It is an independent degree-granting unit of the University of the Philippines Diliman, and offers programs in the field of library and information science.

In December 2015, the Commission on Higher Education declared the school as the first and only Center of Excellence among universities and colleges with library and information programs in the Philippines.

[3] UP SLIS was situated in the South Wing on the 3rd Floor of the Gonzalez Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City.

The program aims to prepare students for career opportunities in professional librarianship, publishing and book trade, and information-related business[4].

On March 27, 2007, the Board of Regents approved the Institute's petition to rename itself as the School of Library and Information Studies.

In 2008, it started limited publication of its print version and has since been made available through the University of the Philippines Diliman Journals Online portal.

The School also publishes the information sheet SLIS Newsletter (available online through the official website) and its library produces guides, updates and current awareness services.