CILIP Statement on the House of Commons Education Committee report: Reading for Pleasure

The House of Commons Education Committee, Chaired by Helen Hayes MP, has released its much-anticipated report, Reading for Pleasure. CILIP has welcomed the report’s findings and is calling on Government to implement key recommendations around public and school libraries.

The inquiry heard from key stakeholders representing libraries, schools and publishing, including evidence from CILIP’s Chief Development Officer Sonia Ramdhian, who spoke at a committee hearing earlier this year. The aim of the six-month inquiry was to identify the reasons behind the long-term decline in reading for pleasure among young people and deliver a set of recommendations to reverse the trend.

CILIP’s evidence to inquiry highlighted the value of librarians and libraries in opening-up reading to a wider audience. The inquiry also heard that cuts to library services, which are often worse in deprived areas and therefore have an even bigger impact, has had a direct effect on children being able to access books and reading resources. CILIP particularly welcomes the reports recognition of the positive impact school and public libraries and librarians can have on developing a love of reading.

Librarians expertly provide their diverse and unique user communities with safe and welcoming spaces for reading; and proactively engage readers of all ages through a wide range of events, literacy programmes and other activities.

Sonia said: “The Education Committee’s Reading for Pleasure report provides a thorough and well-evidenced look at the causes of the decline in young people reading for pleasure. It highlights the many benefits that come from a love of reading, including improved mental health and wellbeing, and better attainment in schools – all things that CILIP and our members have been advocating for for many years.

“But more importantly it offers a series of recommendations that can help to reverse the decline and get more young people reading. Public and Sschool and public libraries are already doing amazing work to engage young people, but as the report rightly points out this work is being severely hampered by years of cuts to services and the trained and dedicated library staff that deliver them.”

CILIP welcomes the committee’s conclusion that school libraries are not optional enhancements but essential infrastructure—powerful equalisers that ensure every child, regardless of background, can engage with reading and realise their potential. Vital funding

CILIP wholeheartedly supports the committee’s calls to government to provide much needed funds for library services, both in schools and on high streets in our cities, towns and villages. Libraries offer remarkable value for money and deliver an incredible return on investment for taxpayers.

If library services are given the funding they deserve for books, buildings and staff development, then pupils and local communities reap the rewards many times over. Our members are already working hard to provide opportunities for young people to engage with books that they will love – whether it is through our Carnegies Medals and Shadowing scheme, running the Summer Reading Challenge or helping young readers find their next book. They are ready to make the most of any new opportunities that come out of this important report, and CILIP is here to support them along the way.

As the report’s conclusion points out: “We cannot hope to build a reading nation without the places where reading lives. Public and communitySchool and public libraries play an essential role in supporting children and their families to access books, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds,. The impact of closures and cuts in provision is deeply concerning; it is imperative that all communities have access to libraries to help reverse the decline in reading for pleasure.

In light of this positive report, CILIP. looks forward to partnering with the interested Government departments to support with any workforce development, training and education needs.

Key recommendations from the report:

• More national moments to promote reading for pleasure throughout the year and a National Decade of Reading, for which CILIP’s Carnegies Awards are ideally placed;
• That the Department for Education should extend its pledge to fund a library in every primary school to include every secondary school; that the Department must recognise school libraries as essential public services and place them on a statutory footing, and as a first step, it must start collecting data on school libraries and the presence of dedicated library staff by adding this to the school census;
• That the Department for Education should introduce a school library development fund to enable schools to refresh their book stock and train staff to run their school library with maximum impact;
• That the Department for Education should set an expectation for all schools to include dedicated library lessons in the school timetable, to ensure that all pupils are encouraged and supported to use their library;
• That the Department for Education must update its design guidelines for new schools and new school buildings to ensure that a library is specified as an essential component of every new school, including primary, secondary and special schools;
• The Department for Education, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government must work together to create a ‘golden thread’ of reading support across a child’s life and ensure that the forthcoming strategy for public libraries has reading for pleasure among children and young people at its heart. At a minimum, they must fully implement the findings of the 2023 review into public libraries, in particular those which relate to expanding library membership and more joined-up work on libraries in government;
• The Department for Culture, Media and Sport and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government must commit to restoring the funding for public libraries that has been lost since 2010 by the end of this Parliament. They should also establish a ‘library sufficiency standard’ for local authorities and work with local authorities to fill gaps in provision, including through partnership working with community organisations and universities and colleges.

Read the full report here.

Welcome to the new Green Library Hubs inspiring climate action

CILIP recently invited expressions of interest from public library authorities interested in joining the second cohort of the Green Library Hubs project, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.

Thank you to everyone who submitted an application. We undertook a comprehensive assessment and selection process and selected three new Green Library Hubs which will run for two years from September 2026. Each new Green Library Hub has an exciting and inclusive programme of activities planned:

Redruth Library, Cornwall, South-West England

• They will be delivering local activity to reflect seasonal challenges, across urban, rural and coastal communities. This includes a programme of community outreach including a mobile Climate Information Hub.

Photo: Redruth Library team, Cornwall

Gateshead Libraries, North-East England

• Their activities will include a programme of workshops and sustainable creative activities for all ages, using their library garden and other outdoor spaces to host sessions. They will be working with a number of audiences including young people, who will use technologies such as podcasting to share sustainability messages and explore the impact of AI on climate change.

Leabharlainn nan Eilean Siar/Western Isles Libraries, Scotland

• Their programming will be locally relevant and rooted in the islands’ Gaelic culture. They will be taking climate action activity to residents in some of the UK’s most rural areas, through outreach and mobile libraries.

We will be recruiting another four Green Library Hubs for year 3 of the project and the application timeline will be announced in the CILIP newsletter, on the CILIP website and on social media. Previous applicants are eligible to apply.

“We are delighted to welcome three new Green Library Hubs to this innovative project. We received over 30 applications in total showing the dedication and passion of public libraries to support their users to take positive climate action in their communities. The new Green Library Hubs will join Blackburn with Darwen Libraries, Guildford Library and Pancras Square Library”.

Eve Wilson, Project Manager, Green Library Hubs

Read about the selection process

Fig.1 Shahnila Khan-Shafiq outside Bridgeton Library, Glasgow, Scotland

This year's Libraries Change Lives Weeks kicks off next week (running from 1-7 June at libraries across the country). In the National Year of Reading, CILIP's week-long celebration of libraries and the people who work in them focuses on reading and literacy and the impact they have on people's lives. Here Shahnila Khan-Shafiq explains how Bridgeton Library, Glasgow is changing lives for the better in its community.

Hello, my name is Shahnila and I am the Supervisor at Bridgeton library fig.1. This library is in the east end of Glasgow (Scotland), and is the heart of the community, serving approximately 21,776 people. Our local community is diverse, and our library offers a variety of services for adults, young people and children. The Public Libraries Act (1850) marked a turning point in British history, establishing public libraries as we recognise them today. Our library and staff (fig.2) changes lives through the amazing services it provides and the community connections it creates. Glasgow Life Libraries offer books, digital resources, BIPC business tools, reading groups, and community outreach.

Fig.2 Bridgeton Library Staff outside on a sunny Glasgow day

Our library changes lives through its amazing staff, its library offer and the dynamic way all the co-location services i.e. MacMillan Cancer Support fig.3, Digi-Pals, Family Finance, Adult Learning, Community Development and all parts of Glasgow Life Communities, Libraries and Museums come together to support the community of Bridgeton.

Fig3. MacMillan Cancer Support

Recently we had a very special visitor from the Scottish Book Trust as part of Bookbug Week Scotland fig.4. Anna Lehr (professional storyteller) delivered a special session with Bookbug audiences at our venue, and it was a very popular event. We regularly have author events and community events based at our venue. Our library was also used as a polling station for election day.

Fg.4. Staff with Bookbug Mascot.

Fg.4.1 Children's Reading Area in the library.

We have many things in place to make sure our library continues to change lives see fig5. our "Vision for Glasgow Libraries" strategic vision focuses on making public libraries in your area inclusive, safe hubs for wellbeing, skills, and climate action. I am so proud of my staff who continuously champion the library and make it an inclusive place to work fig.6. I also think the staff go above and beyond for all our library patrons and create a cohesive community environment where everyone feels welcome. Our library plays a vital role within the community in providing a free space which gives access to collections, technology, training and trustworthy information which fosters lifelong learning, cultural engagement and active citizenship. Our library offers a multi-functional hub which addresses the social needs of our service users whilst contributing to social justice and economic development.

Fig.5 Be Well + and Feel Well sessions in the library

Fig.6 Beautiful book displays at Bridgeton Library

Our library building use to be a local thriving cinema and sits in the beautiful Olympia building fig.7 and still has a lot of reminders of its old past through having posters of famous actors on the walls, beautiful artwork of the venue and historical reference fig.6. I think it adds to the culture and creative past of the library and is its charm.

It is a very special place and as well as reducing loneliness and isolation, providing health and wellbeing initiatives i.e. MacMillan Cancer Support information, Be Well+, Museums Feel Well object handling sessions, digital support and information i.e. Digi-pals, digital learning classes, family finance support, it also boosts economic value and creates a library space with a commitment to local needs and social justice. The value of public library is immeasurable, and it is an institution that has evolved with the times and adapted to its surrounding for the benefit of the community.

Fig.7 history of Bridgeton

Fig.8 Bridgeton Library Olympia Building

Find out more about this year's Libraries Change Lives Week and download your free resources to take part.

The latest phase of an inquiry into how to develop Reading for Pleasure has heard from CILIP’s Chief Development Officer Sonia Ramdhian, who joined partners from across the library and publishing world.

The Education Select Committee has been looking into the issue, following recent research that showed a sharp drop in reading for pleasure. The National Literacy Trust revealed that just one in three children aged eight to 18 read in their spare time – a 36 per cent decrease since 2005. The survey also found a particularly pronounced drop over the last year among primary school children. Reading continues to be less popular among boys than girls.

In light of those findings the select committee, chaired by Helen Hayes MP, opened an inquiry in November. Helen said: “Reading for pleasure has long given both stimulation and sanctuary to children and adults across the globe, whilst also teaching wisdom and wit. It has been considered an essential building block of learning and understanding the world around us. But right now, we appear to be witnessing a generational shift.

“The Education Committee wants to understand the forces at play and what the consequences could be for children’s lives. Crucially, we will look across the academic space, and at good practice in schools and communities, for solutions.”

CILIP has fed into that inquiry throughout its investigation, and on Tuesday 19 May Sonia gave live evidence to the panel alongside representatives from Libraries Connected , the Publishers Association, The Booksellers Association Association, Merky Books, the Community Libraries Network and the Chief Cultural and Leisure Officers Association (CLOA), as well as Waterstones Children’s Laureate, Frank Cottrell-Boyce.

Sonia highlighted the role of skills, representation and community connection in ensuring libraries remain relevant, inclusive and impactful – saying: “Staff with skills and experience, a shared body of knowledge, a shared set of ethical principles. Those principles are across the different library settings. Library staff should reflect the communities they work with, and we have a huge body of work to actually have the workforce of the future ahead of us, making sure it reflects their communities and that they can connect with their communities in meaningful ways.”

You can watch a full recording of the session here.

Earth Day celebrations with the Green Library Hubs

The first three Green Library Hubs have been live since autumn 2025 and recently delivered an engaging programme of activities for Earth Day 2026. The theme was ‘Our Power, Our Planet’. This aligns with the Green Library Hubs which are rooted in their local library, nurture grassroots climate action and inspire community awareness.

Camden libraries

• Camden ran a Climate Café at The British Library, supported by Force of Nature. It was a relaxed and informal session, where some insightful and honest conversations took place. The team carried out an exercise inspired by author and artist Morgan Harper Nichols, creating simple drawings to express complex emotions. These cafés will become part of their regular programming, and one attendee said: “I will look at climate change differently. There are things every one of us can do without much effort and which will make a difference over time.”

Guildford Library, Surrey

• Guildford Library Green Hub was proud to host their Earth Day celebration starting with a special story time in the morning with colouring- in sheets of the earth and animals. This was followed by ‘decorate a bug hotel’ events which had children decorating, painting, and filling their bug hotel with sticks, hollow stems and other materials. Feedback from the children and parents was positive with children describing what they had learned about bugs, caring for wildlife and how to use eco-friendly paints.

Blackburn with Darwen libraries

• An Earth Day display, which included a spin the wheel with ideas on how people can get involved to celebrate, positive environmental news, earth themed fun facts, and Green Library Hub book recommendations

• An ocean themed Read Rhythm and Rhyme session, and an under the sea themed Baby Storytime and Rhyme

• Earth Day colouring sheets at all libraries– enjoyed by children all day.

Earth Day – photo courtesy of Blackburn with Darwen Libraries

The Green Library Hubs project is a three-year project, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and led by CILIP to support libraries and their users to take climate action in their communities. It is delivered in partnership with the British Library, Julie's Bicycle and CAG Consultants along with 10 public libraries.

Find out more about the Green Library Hubs project

Green Library Hubs: Hurry - applications close Friday 17 April

The deadline is fast approaching for public libraries across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to apply to become a Green Library Hub. CILIP is looking for three Green Library Hubs to run over a two-year period, from September 2026 to August 2028. This is a great opportunity for libraries and their communities to take meaningful climate action together.

Our first three Green Library Hubs have been live since autumn 2025 and have an exciting calendar of activities and events planned. Some recent activities include:

Blackburn with Darwen libraries

• Undertaking public engagement to understand what people want locally from their Green Library Hub through eco-forums and drop ins so people can have their say and shape what happens next.

Guildford Library, Surrey

• Worked with internal departments and volunteers to deliver a tree giveaway within the library, with over 150 trees given away for free to members of the local community for use within their own garden.

Tree giveaway – photo courtesy of Surrey Libraries

Camden libraries

• Delivered hands-on workshops for adults and children to create miniature scenes, using arts and crafts, which show how different people and animals are affected by climate change.

If your library authority is interested in becoming a Green Library Hub, please complete the Expression of Interest Form and return to Eve Wilson, Project Manager, Green Library Hubs, CILIP by 5pm on Friday 17 April 2026.

Find out more and apply

CILIP invites expressions of interest from public library authorities interested in joining the second cohort of the Green Library Hubs project.

We are looking for three Green Library Hubs to run over a two-year period, from September 2026 to August 2028 across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Launched in September 2025, the Green Library Hubs project is a three-year project to establish community space for environmental learning and events, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and led by CILIP to support libraries and their users to take climate action in their communities. It is delivered in partnership with the British Library, Julie's Bicycle and CAG Consultants along with 10 public libraries.

Each Green Library Hub is rooted in its local library, offering welcoming spaces that inspire community awareness and nurture grassroots climate action.

The first three Green Library Hubs are already live at:

• Pancras Square Library, London Borough of Camden
• Blackburn with Darwen Libraries
• Guildford Library, Surrey County Council

Each Green Library Hub aims to deliver place-based activity with a focus on:

• Engaging with people from disadvantaged and hard-to-reach communities
• Delivering local climate action activities linked with everyday lives, interests and daily challenges for local residents
• Aligning with local Zero Carbon/Net Zero initiatives or strategies

To find out more about who can apply, what is a Green Library Hub, and funding, read the specification for year two.

Find out more & apply

If your library authority is interested in applying, complete the Expression of Interest Form and return to Eve Wilson, Project Manager, Green Library Hubs, CILIP by 5pm on Friday 17 April 2026.

This National Apprenticeship Week 2026, we have been celebrating the impact of apprenticeships on the library, information and archive sector in creating more accessible, diverse, and inclusive routes into the profession.

The library and information profession is now embracing apprenticeships as an important pathway that is opening doors to talented individuals from all backgrounds and life stages.

A more inclusive workforce

One in five learners successfully completing the Level 3 Library, information and archive services apprenticeship declare a disability, and this is a trend reflected across the country and the breadth of apprenticeships available, with 16.5 per cent of learners recorded nationally.

Apprenticeships are creating accessible, exciting and cost-effective routes into the profession, encouraging a varied workforce which reflects our communities and benefits the sector.

Apprenticeship programs are also attracting learners across all age groups. Nationally, over 48% of apprentices who started programs were aged 25 and over. Apprenticeship statistics for England - House of Commons Library / the library sector reflects this trend, with many mature learners using apprenticeships to change careers or professionalise their existing roles.

Flor De Maria Coto De Lemus’s story

“I faced challenges as a mature woman with family commitments, but that same life experience gave me the determination to apply for the apprenticeship and see it through to the end. The process became far more accessible thanks to the constant support of my manager, supervisor, and colleagues at the library, who took the time to teach me everything I needed to complete my reports and progress with confidence.

I found the assessment process clear and respectful, and it genuinely valued my experience and the way I work.

Now that I have my qualification, I look back on the journey with pride: it allowed me to grow, strengthen my skills, and demonstrate that—regardless of age or starting point—perseverance and the right support can open new opportunities.”

Aimy Stevens’s story

“I work at Edge Hill University. I’m part of the 2024 cohort of Level 7 Archivist and Records Manager Apprentices. I’m very fortunate that, in my day-to-day work, I get to engage with a wide range of fascinating collections, including film materials, which I’m especially passionate about as I have a background in film.

I’m really grateful for the apprenticeship because it provides the stability I need as a mother of four. It has allowed me to work full-time while studying, building my career, and developing professionally. Balancing family life with study and professional growth is a big part of my journey!”

Good news for employers

Employers in the sector are equally enthusiastic. Library and archive employers report that having the ability to take on an apprentice has provided them with flexibility in their recruiting strategies.

The retention rates speak for themselves with around 60 per cent of apprentices staying with their employer once they are qualified. Through apprenticeships, we are providing organisations with skilled, committed professionals who understand their culture and communities.

Nicola Gannon’s story

“I had no previous experience or education relevant to library services, but I found the apprenticeship incredibly approachable, and both the library staff and my tutor helped to make me feel comfortable in a new environment.

”The programme has helped push me into planning and delivering my own events and activities while also learning the correct policies, procedures, and legislation.

“I believe this course has boosted my confidence, developed my communications and interpersonal skills, and has greatly contributed to my level of professionalism. I think this apprenticeship has helped develop my knowledge to the point where I am confident in my abilities.

“Since I completed the apprenticeship, I have successfully secured a permanent post in a local library with potential for further development into other sectors within the service. I will be keen to further opportunities to further develop my professional skills and knowledge.”

Breaking down barriers

Apprenticeships represent more than just an alternative training route. By supporting them we are opening access to the profession and challenging long-standing assumptions about who can succeed in our sector.

By removing financial barriers, accommodating diverse life circumstances, and valuing practical experience alongside academic knowledge, these programmes are helping to build a workforce that truly represents the diversity of the UK population.

As libraries, archives and information services continue to evolve to meet the needs of their communities and business needs, the apprenticeship pathway is ensuring that the professionals serving those communities come from those communities themselves.

Be part of the success!

For more information on CILIP Pathways, the standards we assess, and our expert assessment services you can find details here or you can contact us on email.

Thanks to National Lottery players, CILIP has received over £1.2m for its Green Library Hubs project to support libraries and their users to take climate action in their communities.

This comes from the Climate Action Fund, a £100 million commitment over 10 years from The National Lottery Community Fund to support communities across the UK to take action on climate change and involve more people in climate action.

The Green Library Hubs project, which runs for three-years, started in autumn 2025, and will be delivered in partnership with the British Library, Julie's Bicycle and CAG Consultants, along with 10 public libraries across the UK. These Hubs are envisaged as spaces rooted in local libraries that act as catalysts for community awareness, behaviour change and grassroots action on climate change.

Each Green Library Hub will:

• Serve as a community space for environmental learning and events
• Humanise the climate crisis through local relevance and engagement
• Support partnerships with local groups, schools, and climate organisations
• Equip library staff with environmental literacy and community engagement tools

The first three Green Library Hubs are now live:

• Pancras Square Library, London Borough of Camden
• Blackburn with Darwen Libraries
• Guildford Libraries, Surrey County Council

With a further seven libraries to be selected in year two and three of the programme, through an open call for expressions of interest.

Activities delivered through the Green Library Hubs will support the Green Libraries Campaign. Learning and resources from the project will be shared to inspire future climate action through the role of libraries in their communities.

As part of the Green Library Hubs project, library partners delivered a range of activities to celebrate Green Libraries Week 2025.

Camden Libraries

• Camden highlighted their green libraries work at the Green Libraries Conference and delivered workshops on Visible Mending, Eco Bird Feeders and Leaf Printing to celebrate Green Libraries week with residents.

Blackburn with Darwen Libraries

• Activity day attended by over 180 people in the community with Green Libraries Week tote bags
• Distribution of activity bags across libraries that can be used for self-directed activities (SEND suitable)
• Book folding events, Beach Guardian Plastic Pollution workshops, puppet show and dance theatre performance – on environmental themes.

Activity bags – photo courtesy of Blackburn with Darwen Libraries

Surrey Libraries

• Activity took place in Guildford library and across the county including promoting the Library of Things, biodegradable library cards and the seed bank.
• Local environmental charity drop-in sessions on topics including energy advice and recycling.
• Focused sessions - nature story time, wildlife trails, themed book displays and recycling modelling sessions for children.

British Library

Over 20 different workshops, talks, tastings and displays. This included public and staff events, new blogs and resources. Take a look at their post-week wrap up

Louis Coiffait-Gunn, CEO at CILIP said: "This project is about enabling real, meaningful climate action at the heart of communities. Library services are deeply rooted in place giving them a unique ability to harness local communities, understand wider society and tackle complex challenges.

"Building on the success of the Green Libraries Campaign, this initiative continues to showcase how libraries foster collaboration and inspire action."

Find out more & about the project

Green Libraries Week 2025: Planting Seeds of Change

Libraries across the UK are coming together to celebrate Green Libraries Week 2025, running from 27 October to 2 November. From national and university libraries to local branches on the high street, this year's theme: "Planting Seeds of Change: From small beginnings to a mighty forest" invites everyone to take part in the growing movement for sustainability and community action.

Throughout the week, libraries across all sectors will host a range of green activities, educational workshops, and literacy events designed to inspire communities to think and act sustainably. It is a week-long celebration of the innovative work libraries are doing to support environmental awareness and climate-friendly initiatives in their communities.

Already, hundreds of libraries have signed the Green Libraries Manifesto, pledging to make sustainability central to their services. There is still time to add your events to our interactive map and let people find out what is happening in their community.

Greenspirational highlights

Here are a handful of 'greenspirational' highlights of Green Libraries Week 2025:

• Kirklees Libraries – The Pea Shoot Challenge: Can you grow it, then eat it? Kirklees are offering a free pea seed pack. Participants will learn the difference between peas and pea shoots and get creative by making their very own growing container using recycled materials to grow their harvest.

• Leicester Libraries - Retrofitting and energy advice clinic: An opportunity to meet the city council's energy projects team and learn to use the Homewise Retrofit planner to save energy and find out about eligibility to the new Warm Homes local grant.

• Merton Libraries - Author event - Hergal the Homeless Crab by Chris Allen: Wimbledon Library is hosting a half term children's event featuring Chris Allen, the author of Hergal the Homeless Crab and the Tom's Ice Cream Van series.

Green Libraries Conference 2025

Green Libraries Week 2025 kicks off with the third annual Green Libraries Conference, held at Kings Place in London on 27 October.

Please note that the venue has changed for this event due to unforeseen circumstances. Rest assured that all arrangements remain the same. It will now take place at: Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9AG

This year's programme is packed with inspirational speakers and themes with sessions exploring topics including:

• Sustainable exhibitions and displays
• Climate fiction and climate book clubs
• Green procurement and responsible supply chains
• Writing a sustainability or climate action plan
• AI and sustainability
• Professional Registration and climate justice

We have a limited number of tickets remaining, so early booking is encouraged.

Still time to book your ticket

Join us this autumn as libraries across the UK plant the seeds of change.

CILIP launches £1.2 Million Green Library Hubs project to power climate action in local communities

CILIP, the UK's library and information association, is proud to announce the launch of the Green Library Hubs programme – a groundbreaking, community-led climate action project made possible through £1.2 million in funding from The National Lottery Community Fund's Climate Action Fund – Our Shared Future.

The three-year programme, delivered in partnership with the British Library, Julie's Bicycle and CAG Consulting, along with 10 libraries across the UK, will establish 10 Green Library Hubs – spaces rooted in local libraries that act as catalysts for community awareness, behaviour change and grassroots action on climate change.

Each Green Library Hub will:

• Serve as a community space for environmental learning and events
• Humanise the climate crisis through local relevance and engagement
• Support partnerships with local groups, schools, and climate organisations
• Equip library staff with environmental literacy and community engagement tools

The project is an integral part of the Green Libraries Campaign, and activities delivered through the Green Libraries Hubs will support the campaign as it enables climate action in local communities through a network of coordinated library services.

Louis Coiffait-Gunn, CEO at CILIP said:

"This project is about enabling real, meaningful climate action at the heart of communities. Library services are deeply rooted in place giving them a unique ability to harness local communities, understand wider society and tackle complex challenges.

"Building on the success of the Green Libraries Campaign, this initiative continues to showcase how libraries foster collaboration and inspire action."

The Green Library Hubs programme will be delivered in partnership with:

• The British Library, supporting delivery of community workshops and national reach through its Living Knowledge Network of public libraries
• Julie's Bicycle, leading on environmental and community engagement training for public library staff
• CAG Consultants, responsible for evaluation and impact measurement

CILIP membership is a gateway to a community of professional peers, working across the sectors within the knowledge management, information and library profession. And like any community, it achieves more when those individuals work together and support each other. Here Rob Green speaks to Jamie Finch, Chair of CILIP Cymru Wales about his involvement as a member and a volunteer.

Growing up in Newport, South Wales, Jamie Finch’s first career thoughts centred around the local industry – perhaps following his own father’s path as an engineer at British Steel, or “something in computer science”.

However his A-levels results suggested another option and he decided to study History at Swansea University. He says: “An early 90s recession-hit UK proved a challenging time to get a job, so I pivoted to study a business qualification.

“In 1996, as Pulp’s famous song puts it, ‘something changed’. That July, I put in a single application to Aberystwyth University, was accepted immediately with an EU grant, and began my Library Masters in September. I will be forever European and forever grateful to the European Social Fund for making my career possible. The good ship, Librarianship, seemed a perfect fit for all my talents and interests from art, history, and computing to business.”

Jamie, who is the current Chair of CILIP Cymru Wales, says that the idea of being part of a profession had always appealed to him, and so he was quick to join the CILIP community.

“I’d always wanted an actual career. I’d seen my father’s Professional Engineering magazine arrive on the doorstep every month. That journal was nowhere near as interesting as Information Professional, but I wanted letters after my name too! I joined CILIP as a student member in 1996, chartered as soon as I could in 2001, followed by fellowship in 2019. Like a stick of rock, I have CILIP running through my core.”

That relationship was strengthened in 2015 when Jamie took on a role with CILIP’s international group. He says: “In 2015, I got a new library job with global responsibilities so turned to CILIP for advice. Before I knew it, I was producing the newsletter for CILIP’s International Library and Information Group (ILIG), which marked the beginning of my voluntary work and my passion for global librarianship.”

Development

Jamie’s CILIP membership has run parallel to his career, and it has enabled him to continue his professional development – not just through his decision to pursue professional registration, but also through his choice to become a more active member of CILIP’s network of volunteers.

“For me, the essence of volunteering has been in making close friendships and networks with lots of people that I would not have met otherwise,” explains Jamie. “Apart from the obvious generic skills, like event management or leadership, I’ve learned about mobile libraries, about open access journals, Book Aid’s shipping container community libraries in Africa, and so much more.”

"The good ship, Librarianship, seemed a perfect fit for all my talents and interests from art, history, and computing to business."

"For me, the essence of volunteering has been in making close friendships and networks with lots of people that I would not have met otherwise."

Jamie adds that although he had been often taken advantage of events and training provided through CILIP’s groups, he had not realised how much work went into creating them.

“My earliest memories of attending CILIP events originate in the late 1990s. They include a London evening informal hosted by the late Bob McKee, and my first conference offered by the Career Development Group (CDG) on the hybrid library. CILIP’s Ridgmount Street was also there for certificated training on various subjects, including the then new-fangled Google. These are all, of course, invaluable to members, old and new. But I had no idea of the work that went into them, nor entertained any idea of speaking at them.”

Jamie says that being an active member of these networks has provided “a lot of career highlights have come from my voluntary work and probably would not have happened other wise. I’ve organised a Decolonising Libraries Conference in 2019 with Cardiff Metropolitan University and CILIP ILIG. As former Chair of CILIP ILIG, I’ve been a part of CILIP’s Working Internationally Project, helping judge funding applications and plan its conference. This year, I’ve been part of the CILIP Board and contributed to their next draft strategy, which will replace We Are CILIP.”

Jamie’s involvement with CILIP and its groups has developed over the years and he now sits as the Chair of CILIP Cymru Wales (CCW). Jamie is based in Wales, and he is quick to reveal that his connection to CCW stretches beyond his role as Chair.

He says: “From afar, I had long-admired CCW having attended their conferences in the 2010s. Special mention to Paul Jeorrett, past chair, a particularly humorous and memorable master of ceremonies. Post pandemic, I decided it was high time to join up and give something back to Wales and its libraries. After a stint redesigning their Team of the Year Award with Katrina Hall, Lou Peck handed the baton to me.”

Team effort

As with all of CILIP’s Member Network activity, success comes from a team effort and collaboration. Jamie says of his own involvement: “The role of Chair takes up several hours a week and involves being CCW’s lead officer. I work closely with the Community Development Manager (CDM) for Wales; last year, Sioned Jacques and now Sue Polchow. Sue and Sioned have helped me understand CILIP campaigns and how to adapt and amplify those for Wales.

“I have overall responsibility for our business plan, coordination of activities in its delivery, and financial position. Our mission is to increase CILIP membership and workforce development through training which includes support for professional registration. And to be the voice of the profession. A jewel in the crown of CCW is its Kathleen Cooks Fund, a legacy gift which lets us support training, collections and content creation costs for CILIP members in Wales.”

Commitment

Each of the roles that are available through CILIP’s networks will require different skills and different levels of commitment. It’s worth remembering that there are plenty of opportunities to get involved before taking on a formal role. The first step is to join some CILIP Groups and Networks, if you are not already a member, and look for events, training and activities that you can attend.

Start to build up your network within the group, and think about what opportunities would match your interests, what you can offer and what skills you want to learn and develop.

Jamie says that the best advice he could give is to put aside any worries you may have, and seek out opportunities that meet your needs. He says: “I would say just do it. Get involved. Put aside any imposter syndrome feelings. Our library communities, events, even CILIP itself, depends on volunteers. We must keep the flame of libraries alive for the next generation. That’s what matters. Go along to a committee meeting, test the water and see if you like them.”

Join

All CILIP’s Member Networks and Special Interest Groups are free to join for members. They provide a range of sector-focused activities, training and events, as well as a community network for you to join. Groups are open to all CILIP members, no matter what area of the profession you work in and can provide insights into different sectors for anyone considering exploring new career opportunities.

Find out more about CILIP’s Member Networks and Special Interest Groups here.

All volunteering opportunities are advertised on CILIP’s Information Professional Jobs website.

Becoming an active member of one of CILIP’s committees and groups can be a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills and knowledge. Volunteers and the groups that they support help to enrich the ¬experience of all our members by delivering a rich programme of events and training, create strong networks that explore the many facets of profession. Here Lynsey Hawker explains how she became ¬involved with ¬CILIP’s Health Libraries Group and what she has learned along the way.

My name is Lynsey Hawker and I have worked in health ¬libraries for nearly 20 years now. Over the years I have worked for a trade union library, in an academic library and the NHS. I am currently a librarian at The King’s Fund. The King’s Fund is an independent health charity that focuses on health policy, it works to improve health and care in England.

I joined CILIP early on in my career while working as a ¬library assistant. At the time it was a way to meet like minded professionals, to learn more about the profession and to ¬access training and events to improve my skills and knowledge.

I have been Co-Chair of the Health Libraries Group since 2020 but have been a member of the group for many years. I first became aware of the group through our flagship conferences which take place every two years. These are a brilliant way to learn more about what is happening in the sector, to meet other health librarians and share ideas.

It was also at one of these conferences where I first got experience of presenting to a large audience, nerve wracking but an invaluable experience! I also found the access to free training and events an excellent way to boost my own CPD. So much so that when the opportunity arose, I applied to become CPD lead for the group – planning and facilitating training and events. Having done this for five years I went on to my current position of Co-Chair.

I have met and worked and learned from so many talented and dedicated people over the years and for me this contact with a network of colleagues is the stand out advantage to being a member of a group like HLG.

In my current role as Co-Chair of HLG I work with my colleague Lesley to oversee the work of our committee. We meet quarterly and we chair/facilitate this meeting and help ¬coordinate the various activities the committee is involved in. We are lucky to have a number of dedicated volunteers that enable us to run an active CPD programme, a quarterly newsletter, our own academic journal and of course our ¬biannual conferences.

We have a policy lead to ensure we are in a position to advocate for our sector, and we are also responsible for producing core collection lists in partnership with ¬Wiley and co-own the Health and Library Services Directory with NHS England. All these activities rely on the time and ¬enthusiasm given by volunteers. The time I spend on HLG activities varies depending on what is going on but on average is probably one to two hours a week. This can be fitted in around my day job, but can sometimes require dedicating some spare time too.

Highlights

The opportunity to meet and learn from a range of people from all over the UK that I might not have met otherwise.

"Working with a range of people outside of your immediate role really makes you feel like you are part of a community..."

Being a volunteer for CILIP HLG has provided me with an opportunity to develop leadership and management skills that are directly relevant to my day job. I work and communicate with people are all levels, chair meetings, help organise events, set budgets and present at conferences all things that have helped me have more confidence in my own role. At the same time attending HLG events helps raise the profile of our organisation and the work we do.

Give it a go! Working with a range of people outside of your immediate role really makes you feel like you are part of a community, it is a great way to develop your own professional skills but also to advocate for and shape the future of our profession.

Join

All CILIP’s Member Networks and Special Interest Groups are free to join for members. They provide a range of sector-focused activities, training and events, as well as a community network for you to join. Groups are open to all CILIP members, no matter what area of the profession you work in and can provide insights into different sectors for anyone considering exploring new career opportunities.

Find out more about CILIP’s Member Networks and Special Interest Groups here.

All volunteering opportunities are advertised on CILIP’s Information Professional Jobs website.