Information officer : Training

Chartered membership is the professional award made by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) . Most members gain Chartership two to three years after graduation. Applicants must:

• hold a CILIP-accredited library and information degree or postgraduate qualification, or CILIP Certification (ACLIP) or a non-accredited degree level qualification and substantial professional experience;
• have completed the appropriate period of professional experience and provide evidence of participation in a mentor scheme;
• have had membership of CILIP for a year.

Chartered membership of CILIP entitles the holder to use the letters MCLIP. It is considered the ‘gold standard’ for information professionals and is recognised throughout the world.

Short courses, conferences and seminars across a wide range of topics are also offered by professional bodies such as CILIP, as well as by some training consultants and employers. Many employers also provide or arrange for training in the use of specialist databases, IT systems and resources used in the workplace.

Masters degrees for mid-career professionals are available on a full or part-time basis, or by distance learning. Research degrees are also offered by university library and information studies departments.