LIBEX acts as a clearinghouse for CILIP Members* and library and information staff in other countries who are interested in arranging a job exchange between a UK based post and a non-UK based post. The service is free of charge.
Application form
Please complete the application form. A UK based jobholder must be a CILIP member and should provide their membership number. Non-UK based jobholders do not need to be CILIP members.
We will contact you by email once your application has been approved.
Criteria
The scheme is open to either:
- CILIP members who wish to exchange jobs with someone outside the UK (you may list more than one country)
or:
- LIS workers from any non-UK country who wish to exchange jobs with someone in the UK (and only the UK).
This is a CILIP member based scheme. As such, it is not intended to facilitate exchanges which do not include a UK-based potential partner.
LIBEX database
You can access the LIBEX database once your application has been approved.
Please make sure that your database entry is completed as this will ensure that others searching LIBEX will have full information about the exchange you are offering. You can add any supplementary information you want to include in your entry by completing the Public member profile.
*CILIP Overseas members are still eligible to apply.
LIBEX does not arrange exchanges itself, this is done directly by the applicants. Experience has shown that this approach generally works to best advantage for most participants. CILIP's role is to host the LIBEX database, support, develop and promote the scheme for the benefit of CILIP members.
CILIP administers the LIBEX scheme on behalf of its members – to provide opportunities for them to work overseas.
We cannot enter into communication with non-members of CILIP who are registered or planning to register for the scheme.
CILIP members will naturally receive full support from their professional body, when contacting LIBEX and quoting their membership number.
Please address all enquiries about existing and future applications to LIBEX at CILIP (libex@cilip.org.uk).
Guidance notes to Type of Post are provided as an appendix to the LIBEX database: 1. Senior Librarian/Head of Service; 2. Senior/Managerial; 3. Professional Librarian; 4. Operational/Support Staff.
Some of the potential benefits of library work exchanges to exchange participants, employers and line managers are summarised.
Direct links to key information you may need.
Indiviuals who have already made an exchange are often a useful source of advice and guidance. Take a look at the exchange reports to see some examples.
A list of pointers and tips which may be helpful to you when considering an international exchange