This paper supports the appropriateness of the objectives of the Librarianship and Information Science (LIS) graduate university studies system in Spain. It identifies formulas to allow the construction of innovative study plans which are attractive within the information society. LIS university studies started in Spain in the 1990s although professional training has been available since the 19th century. This gives an historic perspective from which to analyse what has been done and the goals achieved using different parameters. The authors have adopted a critical vision because they argue that the objectives defined for LIS programs have only marginally been achieved, and the new fields and work prospects have not been very well explored. As a result, an important fall in the registration of students in the LIS degree has occurred over recent years. (Contains 1 footnote and 8 tables.)