The CILIP Robinson Award for innovation in library administration by para-professional staff
The Robinson Award is awarded for excellence and innovation in library administration. It is specifically aimed at attracting submissions from people working at para-professional level in the library and information field. You can enter yourself or nominate a colleague.
The Robinson Award is one of the ways that CILIP recognises the contribution of, and promotes the value of, para-professional staff. It is administered by CILIP and its Affiliated Member's national committee.
The Affiliated Members National Committee is made up of Members from all over the UK. They produce a regular newsletter called Frontline which carries reports of previous conferences, training days and items submitted by Members.
Who can enter / be nominated
Individuals or teams who are working in the library and information sector in the UK and who are not eligible to be Chartered Members of CILIP. Applicants need not be Members of CILIP. The Award is made for a project or piece of work carried out in the last three years.
How to enter / nominate
Entries for the award have now closed.
The entry must be supported by two referees, including the line manager of the applicant / nominee. One of the referees must be a Chartered Library and Information Professional.
In addition, the following information should be supplied, in an A4 folder or portfolio:
- A description of the employing library and information service.
- A description of the project or piece of work carried out, including an outline of how the previous system worked and what improvements were made.
- Evidence of how the project or piece of work has improved the service.
- A description of any future plans or developments resulting from the work.
- Supporting material - e.g. publications, electronic disks, videos, URLs, press cuttings or endorsements.
What the judges' are looking for ...
- Innovation and evidence of original thinking
- Practical application
- Adaptability
- Cost effectiveness and value for money
- A well presented submission and supporting evidence
The Award is open to all areas of library administration. Recent examples include:
- The development of services for distance learners
- The writing and production of a training manual
- Planning of a new library layout