Shadowing Network

HLG is a special interest group of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP). We are a UK-based network of individuals working in or professionally interested in health and social care.

As part of HLG’s continuing professional development offer, we have created a shadowing network that facilitates people interested in learning about different health and social care sectors, workplaces, or job roles to visit and shadow fellow professionals.

Where can I find libraries participating in this scheme?

You can find the full list of participating libraries at https://hlisd.org/networks/shadowing-network

What does joining the Shadowing Network mean for my library service?

By joining the network, you are indicating that you are happy to provide continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities to support existing and aspiring library and knowledge professionals within the health and care sector. This can include any of the following types of opportunities:

Library tours or visits (in-person or virtual)
Job shadowing
Work experience or placements

There is further information on the Shadowing Network webpages.

How can my library service get involved in the Shadowing Network?

If you’re a library interested in hosting a visitor, simply add the Shadowing Network to your library networks on HLISD so other libraries and individuals know they can contact you for more information. If you haven’t already, you might want to add individual contacts to your library too. You can edit your library entry by logging in to the admin page. (Your library will have a local editor with the login details or see our FAQ pages for help)

How can my library service provide a good shadowing experience?

You will need to carefully consider whether you can accommodate a shadowing request and what form the shadowing will take. Our best practice guidance for shadowing hosts provides a range of factors to consider to ensure a good shadowing experience.

How do I use the Shadowing Network for my own CPD?

Before arranging a visit, reflect upon your CPD requirements, workplace guidance, and practical considerations, such as travelling distance and costs. Ensure that you provide a potential host with enough detail for them to make an informed choice about your visit. Use our guidance for shadowers to inform these decisions. After that, simply use a host’s contact details to introduce yourself and what you hope to achieve from a shadowing experience and arrange a visit!