Book excerpt: "Fundamentals of Library and Information Science" is a fundamental work that investigates the ideas, beliefs, and practices that are associated with the subject of library and information science. It explores the history of libraries and how they have developed throughout time, from the first library that included scrolls to the most recent digital collections. The book sheds light on the function of libraries as portals to information, culture, and knowledge, highlighting the value of libraries in fostering literacy, education, and intellectual liberation. The purpose of this book is to provide the groundwork for your journey into the fascinating and fulfilling field of library and information science by providing you with a suitable starting point. Both present and future information workers need to maintain a high level of knowledge and adaptability to keep up with the fast evolution of the field of library and information science (LIS), which is being driven by developments in technology and shifts in how people use information. Whether you are a student who is thinking about pursuing a career in library and information science (LIS), a practicing librarian who is looking to expand your knowledge, or simply someone who is interested in understanding how information is managed and accessed in today's society, the purpose of this book is to provide you with a solid foundation in the practice and principles of library and information science.