employers value
- Using a catalogue or library management system to locate materials.
- Creating reliable item descriptions and organising digital resources.
- Maintaining accurate lending and returns records.
- Helping readers evaluate and find credible information.
- Protecting private borrower and organisation records.
- Maintaining archives, retention schedules and document registers.
- Using spreadsheets and digital tools to prepare reports.
Career opportunities
- Library assistant or library services technician.
- School, college or university library support officer.
- Documentation or information resources assistant.
- Records management and archives assistant.
- Research support or information desk assistant.
- Digital collections and library systems support worker.
- Document control assistant in a business or public institution.
- Further study in information science, records management or librarianship.
How to choose a college and apply
- Confirm the current TVETA licence of the institution and campus.
- Check the approved qualification title and Level 6 awarding body.
- Ask whether the curriculum includes library software and digital records.
- Verify practical learning facilities and industrial attachment arrangements.
- Compare full fees, admission criteria and next intake dates.
- Apply through the college’s official admissions channel and retain your confirmation.
Official course and accreditation resources
- TVETA: Library and Information Management Level 6 listings
- TVETA licensed institution register
- TVET-CDACC courses and assessment
- Kenya National Qualifications Authority
