For the first time the 2020 CILIP Ireland Open Day and AGM was held online, taking place on Thursday 3rd December. This virtual event, which was kindly sponsored by Innovative, was held amid ongoing public health restrictions and provided a timely opportunity for the local professional community to connect and reflect on what has undoubtedly been a challenging year both personally and professionally.

Events began with Alex McIlroy, Chair of CILIP Ireland, formally opening the AGM. She gave an overview of CILIP Ireland’s activities in 2020 and reflected on some highlights from the past year which included our celebration of local libraries during Libraries Week. Despite operating during lockdown and with ongoing government restrictions, CILIP Ireland has continued to work for the benefit of all our members by utilising online technologies. You can read more about our activities over the past year in our Annual Report here.

Four CILIP Ireland roles were up for election. Julie Reid and Cynthia Banfield were successfully selected for the roles of Secretary and Professional Registration Support Officer (PRSO) respectively. Congratulations to both! The roles of Social Media Officer and North-South Liaison Officer remain vacant. Both roles provide a unique opportunity for a CILIP Ireland member to enhance their C.V. by developing their professional skills and experience outside of their current job role. If you are interested in learning more about either role please contact the Relationship Manager Gerardine Blee (gerardine.blee@cilip.org.uk) for an informal chat.

With the formalities of the AGM concluded attendees enjoyed a short break and a quick cup of tea. Unfortunately this year lunch was not provided but attendees still enjoyed an informal and very welcome chat from their kitchen tables.

The Open Day masterclass has become a firm favourite on the CILIP Ireland events calendar and this year was no exception. Jo Walley delivered an extremely engaging and lively workshop full of practical advice to build personal resilience. Coming at the end of a difficult year the workshop was a timely opportunity for attendees to reflect on the past year and on how much they have accomplished whilst learning how to protect their wellbeing as we continue in a time of uncertainty.

We wish to thank Jo and all those who attended and we look forward to continuing to work for all our members in 2021!