Career Zone
Career ZoneCareer Research and PlanningEmployment sectorsInformation, patent and library work

Information, patent and library work

Information management roles focus on organising, facilitating access and retrieval of information in archives and libraries. Intellectual property roles such as patent and trademark work focus on safeguarding proprietary usage of intellectual property - any creative work that can be deemed to be an asset or physical property. Intellectual property rights encompass protection of the following forms of intellectual property: copyrights (e.g. authorship of a book or film), trademarks (e.g. a slogan), designs (e.g. a logo), patents (e.g. process or a product) and trade secrets (e.g. secret formula or recipe). Common to both careers of information knowledge management and intellectual property is a necessity for high levels of research skills, meticulous attention to detail, an investigative mindset, analytical problem solving, and a competency in customer service. IP roles will demand an ability to interpret a highly complex technical STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) information. 

Sector overview and areas of work

The information, patent, and library sector encompass a diverse range of roles that involve managing, organising, and disseminating information which underpins supporting research, innovation, and education.  

Intellectual property work encompasses the following occupations: IP analyst, IP lawyers, trademark attorney, patent examiners. These occupations are lawyers who are specifically qualified to advise on intellectual property law and are subject to regulation by the Intellectual Property Regulation Board (IPReg). The exception being IP analysts who can be seen as business development managers who seek to research patents to identify opportunities for protecting and commercialising inventions. Eighty percent of patent lawyers are found in private practice; the other twenty percent are in the public sector and in-house divisions of industrial companies. The Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys states there are over 4,600 practicing IP lawyers working in the UK. 

Libraries, archives and sites of records keeping are predominantly found in the public sector, in places of learning such as schools/colleges and universities, they also can be found in commercial spaces, industry, professional bodies and sites of governance. There are approximately over three and half thousand public libraries, approximately one hundred and fifty record offices and approximately several hundred archives. The main difference between archives and libraries is the type of content they house. Archives typically contain unique and rare public records or historical materials, sometimes requiring professionals to develop practical skills of conservation, whereas libraries contain various reading and study materials. In this domain we find the following occupations: librarians (academic and public), library clerks/assistants, archivists, archive conservators, information manager, and records managers. 

The information, patent and library sector of the UK labour market is comparatively small. LMI for all predicts for librarians, the workforce is projected to grow by 2.4% over the period to 2027, creating 800 jobs. In the same period, 54.3% of the workforce is projected to retire, creating 17,600 job openings. Similarly, LMI for all analyses archivists and curators (data is published as a conflation of two roles), as a workforce which is projected to grow by 2.4% over the period to 2027, creating 400 jobs. In the same period, 54.3% of the workforce is projected to retire, creating 9,100 job openings. LMI for all is unable to provide forecast data for IP lawyers. 

Office for National Statistics analysis predicts 26.73% of librarian jobs are at risk of automation which compares with 24.31% of legal professionals (exact data for IP professionals is not available) jobs at risk of automation. See ONS. Artificial intelligence tools will have widespread use in patent searching, with projected automation of some elements of patent examination and prosecution, but as drafting is tethered to the interview process with inventors it is forecast that patent professions will be somewhat insulated from job losses through automation. There is forecast strong demand for IP lawyers in specialisms of biotechnology, bioinformatics and generative AI.  

The CILP in its most recent analysis of 2021, published a few years ago, assessed the impact of artificial intelligence in a research report “The impact of AI, machine learning, automation and robotics on the information profession” which forecasted significant impact on roles within information management, predicting routine tasks such as indexing, classification, signposting, provision of triage information becoming automated with use of AI chatbots such as LAMA and LibraryAnn, and the application of robotics in accessing physical information assets, will impact on numbers of library technicians and clerical library assistants, but the report predicts growing opportunities in more complex roles associated with data stewardship and a reconfiguration of existing roles with the increase intake of information at disposal; the total volume of data being created, managed and shared globally is predicted to increase tenfold between 2016 and 2030 (from 16Zb in 2016 to 162Zb in 2030). The CILP at present is unable to quantify the impact of AI in information management but forecasts change in work and roles. 

Areas of Work in Information, patent and library work 

An outline of core areas of work within this sector include: 

Library Work 

  • Collection Management: acquiring, organising, and maintaining collections of books, journals, and other materials. 
  • Reference Services: assisting users in finding information through research, database searches, and interlibrary loan. 
  • User Services: providing guidance on library resources, services, and technology. 
  • Programming and Outreach: planning and implementing programs, workshops, and events to promote library use and literacy. 

Patent Work 

Patent lawyers work in two main areas. The first of which being licensing bodies connected to governmental bodies of the UK Intellectual Property Office and the European Patent Office. The second domain is private or industry practice as interfaces between inventors and licensing bodies. 

  • Patent Application Preparation: drafting and filing patent applications. 
  • Patent Searching: conducting searches to determine the novelty and originality of inventions. 
  • Patent Portfolio Management: advising clients on patent strategies and managing their patent portfolios. 
  • Patent Litigation: representing clients in patent infringement and validity disputes. 

Information Work 

  • Information Analysis: collecting, analysing, and interpreting information from various sources. 
  • Knowledge Management: developing and implementing systems for organising, storing, and retrieving information. 
  • Information Retrieval: designing and implementing search engines and databases. 
  • Data Science and Analytics: using data to identify trends, patterns, and insights. 

Sector careers advice 

For more insight into this sector and further overviews of the main areas of work in information, patent and library work, visit the sites below: 

For sector statistics, please visit the Legal Services industry page on My Career Zone Digital which contains some data on intellectual property, and the CILP Insights and news page for information about the status of libraries and archives. 

Sector news and insights 

If you want to research this sector further, the following web pages may be helpful.  

Career Zone and University of Exeter resources 

External resources 

Intellectual Property 

Information Management (Libraries, Archives, Records) 

Information and links from professional bodies 

If you have studied for a related degree, check if your course is accredited by one of the professional bodies such as he Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals. Being a member of a professional body is voluntary. However, it can be valuable for developing networks, continuing your professional development, and generally keeping up with what's happening in the sector. You don’t need to be a member to access lots of helpful information. 

Intellectual Property 

Information Management (libraries, archives and records) 

Making contacts  

Making contacts is particularly essential for success in this sector. Many jobs in this field come through initial volunteering, networking and speculative applications. You could start by speaking with the experts – find out what they did after graduation and contact them for advice using the Career Mentor Scheme or Ask An Alum.  

Find out if any Exeter alumni are working in this sector that you can get in touch with to gain insights and learn more with the LinkedIn Alumni tool.  

Start networking to build contacts. Attend events, comment on blogs and follow professionals on LinkedIn. Attend a skills session to develop your networking skills and knowledge.  

Events  

Recruitment fairs, conventions, open days, talks, and social events give insights and opportunities to make contacts. Make the most of the opportunity to meet with employers and experienced sector professionals to learn about job opportunities and industry knowledge and to get inspiration for pathways to pursue. Some events to consider predominantly within the UK and some abroad to connect with professionals such as at: the CILPS annual conference, the International Conference on Digital Preservation; in IP events such as the CITMA annual conference and the British Invention Show. 

Keep up to date with and register to attend upcoming events on Handshake. If you have not activated your account, select the Single Sign On (SSO) option and follow the instructions onscreen. 

Job roles

Explore roles in the sector by visiting the job profiles below. Each profile covers typical duties and responsibilities, entry requirements and the key skills required for the position. 

Information Management 

Librarianship 

  • Academic Librarian: provides access to information and resources in libraries attached to research institutes, universities. 
  • Public Librarian: helps public access information within local community libraries. Similar to “school librarian”.  
  • Archivist: Preserves and provides access to historical records and materials. 

IP & Patent Work 

  • Patent Attorney: provides legal advice and representation on patent matters. 
  • Patent Examiner: uses scientific, technical and legal skills to assess applications for patents.
  • Patent Paralegal: assists patent attorneys and agents with administrative and legal tasks. For more information about the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys introductory patent paralegal course click here. 
  • Trade Mark Attorney: advise clients on how to protect and enforce their trade mark rights. 

Sector-specific vacancies can be found and researched through the links below.  Remember to filter job searches with key words such as the occupational roles listed above. Remember to search specific job sections of target employers, setting up email bulletins to receive updates of opportunities. If you are undertaking general research and do not have yet a preference on specific jobs, keep the search open and allow yourself to be inspired.  

Information Management 

Intellectual Property 

Skills employers look for: 

Employers in the retail sector often look for a blend of both soft, hard technical skills and specific sub sector specific knowledge. 

Technical Skills 

  • Digital literacy: proficiency in using various digital tools and technologies. 
  • Research skills: ability to conduct thorough and effective research. 
  • Database management: knowledge of database systems and data management techniques. 
  • Programming skills: proficiency in programming languages relevant to the field (e.g., Python, SQL). 

Soft Skills 

  • Communication skills: effective verbal and written communication abilities. 
  • Problem-solving skills: ability to identify and solve complex problems. 
  • Critical thinking skills: ability to analyse information and make informed decisions. 
  • Interpersonal skills: ability to work effectively with colleagues and clients. 
  • Attention to detail: ability to be meticulous and accurate in work. 

Domain-specific skills 

  • Intellectual property law: understanding of patent law, copyright law, and trademark law. 
  • Library science: knowledge of library theory, practices, and standards. 
  • Information management: understanding of information management principles and techniques. 
  • Data analysis: ability to analyse and interpret data using various tools and techniques. 

Work experience and placements

You can develop the skills required to work in these roles and sectors, in and alongside your degree, using online platforms, social media, and discussion groups on LinkedIn. Engage with relevant discussion forums. Recruiters will be looking for evidence of your interest in the sector. 

Getting a graduate role is competitive. Gaining relevant experience in the workplace will not only make your applications stand out but will also allow you to develop new skills and gain valuable insight into the sector. 

University of Exeter Employability Schemes  

These employability schemes can help you find or enhance your work experience and build valuable network connections. 

  • Ask an Alum: A fuss-free way to connect with University of Exeter alumni to ask career questions.   
  • Career Mentor Scheme: A popular employability scheme which matches a student or graduate with an experienced professional for sector insight and one-to-one career advice and guidance over a 6-month period.  
  • Career Zone Internship schemes: Internships can be beneficial, allowing you to gain experience so try to get relevant vacation work or placements. 

Finding part-time work  

Many students work part-time during their studies. Part-time student jobs are often found in the hospitality or retail sectors, where you can gain transferrable interpersonal, customer-service communication and teamwork skills. Public libraries and academic libraries may seek to recruit part-time staff. 

Search for part-time work here: 

  • Handshake (filter ‘part time’ and by your location). 
  • General job sites such as LinkedIn jobs, Find a Job or Indeed (filter on “part-time” and “Exeter”). 
  • Identify and call local businesses in your local area with your CV to ask about part-time jobs. 

In-person Work Experience 

Libraries and archives 

  • Start close to home with the University of Exeter Library. Speak to professionals in this area to explore options for work experience. Approach local municipal libraries & archives which belong to your local county council; listings in Devon and Cornwall. 

Intellectual Property 

Securing work experience in intellectual property can be challenging due to the classified nature of work and the relatively small number of practitioners working in this field. Some patent firms offer vacation schemes which can found on platforms such as IPCareers. Attendance of trade association inventor fairs can offer a great way to meet patent attorneys. Listings of trade fairs can be found on platforms such as International Federation of Inventors’ Association list of events. 

Virtual Work Experience 

Work experiences in libraries, archives and record offices typically tend to be physical in-person scenarios.  As aforementioned, due to the highly classified nature of IP work securing work experience can challenging. Some virtual work experience schemes exist on platforms such as such as Forage, Coursera or Future Learn.  

Virtual work experience from other sectors may lend valuable transferable skills that could leverage subsequent opportunities in retail. 

  • Forage provides short virtual internships in a range of sectors, with opportunities to connect with employers. 
  • The Bright Network provides virtual internships in various sectors and fast-track opportunities for graduate programmes and internships for virtual-intern alumni. Look out for the Bright Network annual June internship week. 

Speculative applications (finding and approaching companies for opportunities) 

As jobs are not always advertised, developing your networking skills and applying speculatively can be useful.  This means approaching organisations directly for an opportunity.  

  • Research and make a shortlist of organisations you would like to gain experience with. 
  • Identify what roles people hold in the organisation.  Are there any exciting campaigns or projects running or coming up that you’d like to be involved in or support?  
  • Create your tailored CV and cover letter, clearly outlining what you are asking of the organisation and highlighting what you can bring.  What’s your unique offer? 

The websites below hold directories which can be a helpful place to start, when researching potential organisations of interest and congruent values.  

Internships 

Internships in the UK are usually, but not always, designed for undergraduate students, so do read application criteria carefully.  An internship in any sector will help you gain relevant transferrable skills. 

Opportunities to gain experience through internships and work experience can commonly be found through speculative approaches. Larger scale organisations periodically advertise internships. Bright Network and Handshake Jobs can serve as a useful starting point to finding internships. 

Any of Career Zone's internships could offer an invaluable supply of added experience. 

  • Professional Pathways: a suite of sector specific training courses and paid week-long internships that take place in June.  

Further information here on Target Jobs –‘What is an internship and how do I get one?’ and a Career Zone blog explaining the difference between graduate schemes, work placements, internships. 

Volunteering 

Voluntary work experience will allow you to develop your communication, organisation and other skills which could help leverage industry opportunities in retail. 

 

Graduate jobs and schemes

A graduate scheme and a graduate job are both employment opportunities for recent graduates, but differ in structure and purpose. Competition is strong, especially for entry-level positions. Use the following resources to find advertised vacancies and research employers. 

Graduate schemes 

A graduate scheme is a structured programme providing comprehensive training and development within an organisation, typically involving rotations through different departments or roles within an organisation, allowing graduates to gain a broad understanding of the business and develop diverse skills. 

Graduate Job Opportunities  

A graduate job is an entry-level position that requires a degree. Training will be provided; however, as with any job role, it will be less formal and focused on ‘on-the-job’ learning. Graduates are typically hired for a specific role within a department with the expectation of being able to contribute to the role immediately, without the rotational experiences that are part of graduate schemes. 

The following links can be useful resources for finding advertised vacancies and researching employers. 

Libraries and Information 

Intellectual Property 

For general information about finding graduate opportunities, please visit our Graduate Jobs page, and for a list of general job search engines please visit our general job sources page. You could also have a look at Handshake, our vacancy database with employers who are targeting University of Exeter students.  

Finding companies for speculative applications 

As jobs are not always advertised, developing your networking skills and applying speculatively can be helpful. You may find the following prompts a useful place to start:  

  • Research and make a shortlist of potential employers leading the way in the field in which you want to work. 
  • Identify organisations whose culture, interests and purpose align with your passion and values. 
  • Explore company structure and roles.  What opportunities do you see for possible job roles or work experience? 
  • Create your tailored CV and covering letter, clearly outlining what you are asking for and why they should consider you.  What are your unique selling point(s)? 

Make the most of our comprehensive programme of skills sessions throughout your studies, on topics including networking essentials, communication skills, job hunting, job hunting and writing an effective cover letter, to support your direct approaches.   

Explore further techniques and strategies for identifying and approaching potential employers on our Researching Employers page. 

Agencies 

Similar to other sectors there exists a number of specialist recruitment agencies which may serve as another line of enquiry to source work. Merlin Wright Associates is an illustrative example such an agency recruiting IP professionals, and Glen Recruitment as an agency specialising in library and information jobs.  

Further sources of support 

For further advice on finding graduate opportunities, visit our finding a graduate job page. 

If you are an international student, visit our web pages for help finding opportunities both in the UK and globally. 

Further study and professional development

To find opportunities outside the UK use GoinGlobal. Log in using your university email address. The worldwide country guides cover everything from job search resources and CV guidelines to cultural advice and visa information. Watch a short training video on how to get the most from GoinGlobal (4 minutes 20 seconds). 

Some individuals decide to undertake further study to build their skills and knowledge of the sector. Not all roles or employers will require this, so it is important to research entry requirements and employer preferences before committing to additional training or qualifications. You may have the option to gain professional qualifications after graduating which will show your commitment towards the industry. Use the sites below to research your further study options.  

There are many different routes into the sector including graduate roles, postgraduate study, volunteering, internships and more. A postgraduate study programme could enable specialisation, a career change or competitive advantage. Complementing your degree with professional qualifications to show your commitment towards the industry such as an ARA accredited course or a CILIP accredited course 

If you would like to pursue postgraduate study before entering your chosen sector, please visit our Postgraduate Study page for more information about choosing further study. If you are unsure whether further study is for you, you may wish to attend our ‘Postgraduate study: is it right for you?’ session which runs termly. Find these advertised on Handshake. 

Further information  

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Many major graduate recruiters have policies and processes that are proactive in recruiting graduates from diverse backgrounds. To find out the policies and attitudes of employers that you are interested in, explore their equality and diversity policies and see if they offer ‘Guaranteed Interview Schemes’ (for disabled applicants) or are recognised for their policy by such indicators as ‘Mindful Employer’ or as a ‘Stonewalls Diversity Champion’. 

The UK law protects you from discrimination due to your age, gender, race, religion or beliefs, disability or sexual orientation. For further information on the Equality Act and to find out where and how you are protected, as well as information on what you need to do if you feel you have been discriminated against, visit the Government’s webpages on discrimination. 

To learn more about how to share details of a disability with an employer and the support you can receive applying for jobs and work experience visit our equality and diversity page. See below for some sample schemes promoting inclusion, diversity and equality.  

Further information  

  • IP Inclusive – network of IP professional promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in the sector. 
  • UK Intellectual Property publications on equality and diversity.