Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals

Overview

The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) is the professional body for librarians, information professionals and knowledge specialists in the United Kingdom. Based in London, CILIP represents and supports those working in libraries, archives, information services and knowledge management across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. The Institute serves a broad community of information professionals, from practising librarians to information managers, knowledge officers, records professionals and information specialists. Whether you work in academic, public, special or corporate libraries, or in related information and knowledge fields, CILIP is the primary professional home for information professionals seeking professional recognition, development, networking and a collective voice within the sector.

Who Should Join?

CILIP is relevant to a wide range of information and library professionals across the UK:

• Librarians and library managers working in public, academic, school or special libraries
• Information specialists and information managers in corporate, government and public sector organisations
• Knowledge officers and knowledge management professionals
• Archives professionals, records managers and heritage specialists
• Academic and research librarians in universities and research institutions
• School librarians and teacher librarians
• Digital and technology professionals working in information services
• Early-career information professionals and recent graduates entering the field
• Students studying library science, information management, archives or related qualifications

CILIP offers multiple membership categories to suit different stages of a professional career. Individual membership is available to qualified information professionals, while student membership supports those studying for relevant qualifications. The Institute also welcomes institutional members (such as libraries, universities and organisations) and retired professionals. Membership eligibility typically depends on professional qualification, relevant work experience or current study in an accredited programme.

Why Join?

CILIP membership provides professional recognition and credibility within the library and information sector. By joining, you become part of the UK's established professional community in your field and gain access to a network of peers, mentors and sector leaders. Membership demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and ethics, enhancing your standing with employers and service users.

For career development, membership offers structured pathways to professional qualifications, continuing professional development opportunities and access to expert guidance. This is particularly valuable for those seeking promotion, moving into specialist roles or developing expertise in emerging areas such as digital literacy, data management or information governance.

CILIP provides a collective voice for information professionals in sector discussions, policy development and government engagement. By joining, you contribute to advocacy on issues affecting the profession—such as public library funding, digital access and information literacy—and benefit from the Institute's influence in shaping the future of libraries and information services.

Member Benefits & Opportunities

Professional Development & Qualifications

CILIP members access professional development resources, training courses and support for achieving professional qualifications. The Institute oversees professional standards and accreditation within the sector, enabling members to work towards recognised credentials that enhance career prospects and professional standing.

Networking & Community

Membership connects you with a national community of library and information professionals. CILIP organises events, conferences and special interest groups where members can meet peers, share knowledge and discuss sector developments. These networks are valuable for career development, peer support and discovering new opportunities.

Publications & Knowledge Resources

Members gain access to journals, research publications and guidance on professional practice. CILIP produces authoritative resources on emerging trends, best practice and sector challenges, helping members stay informed and develop their expertise.

Sector Leadership & Advocacy

Through membership, professionals contribute to and benefit from CILIP's work in developing professional standards, codes of conduct and guidance for good practice. Members have a voice in the Institute's advocacy work, influencing policy discussions and representing the sector's interests with government and public bodies.

Career Support

CILIP provides career guidance, job resources and mentoring opportunities to support professional progression. Members can access advice on career development, training in emerging skills and support for moving into specialist roles or taking on leadership responsibilities.

Industry Role & Professional Standing

CILIP is the recognised professional authority for librarians and information professionals in the UK. The Institute develops and maintains professional standards, competency frameworks and codes of conduct that establish professional expectations and ethical practice across the sector. It accredits professional qualifications and development programmes, ensuring that information professionals meet recognised standards.

The Institute plays a significant role in research and policy development, contributing to sector discussions on topics such as public library provision, digital access, information literacy and the future of libraries. CILIP engages with government, public bodies and other stakeholders to advocate for the value of libraries and information services and to influence policy affecting the profession.

By supporting professional standards, conducting research and contributing to sector development, CILIP enhances the credibility and influence of the entire information profession. Membership connects you to this established professional community and signals your commitment to professional excellence and ethical practice.