British Library and Information Association: Its origin and modern state

Abstract

The author examines the transformations of the Library Association of the United Kingdom (UK), founded in 1877, its role in shaping library education. She discusses the main activities of British Library and Information Association, known as the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP, as seen on the www-site www.cilip.org.uk). The essence of the Royal Charter given to the organization is described. The article focuses on the role of CILIP in accrediting LIS degree programs and listing job vacancies for library and information professionals. CILIP’s Strategic plan 2016-2020 is also described. The Strategic Plan sets four tasks: 1. To promote library and information skills and professional ethics; 2. To develop the resource of managers in library and information and knowledge industry; 3. To increase productivity of CILIP members; 4. To invest in innovations, standards and the profession improvement. The elements of the business strategy are named. The author emphasizes that the Plan is intended for the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals to go as a modern, progressive, and efficient professional organization to protect, unite and support those professionals working in the sphere of libraries, information and knowledge.