Caroline Moss-Gibbons: A knowlegeable and well-trained workforce is vital'

It is a core part of CILIP's mission to set high standards in library and information services for the public benefit. This is achieved through advocacy on behalf of the library and information community, and developing and supporting a knowledgeable and well-trained workforce.

Speaking out for the users of public library services has been an important campaign for CILIP in 2008. We have commented on library behaviour guidelines and the negative impact on young readers of the proposed age-banding of children's books by publishers. And CILIP has also published the Conway report which was critical of library service levels in some local authorities.

From the start, our organisation has been involved in the Department of Culture, Media and Sport review of standards in public library services and the All Party Parliamentary Group review of leadership in public library services.

CILIP not only speaks out on behalf of the library and information community, it also provides support to over 21,000 members throughout their professional lives.

CILIP helps members stay knowledgeable and up-to-date through training, publications, journals and internationally recognised qualifications. We also provide the opportunity for members to share knowledge and best practice through events, conferences and online networking. A knowledgeable and well-trained workforce is vital in delivering high quality library and information services, high quality services that everyone deserves.

To all of us who are members of CILIP it really matters that our organisation is devoted to setting higher standards in library and information provision throughout the UK for the public benefit, acting as a spur, and a conscience, for those responsible for providing those services.

We look forward to even more successes in the near future.