Abstract

This study aims to identify the core competencies required in the field of Library and Information Science (LIS) and to propose curriculum design strategies based on these competencies. The expansion and increasing demand for librarian certification pathways have led to the weakening of professional expertise and growing uncertainty in the job market. In response, this research collected competency-related data from the websites of 16 four-year LIS programs at universities across the country and qualitative data through in-depth interviews with professors from related academic fields and public library managers. The analysis identified five core competencies in LIS: information management and processing, information technology and data utilization, library management and collaboration, user services and communication, and cultural and community understanding. Based on these competencies, the study suggests curriculum design strategies across institutional, practical, and educational dimensions. This research serves as a foundational resource for improving LIS curricula and certification systems and is expected to facilitate collaborative discussions between educators and practitioners in the field.