Even though CILIP's Groups comprehensively cover its Members' interests, the opportunities for specialist professional activities go still further.

Other organisations have formal links with CILIP as well, under the Organisations in Liaison (OiL) scheme. The scheme offers two-way communication and, where appropriate, mutual support with organisations that are concerned in some way with promotion of objectives similar to those of CILIP.

There are over 20 OiLs including several for minority groups, as well as others covering topics as diverse as the arts, construction, consumer health, music, maps and much more. Although independent of CILIP in their policy and administration, OiLs receive a number of benefits similar to those enjoyed by Branches and Groups, including discounts on a range of CILIP services, and they can also qualify for grant aid in certain circumstances.

Organisations in Liaison