Current State of Library and Information Science Development in China

Abstract

Since 1978, China has embarked upon an ambitious program of reform known as the "Four Modernizations," one of which stresses the importance of science and technology. Being aware of the urgency of needs in the realm of library and information science, party and state leaders, especially those charge of education and cultural affairs, have called for all-out efforts to develop this aspect of Chinese education. As a result, a variety of formal and nonformal training programs have been introduced in educational institu- tions at both the secondary and higher levels. This article's objective is to survey the current state of affairs in library and information science development in China, as reflected in training programs that have been introduced in recent years, to present as a case study the establishment of new department of library and information science at Sichuan University, and to survey briefly the curriculum now in