ITIL is an information technology infrastructure library that consists of best practices for IT service management. It includes five core publications that define processes and functions for strategizing, designing, transitioning, operating, and continually improving technology services aligned with business needs. ITIL aims to standardize IT service management and was introduced in 1989, with subsequent versions refining its framework and processes. Benefits of adopting ITIL include improved alignment between IT and business goals, better visibility into operations, enhanced customer service, quality improvements, and reduced disruptions.