Training and development (knowledge and library services)

This page has information on the training and development opportunities available for the knowledge and library services workforce. 

As with any profession, you will need to continuously develop your knowledge, skills, attitude, behaviours, and values to progress your career. 

Staff giving presentation

Courses in this subject are offered by some universities at Master's level and are usually accredited by CILIP, the Library and Information Association. A full list of accredited courses is available on the CILIP website.

CILIP provides a professional registration framework for members working in knowledge and library services. Professional registration demonstrates your abilities, knowledge and experience, and is recognised by employers in all sectors and internationally. There are three levels to suit every stage of your career: certification, chartership and fellowship.

Health Libraries Group (HLG) is a specialist interest group of CILIP. It runs development events including a bi-annual conference, and publishes a newsletter and journal. The group offers a number of grants and bursaries to support members' continuing professional development.

Health Education England (HEE) provides a training and development programme for staff working at all levels in NHS knowledge and library services. Opportunities include virtual training sessions and face-to-face events. A wide range of subjects is covered each year and these courses are free to access for NHS knowledge and library service staff.

In some regions of England there are local library networks which all staff working in that region belong to. These networks provide training events and ongoing support for members. If you work for a knowledge or library service that is a member of one of these networks, you will automatically have access to the resources and events they provide.

Your employing organisation is a further source of training and development with discussion about training and development opportunities forming a key part of your personal development plan (PDP).

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