What is the difference between CILIP and a trade union?
CILIP is a personal membership organisation. We support our Members in terms of qualifications, careers, professional practice, information, advice and continuing professional development.
The main service a union provides for its members is negotiation and representation. The purpose of a trade union is to protect and improve pay and conditions of employment, and to offer legal representation if their members have a problem at work.
It is advisable to be a member of a trade union as well as a member of CILIP. However, some employers do not encourage trade union membership.
Academic
UCU - the University and College Union, formed by the amalgamation of the AUT - the Association of University Teachers and NATFHE - the National Association of Teachers in Further and Higher Education
Charities and Special libraries
Unite - The largest union they have an Administration, Professional, Managerial and Supervisory sector. Formed by the merger of Amicus and the GMB.
Government
FDA - the union for senior civil servants
Prospect - the union for engineering, scientific, management and professional staff
Public
Unison - UNISON represent the majority of the 27,000 of library staff employed as librarians, library assistants and managers in all library authorities in England, Scotland and Wales. To find out about joining UNISON call UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845. Alternatively, log inot their website
Schools
Unison - the public service union
Librarians who are also teachers join some of the teaching unions such as:
NASUWT - the National Association of Schoolmasters / Union of Women Teachers
ATL - the Association of Teachers and Lecturers
The trade union you should join is the one that is recognised by your employer.