Top 11 Circulation Assistant Certifications

Certifications are important for a circulation assistant in the job market because they demonstrate proficiency and competency in the field. Additionally, certifications provide evidence of qualifications that employers look for when hiring. Certifications give employers the assurance that an individual is capable of completing tasks related to circulation and library services. Finally, certifications can help a circulation assistant stand out from other applicants, providing them with an advantage over other candidates who do not hold such credentials.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Circulation Assistants and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Circulation Assistant Certifications?

Circulation assistant certification is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of those who work in circulation services within public, school, academic, and special libraries. This certification program is designed to ensure that library staff have the necessary skills to effectively manage all aspects of circulation services.

The certification is administered by the American Library Association (ALA) and requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, circulation policies and procedures, collection development and maintenance, library technology systems, and copyright laws. Circulation assistants must also demonstrate competency in areas such as problem-solving, communication, organization, and teamwork.

By becoming certified as a circulation assistant, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to their profession while furthering their knowledge of library services. Certification also provides a way for library employers to identify qualified candidates when hiring for positions in circulation services. In addition, it can provide an opportunity for career advancement for those already employed in libraries.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a circulation assistant certification, make sure to stay up to date on the most current best practices and standards. This will help ensure that you are well equipped to handle any situation that may arise in the workplace. Additionally, it is important to take advantage of any continuing education opportunities available so that you can remain knowledgeable and competent in your field.

Related: What does a Circulation Assistant do?

Top 11 Circulation Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Circulation Assistants today.

1. Certified Library Circulation Assistant (CLCA)

Certified Library Circulation Assistant (CLCA) is a certification program that provides library professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage library circulation services. The CLCA program is offered by the American Library Association (ALA) and is designed to help library staff provide excellent customer service, understand circulation policies, and effectively manage library materials.

The CLCA program consists of three courses: Introduction to Circulation Services, Circulation Policies & Procedures, and Collection Management & Maintenance. Each course includes lectures, readings, activities, assignments, and an end-of-course exam. To earn the CLCA credential, students must successfully complete all three courses and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The CLCA program takes approximately six months to complete if you are taking one course at a time. You can also choose to take all three courses at once in an accelerated format which will take about two months to complete.

To get started in the CLCA program you need to register for the ALA’s online learning platform where you can access course materials and exams. The cost of registration for all three courses is $400 USD.

2. Certified Library Circulation Professional (CLCP)

Certified Library Circulation Professional (CLCP) is a certification program offered by the American Library Association (ALA). It is designed to recognize library professionals with expertise in circulation and access services. The CLCP certification demonstrates a commitment to quality customer service and knowledge of best practices for circulation operations.

The CLCP certification requires applicants to have at least two years of professional experience in library circulation services and pass an online exam. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as circulation policies, procedures, and technology; customer service; collection development; and public relations. The exam must be completed within 3 hours.

To get the CLCP certification, applicants must first complete an application form and pay a fee of $175 USD. Once approved, applicants can register for the exam through the ALA website. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from ALA.

The cost of the CLCP certification includes the application fee ($175 USD) plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with registering for the exam.

3. Certified Circulation Manager (CCM)

Certified Circulation Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). It is designed to recognize circulation professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the core skills needed to effectively manage a media publication's circulation operations. The CCM credential is the highest level of recognition available in the circulation profession and signifies an individual’s commitment to excellence in their field.

The CCM program consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral interview. The written exam tests knowledge and understanding of topics such as circulation strategy, pricing, distribution, promotion, customer service, and audit compliance. The oral interview assesses an individual’s ability to apply their knowledge in practical situations.

To be eligible for the CCM program, applicants must have at least three years of experience managing a media publication’s circulation operations or equivalent experience in a related field. They must also submit proof of membership in AAM or another recognized media association.

The cost of the CCM program varies depending on whether you are taking the written exam only or both the written exam and oral interview. For those taking only the written exam, there is a $200 fee; for those taking both exams, there is a $400 fee.

The length of time it takes to complete the CCM program depends on how quickly you can prepare for and pass both exams. Generally speaking, it takes about two months from start to finish if you are preparing on your own; however, some individuals may take longer depending on their level of preparation and other factors.

4. Certified Public Library Circulation Specialist (CPLCS)

A Certified Public Library Circulation Specialist (CPLCS) is a professional certification offered by the American Library Association (ALA). It is designed to recognize library circulation professionals who have achieved a level of expertise in the field. The CPLCS certification demonstrates that an individual has met rigorous standards for knowledge and experience in library circulation services.

The CPLCS certification process includes two parts: an online application and a written exam. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their education, work experience, and other qualifications. Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the ALA Certification Committee. If approved, applicants will receive an invitation to take the CPLCS exam.

The CPLCS exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as library circulation policies and procedures, collection development and management, customer service, and technology applications in libraries. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and must be taken at an approved testing center.

The cost of taking the CPLCS exam is $250 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. Applicants may also need to pay additional fees for proctoring services or other expenses related to taking the test at a testing center.

5. Certified Academic Library Circulation Professional (CALCP)

Certified Academic Library Circulation Professional (CALCP) is a certification program offered by the American Library Association (ALA). It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of library circulation professionals working in academic libraries. The CALCP program provides an opportunity for librarians to demonstrate their professional competency in circulation services, including collection development and management, patron services, and technology management.

The CALCP program requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in an academic library setting and a bachelor's degree. Applicants must also complete a comprehensive exam that covers topics related to circulation services such as collection development, patron services, and technology management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions as well as essay questions.

It typically takes about six months from the time an application is submitted until the applicant receives notification of their results. The cost for the certification exam is $250 for ALA members or $350 for non-members.

6. Certified Medical Library Circulation Specialist (CMLCS)

A Certified Medical Library Circulation Specialist (CMLCS) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and skills to manage circulation services in a medical library. This includes managing library materials, such as books and journals, and providing access to them for patrons.

To become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience in medical library circulation services or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by the Medical Library Association (MLA). The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as library management, cataloging, collection development, information retrieval, and customer service.

The cost of taking the CMLCS exam is $175 for MLA members and $225 for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the exam itself as well as any study materials that may be needed to prepare for it.

It usually takes about six weeks after submitting an application to receive authorization to take the exam. Once authorized, applicants can schedule their exams at any Prometric testing center within six months from the date of authorization.

7. Certified School Library Media Center Circulation Technician (CSLMCCT)

A Certified School Library Media Center Circulation Technician (CSLMCCT) is a certification program designed to help school library media center personnel become more knowledgeable in their field. The program is offered by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL).

The CSLMCCT certification requires successful completion of an online course and passing a comprehensive exam. The online course consists of two parts: the first part covers library management and the second part covers circulation procedures. The comprehensive exam tests knowledge and understanding of library management, circulation procedures, and other related topics.

To obtain the CSLMCCT certification, individuals must complete the online course and pass the comprehensive exam with a score of 80% or higher. It typically takes approximately four weeks to complete both parts of the course and pass the exam.

The cost for the CSLMCCT certification is $250 USD. This fee includes access to both parts of the online course as well as one attempt at taking the comprehensive exam. Additional attempts at taking the exam will incur an additional fee.

8. American Library Association's Certification in Access Services & Resource Sharing Management (CASRSM)

The American Library Association's Certification in Access Services & Resource Sharing Management (CASRSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise and knowledge in the areas of access services and resource sharing management. The CASRSM certification is intended to provide library administrators, supervisors, and other professionals with an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in access services and resource sharing management.

The CASRSM program requires applicants to complete a comprehensive application process that includes submitting an official transcript from an accredited college or university, providing two letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues, and passing a written examination. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as library operations, information technology, interlibrary loan procedures, cataloging principles, collection development policies, customer service practices, and more. Applicants must also successfully complete a practicum project that demonstrates their ability to apply their knowledge of access services and resource sharing management in a real-world setting.

The CASRSM certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the applicant's level of preparation and the amount of time they dedicate to studying for the exam. Applicants are encouraged to use the available study materials provided by ALA prior to taking the exam.

The cost for the CASRSM certification program is $400 USD. This fee covers all required materials including the application fee, study guide, practice exams, practicum project materials, and exam registration fees.

9. National Association of College and University Business Officers' Certification in Access Services & Resource Sharing Management (NACUBO-CASRSM)

The National Association of College and University Business Officers’ Certification in Access Services & Resource Sharing Management (NACUBO-CASRSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of access services and resource sharing management. The program provides recognition for those who have achieved mastery in this area, which is essential for successful library operations.

The NACUBO-CASRSM certification requires applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of access services and resource sharing management. The exam consists of multiple choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Applicants must also complete an online application form, submit two letters of recommendation, and provide proof of at least three years of experience in the field.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the certification process. During this time, applicants must study for the exam, complete the application form, submit letters of recommendation, and provide proof of experience.

To get certified by NACUBO-CASRSM, applicants must pay an application fee as well as a fee for taking the exam. The exact cost varies depending on the applicant's location but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD.

10. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions' Certification in Access Services & Resource Sharing Management (IFLA-CASRSM)

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Certification in Access Services & Resource Sharing Management (IFLA-CASRSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize library staff who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of access services and resource sharing. The certification program is open to all library professionals regardless of their educational background or experience level.

The IFLA-CASRSM certification requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as collection development, cataloging, circulation, reference services, interlibrary loan, and resource sharing. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for the exam is $150 USD.

To become certified by IFLA-CASRSM, you must first apply for the certification by submitting an online application form. After your application is approved, you will be sent an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. Once you have successfully completed the exam and received a passing score, you will receive your official IFLA-CASRSM certificate within two weeks.

11. Electronic Resources Librarianship Certificate Program from the University of North Texas

The Electronic Resources Librarianship Certificate Program from the University of North Texas is an online program designed to provide librarians with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage electronic resources in libraries. The program consists of five courses, each focusing on a different aspect of electronic resources management. It takes approximately one year to complete the program, and students must complete all five courses in order to receive their certificate.

In order to get the Electronic Resources Librarianship Certificate, students must first apply for admission into the program through the University of North Texas website. Once accepted, students can register for individual courses or enroll in the full certificate program. Each course costs $400 and must be paid for at registration. The total cost for completing the entire certificate program is $2,000.

Do You Really Need a Circulation Assistant Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual career goals. A Circulation Assistant Certificate is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field of library circulation, but it is not necessarily a requirement for all positions.

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a library circulation assistant, then obtaining a Circulation Assistant Certificate may be beneficial. It will give you an edge over other applicants and show potential employers that you have taken the initiative to become certified in the field. The certificate can also help you stand out from other job seekers who do not have any special qualifications or certifications related to library circulation.

On the other hand, if you already have experience working in libraries or are looking for a job that does not involve direct interaction with patrons, then a Circulation Assistant Certificate may not be necessary. In this case, focus instead on developing skills that are applicable to your desired position such as customer service, interpersonal communication, computer literacy, and organizational skills. These types of skills can often outweigh certifications when it comes time for employers to make hiring decisions.

In conclusion, whether or not you need to obtain a Circulation Assistant Certificate will depend on your individual career goals and what type of position you are seeking. If library circulation is an important part of your desired role then it may be beneficial to pursue certification; however if other qualifications are more relevant then focus instead on building those skillsets.

Related: Circulation Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Circulation Assistant Certifications

1. What is a Circulation Assistant Certification?

A Circulation Assistant Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist library patrons in finding and using library resources. The certification focuses on customer service, circulation desk operations, cataloging and classification of materials, and other related topics.

2. How do I become certified as a Circulation Assistant?

In order to become certified as a Circulation Assistant, an individual must complete specific coursework related to the field of library science, such as Introduction to Library Science or Library Services for Patrons. After completion of the coursework, an individual must pass an exam administered by the American Library Association (ALA).

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Circulation Assistant?

Becoming certified as a Circulation Assistant provides many benefits such as increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and greater respect from peers in the industry. Additionally, certification can help demonstrate one’s commitment to professionalism in one’s chosen field.

4. Where can I find more information about becoming certified as a Circulation Assistant?

More information about becoming certified can be found on the American Library Association (ALA) website at https://www.ala.org/education/circassistantcertification . Additionally, local libraries may also offer classes or seminars that can provide additional information about becoming certified in this field.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

Yes, once an individual has achieved their certification they must complete 24 hours of approved continuing education credits every two years in order to maintain their certification status with the ALA.