What is the CILIP LGBTQ+ Network and who can be a member?

The LGBTQ+ Network is one of four proposed CILIP networks known collectively as “Diversity Networks”. Full details about the LGBTQ+ Network’s purpose, scope, goals, etc. are available here.

Membership of the LGBTQ+ Network is open to all library, knowledge and information workers who identify as LGBTQ+. Individuals do not need to be a CILIP member in order to join the Network but you must be a CILIP member if you wish to stand for Chair, Secretary or Treasurer.

What is the CILIP LGBTQ+ Committee and what does it do?

Essentially, the Committee manages CILIP’s LGBTQ+ Network by ensuring delivery on this Diversity Network’s purpose and goals, within available resources, such as:

• Ensuring effective governance and management including finance
• Developing and implementing a three-year business plan supporting CILIP’s Changing Lives, and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion aims and objectives, and producing an annual report
• Recruiting, engaging with and working to empower LGBTQ+ Network members
• Organising the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and other member meetings
• Ensuring up-to-date information about the Network is available on the CILIP website
• Producing regular communications (via newsletter, e-bulletin, web, social media, Information Professional journal)
• Delivering a programme of training and events
• Liaising and collaborating with CILIP, CILIPS, CILIP Ireland, CILIP Regional Member Networks, Special Interest Groups and the other Diversity Networks
• Linking and collaborating with others on shared projects e.g. The British Library, UK Web Archive, etc.
• Contributing to policy development where appropriate.

When are the elections taking place? What’s the election timetable?

What Committee roles are there?

The Committee must have a Chair, Secretary and Treasurer in order to run. Ideally, there should also be between 6 and 17 Committee Members, which are flexible roles so long as the following areas are covered e.g. communications, web design, social media, training, etc. 

Job-sharing is encouraged as a developmental opportunity, and improves diversity and the breadth of experience in the Committee. Job-sharing roles may be possible depending on both individuals of course.

A Vice Chair may be appointed by the Committee if they deem it necessary. Likewise, they can decide to co-opt into vacancies if they so wish.

What skills and experience do I need? How will I benefit from being on the Committee?

Given the Committee’s and Network’s aims and remit, there will be lots of opportunities and scope to use and/or develop your skills, knowledge and experience in areas such as: communications, web and social media, networking, engaging others, recruitment, designing and running online events, training, research, campaigning, policy, advocacy, presentation skills, etc.

No doubt you will be part of a committed, enthusiastic, fun team, and learn to liaise and work collaboratively and in partnership with a wider range of organisations, activists, etc. As an elected representative you will be championing LGBTQ+ equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring LGBTQ+ voices are heard and LGBTQ+ members are visible, engaged and active.

How long am I expected to be on the Committee?

Committee Officers and Members are elected and appointed for a period of two years. They may be re-appointed but for no longer than a period of three consecutive terms. A gap in service of at least one year is required before that member can serve again on the committee.

How many Committee meetings will there be and how will they work?

The Committee may meet as many times as they deem necessary to carry out business, and adjourn or otherwise regulate their meetings as they think fit. Meetings may occasionally be held in person but will more likely be held via suitable electronic means.

Am I eligible to nominate and vote?

Yes, if you are a CILIP LGBTQ+ Network Member and a CILIP Member you can nominate (yourself) and vote for any Committee position (including Chair, Secretary and Treasurer).

If you are a LGBTQ+ Network Member only, then you can only nominate yourself as a Committee Member (excluding Chair, Secretary or Treasurer), but you can vote on all Committee positions.

To comply with GDPR, it is necessary for you to opt in to having your email address entered into SurveyMonkey before we can send you a link to the online poll. To opt in please complete this form by 23rd October.

Can I self-nominate?

If you are a CILIP LGBTQ+ Network Member and CILIP member, you can self-nominate to any number of the Committee roles.

If you are a CILIP LGBTQ+ Network Member only, you can self-nominate as a Committee Member only.

How do I nominate?

Via the nominations form. Nominations must be submitted between Monday 5 October and 5 p.m. on Friday 16 October 2020.

How do I vote?

Via the voting form. The link to the form will be added here. Voting opens on Monday 26 October to 5 p.m. on Friday 6 November 2020.

Where can I find more information about the elections?

Email: cilip.lgbtqnetwork@cilip.org.uk
Twitter: @ciliplgbtq