Top 10 Research Topics
Introduction
The IGNOU MLIP-002 Project is one of the most significant parts of the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) course. It gives students the opportunity to apply theoretical ideas to practice by conducting research hands-on. But finding the perfect research topic for MLIP-002 is difficult — it should be relevant, researchable, and make a difference to the developing discipline of Library and Information Science (LIS).
In this article, we introduce you to Top 10 Research Topics for MLIP-002 Project Work, including explanations, research aims, methodologies, and outcomes. Whether you’re interested in digital libraries, user behaviour, or bibliometric analysis, this detailed guide will assist you in choosing a proper project topic and developing a sound basis for your MLIS research.
Understanding the MLIP-002 Project Work
Before we proceed with the topics, let us know what MLIP-002 is all about.
Course Overview
Course Code: MLIP-002
Course Title: Project Work
Program: Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) – IGNOU
Credit Weightage: 4 Credits
The project is a core part that allows students to apply research principles to address practical issues in library management, digital information systems, user satisfaction, information retrieval, and others.
Project Objectives
- To cultivate research orientation among MLIS students.
- To use theoretical concepts to solve real-life library or information issues.
- To develop research methodology understanding.
- To add to Library and Information Science practice from original observations.
MLIP-002 Project Work Structure
The project typically consists of:
- Topic Selection
- Research Proposal/Synopsis Submission
- Data Collection & Analysis
- Report Writing and Submission
Choosing the appropriate topic is the key to a successful project. Let us now look at some of the most effective research topic ideas.
Top 10 Research Topics for MLIP-002 Project Work
1. Impact of Digital Libraries on Academic Research: A Case Study of University Libraries
Overview:
With the digitization of libraries, the transition from print to digital resources has revolutionized the manner in which researchers access and utilize information. The present topic investigates the influence of digital libraries on research productivity among academics.
Objectives:
- To gauge how accessibility of research has been enhanced through digital libraries.
- To examine the level of user satisfaction with digital resources.
- To recognize difficulties experienced by users in accessing digital materials.
Research Methodology:
Survey technique with questionnaires having fixed questions on the faculty, researchers, and students.
Expected Outcome:
Recommendations for enhancing digital library usability and accessibility.
2. Role of Social Media in Library Services: Opportunities and Challenges
Overview:
New libraries are making use of social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to connect with more people. This theme discusses the way libraries are incorporating social media for user outreach and information sharing.
Objectives:
- To investigate social media’s role in publicizing library services.
- To learn about the views of librarians when they use social sites.
- To reveal difficulties in maintaining social media pages for libraries.
Research Methodology:
Case study and library staff interviews.
Expected Outcome:
Measures to improve the library’s social media presence and user engagement.
3. User Satisfaction with Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) in University Libraries
Overview:
The Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) is the core of library automation. This study is aimed at user satisfaction and usability of OPAC systems.
Objectives:
- To assess the efficacy of OPAC in information retrieval.
- To investigate users’ experiences and issues.
- To propose changes for improved interface design.
Research Methodology:
Quantitative survey using Likert-scale questionnaires.
Expected Outcome:
Insights into enhancing OPAC usability and functionality.
4. Information-Seeking Behavior of Postgraduate Students in the Digital Age
Overview:
Information-seeking behavior has changed with digital technology. This theme explores how postgraduate students search for, assess, and utilize information in scholarly environments.
Objectives:
- To explore sources of information preferred by students.
- To realize students’ search strategies.
- To examine obstacles encountered in retrieving information.
Research Methodology:
Mixed-method approach (survey + interviews).
Expected Outcome:
In-depth model of student information-seeking trends within digital environments.
5. Bibliometric Study of Research Output in Library and Information Science (2015–2025)
Overview:
Bibliometric analysis is quantitative analysis of scholarly literature. This is a subject of analyzing publications in the LIS area during a ten-year span.
Objectives:
- To analyze publication trends in LIS.
- To determine high-producivity authors, institutions, and journals.
- To analyze citation impact and collaborative patterns of research.
Research Methodology:
Bibliometric analysis through databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, or Google Scholar.
Expected Outcome:
Knowledge of global trends and areas of growth in LIS research.
6. Evaluation of Library Automation Software Used in College Libraries
Overview:
Library automation eases cataloging, circulation, and acquisition tasks. This project assesses the effectiveness of widely used library automation software like KOHA, SOUL, and NewGenLib.
Objectives:
- To make a comparison between various library automation systems.
- To study librarian satisfaction levels.
- To recognize implementation and training challenges.
Research Methodology:
Comparative case study and structured interviews.
Expected Outcome:
Suggestions on the choice and implementation of the most appropriate automation software.
7. Faculty Members’ Awareness and Use of E-Resources in Higher Education Institutions
Overview:
E-resources like e-journals, databases, and digital repositories are critical for academic research. This subject evaluates how well faculty members make use of them.
Objectives:
- To gauge awareness levels regarding e-resources.
- To analyze usage patterns among faculty.
- To measure satisfaction and hindrances in accessing digital resources.
Research Methodology:
Survey and descriptive statistical analysis.
Expected Outcome:
Recommendations for enhancing e-resource accessibility and training programs.
8. Digitization and Preservation of Rare Library Collections: Practices and Challenges
Overview:
Preservation of rare documents and historical documents poses a significant challenge to libraries. This subject explores digitization efforts and preservation methods in special or academic libraries.
Objectives:
- To analyze prevailing preservation practices.
- To determine challenges in digitization.
- To recommend best practices for long-term preservation.
Research Methodology:
Qualitative research consisting of observation and interviews of librarians.
Expected Outcome:
Practical guidelines for successful digitization and preservation initiatives.
9. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Role in Improving Library Services
Overview:
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the way libraries process data and engage with users. This project investigates AI usage in cataloging, recommendation systems, and virtual support.
Objectives:
- To research AI-driven library tools and technologies.
- To examine librarians’ attitudes towards AI implementation.
- To assess the influence of AI on user experience.
Research Methodology:
Literature review and case studies.
Expected Outcome:
Identification of upcoming AI trends and their applications in practice in libraries.
10. Evaluation of Information Literacy Skills of College Students
Overview:
Information literacy is crucial for academic achievement. This subject assesses the competence of students in finding, analyzing, and utilizing information effectively.
Objectives:
- To measure the degree of information literacy in students.
- To analyze the role of libraries in literacy programs.
- To devise a model for developing information literacy skills.
Research Methodology:
Questionnaire surveys and skill tests.
Expected Outcome:
Designing plans for incorporating information literacy training within academic curricula.
How to Select the Most Appropriate MLIP-002 Project Topic
Your project topic selection is an important step. Here’s how to make the most appropriate choice:
- Tune in to your interest: Select a topic that you truly find interesting.
- Guarantee data availability: Select a topic for which abundant data can be gathered.
- Consider relevance: Your subject has to relate to current issues in the LIS discipline.
- Check feasibility: Determine if the subject can be done within your time and resource constraints.
5. Consult your guide: Discuss your subject ideas with your project supervisor for comments.
How to Carry Out Your MLIP-002 Project Work
- Choose and confirm your subject.
- Make your project proposal/synopsis according to IGNOU guidelines.
- Submit the proposal to your regional center for clearance.
- Carry out research and gather data according to your methodology.
- Analyse data and interpret results.
- Prepare your report according to the IGNOU project guidelines.
- Bind and submit your project within time at the regional center.
Writing Hints for a Top-Score MLIP-002 Report
- Make use of credible and authentic sources for your literature review.
- Present accurate objectives and brief methodology.
- Make use of charts, tables, and graphs to support data analysis.
- Use proper citation and referencing according to APA format.
Proofread the report for clarity, grammar, and formatting.
Conclusion
The MLIP-002 Project is an opportunity for MLIS students to explore meaningful topics and contribute to the advancement of Library and Information Science. The above Top 10 research topics are designed to provide both academic depth and practical relevance. Whether you’re interested in digital transformation, AI integration, or user behavior analysis, selecting the right topic will shape the quality and success of your research.
Choose wisely, plan strategically, and execute your project systematically — and you’ll be well on your way to producing a project report that stands out and earns top grades.