16 November 2022

CILIP has launched Digital Leadership for Libraries, five open-access, online learning modules created for CILIP members and public library workers, volunteers and apprentices.

The modules are intended to create engagement with the principles and values of being a digital leader in the public libraries, unlocking the potential for all public library workers, and their services, to be confident digital leaders.

There are five modules in the programme, some of which are drawn from CILIP’s Professional Knowledge and Skills Base (PKSB), our online tool that maps information professionals’ knowledge and skills.

• Digital Leadership
• Digital Creativity
• Data Stewardship
• Digital Impact
• Digital Marketing

The programme has been designed as a set of short, interactive and practical modules with some case studies to help library staff understand how to apply this learning in the workplace. By the end of the course the library worker will understand the value and impact of what being a digital leader is and have a digital leader’s mindset.

Digital Leadership for Libraries is the result of close collaboration between CILIP and Libraries Connected, funded by Arts Council England. It is part of the implementation of the Public Library Workforce and Skills Strategy (previously, the Public Library Skills Strategy) that focuses on key areas of skills needed for new and existing public library staff. It sits alongside LibraryOn, the British Library’s new single digital presence project, and complements the digital skills resources provided by Libraries Connected in their programme, Learning Pool.

CILIP Chief Development Officer, Jo Cornish said:

“With thanks to generous funding from Arts Council England, we are delighted to have this opportunity to create this resource for the library sector. Being a digital leader is about mind-set and being inspired by the “art of the possible”. These modules will allow us to connect the workforce with the right knowledge, tools and confidence to be digital leaders. We are certain that this will equip them with the skills to empower their communities and enrich their services for today and the future.”

Head of Public Libraries and Community Engagement at the British Library commented, Liz White commented:

“We are delighted to see the launch of these new digital leadership modules, which will play a key role in supporting the implementation of LibraryOn (Single Digital Presence). Thanks and congratulations to everyone involved in their development.”

Sign up to the course, or to find out more, click here now.