ENHANCING THE SELF-EMPLOYMENT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE GRADUATES THROUGH ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION

Purpose: This study focused on enhancing the self-employment of library and information science graduates through entrepreneurship education. Design/Methodology/Approach: An exploratory approach through extensive review of related literature was adopted for this study. Findings: The paper revealed various entrepreneurial opportunities in library and information science (LIS) profession such as information brokerage, book publishing, printing, book trading, binding services, computer and internet services, library software dealership, freelancing among others. The paper also revealed various skills needed to explore and exploit entrepreneurship opportunities in library and information science such as critical and creative thinking skills, strategic thinking and planning skills, networking skills, time management skills, leadership skills, communication skills, etc. Furthermore, the challenges associated with repositioning library and information graduates for self-employment as revealed by the paper includes access to capital; inability to use technology; inability to identify potential market among others. Implication: Suggested strategies for repositioning library and information graduates for self-employment include the provision of capital, training on the use of technology, awareness of potential market and favourable government policies. Originality/Value: It was recommended that LIS schools should introduce and engage in different skill acquisition programmes and introduce entrepreneurship courses in their curriculum; library and information science professionals should enroll in skill acquisition programmes in order to acquire necessary entrepreneurial skills and competencies; government and financial institutions should facilitate access to low interest loan facilities and other support services needed by LIS entrepreneurs; government should also initiate policies that will be favourable to young investors by reduction of excessive taxes and other actions that will sustain both small and medium-scale enterprises among others. Keywords: entrepreneurship; library; library and information science; employment; employability; graduates; professionals; opportunities. Paper Type: Conceptual/Exploratory