International Journal of Educational Research and Library & Information Science

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a significant shift in India’s higher education system by emphasizing holistic learning, multidisciplinary education, equity, inclusion, and the effective use of information and communication technologies. Within this framework, higher education libraries are repositioned as central components of the academic and research ecosystem rather than as auxiliary support units. This conceptual paper examines the implementation of NEP 2020 in higher education libraries by analyzing policy directives, institutional responsibilities, and emerging functional expectations. The study adopts a qualitative, theory-based approach grounded in policy analysis and library and information science literature, without relying on empirical data or statistical methods. It explores how NEP 2020 reinforces the role of libraries in digital transformation, open access initiatives, research data management, information literacy, faculty collaboration, and inclusive educational practices. Particular attention is given to governance, leadership, autonomy, funding models, capacity building, and quality assurance mechanisms that influence library effectiveness under the new policy regime. The paper also highlights challenges associated with infrastructure readiness, professional development, equitable access, and sustainable resource management. By synthesizing policy objectives with contemporary library practices, the study provides a coherent conceptual understanding of how higher education libraries can align their strategies with NEP 2020. The paper concludes that libraries are critical enablers of the policy’s vision to develop India into a global knowledge society and must proactively adapt to ensure meaningful and sustained implementation.