CILIP launches new BAME network for library professionals

CILIP is launching a network for BAME professionals within the library sector, led by CILIP trustee Shirley Yearwood-Jackman.

The BAME Network is free to join and open to both existing CILIP members and non-members. CILIP said the launch of the Network will “help to address the under-representation of people of colour within the library and information workforce” as identified in workforce mapping data from 2015.

The organisation has six goals for the network, including providing training and mentorship opportunities, and creating a safe space where professionals can support each other professionally. It also wants its members to contribute to CILIP’s planning and policies.

Chair of the BAME Network steering group Yearwood-Jackman said: “The launch of the CILIP BAME Network represents exciting times for BAME library, knowledge and information professionals and for the profession as a whole. The Network provides six key goals that all library, knowledge and information professionals can support in order to address the under-representation of BAME colleagues in the workforce, support their advancement and develop diverse library, knowledge and information services. We look forward to working with individuals and organisations alike.”

CILIP c.e.o. Nick Poole added: “I am extremely proud to be working with Shirley and the steering group on the launch of this new network. Initiatives like Diversity in Libraries of the North and the new CILIP BAME Network are a vital part of addressing the under-representation of people of colour in our profession. We very much hope that the network will be a driving force in encouraging new BAME people into the sector, creating new opportunities and highlighting to employers the need to fully support the development and promotion of BAME professionals. I would like to personally thank Shirley and the team for working with us to create this new network. CILIP firmly believes that the BAME Network should be run by and for BAME professionals and without their hard work and commitment this would not have been possible.”