Top 10 Librarian Certifications

Certifications are important for librarians in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of competency and knowledge that employers look for. Certification also shows that an individual has taken the time to gain additional skills and knowledge in order to improve their professional development. Certifications can help librarians stand out from other applicants, as they show potential employers that the individual is dedicated to their profession and has invested in their own growth. Additionally, certifications can open doors to new opportunities, such as library management positions or working with special collections.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Librarians and explains how they can help advance a librarian's career.

What are Librarian Certifications?

Librarian certification is an official recognition of a librarian’s qualifications and experience. It is typically administered by professional organizations or educational programs. Certification can be beneficial for both librarians and libraries in a variety of ways.

For librarians, certification can provide evidence of their expertise, which may lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries. In addition, certifications may provide access to continuing education programs and specialized workshops that help librarians stay current on new developments in the field.

For libraries, having certified librarians on staff can provide assurance to patrons that they are receiving accurate information and services from knowledgeable professionals. Additionally, certified librarians may have access to resources that can benefit the library—such as discounts on books or materials—that non-certified librarians do not have access to. Finally, certification can help libraries create a more positive public image since it demonstrates a commitment to providing quality services.

Pro Tip: When considering librarian certification, it is important to research the requirements and prerequisites for certification in your state or region. Each state and region may have different requirements for certification, so it is important to make sure you understand what is required before beginning the process.

Related: What does a Librarian do?

Top 10 Librarian Certifications

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

1. Certified Public Library Administrator (CPLA)

Certified Public Library Administrator (CPLA) is a certification program offered by the Public Library Association (PLA). It is designed to recognize and promote professional excellence in public library administration. The CPLA credential is awarded to those who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for successful public library administration.

To obtain the CPLA credential, applicants must complete a rigorous application process that includes passing an extensive written exam. The exam covers topics such as library management, budgeting, personnel management, technology planning, and customer service. Applicants must also submit documentation of their educational background and professional experience in public libraries.

It typically takes between two and four months to complete the application process for the CPLA credential. Applicants should plan on spending up to 10 hours per week studying for the exam and completing the required paperwork.

The cost of obtaining the CPLA credential varies depending on where you live. In most cases, it costs around $500-$600 USD to apply for the CPLA credential. This fee covers the cost of taking the exam as well as any additional fees associated with submitting your application materials.

2. Certified Information Professional (CIP)

Certified Information Professional (CIP) is a professional certification program offered by the Information and Records Management Society (IRMS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of information management. CIP certification is an internationally recognized qualification that demonstrates expertise in the areas of information governance, records management, data protection, and digital preservation.

To become certified as a CIP, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in information management or related fields, or hold a degree from an accredited college or university. In addition, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as legal compliance, data protection, records management fundamentals, and digital preservation.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Candidates are allowed to take up to three attempts at the exam before they must reapply for certification. The cost of taking the exam is $150 USD.

Once certified, CIPs are required to maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years. This can be done through attending conferences, workshops, seminars or other approved activities related to information management.

3. Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)

Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) is an advanced degree program designed to prepare students for professional careers in library and information science. The program focuses on the management, organization, and use of information resources and technologies. It also provides students with the necessary skills to work in libraries, archives, museums, government agencies, corporations, and other organizations that manage information.

The MLIS typically takes two years to complete when studying full-time. Part-time study may take longer depending on the student's schedule. To get an MLIS degree, applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Most programs require applicants to submit GRE scores as well as letters of recommendation from professors or employers.

The cost of an MLIS varies depending on the school and program chosen by the student. Tuition costs can range from $15,000-$50,000 for a two-year program. Additional fees such as books and supplies may be required as well. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

Overall, the MLIS is a great way to gain knowledge in library and information science that can lead to a successful career in this field.

4. Certified Archivist (CA)

Certified Archivist (CA) is a professional certification offered by the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA). The certification is designed to recognize archivists who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field. It is intended to be an indication of professional competence and dedication to the profession and its standards.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria including having at least two years of experience in the field, completing a minimum number of hours of continuing education, passing an examination, and agreeing to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as archival theory, principles, techniques, and management.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. The application fee for certification is $250 USD for ACA members or $350 USD for non-members. Additional fees may apply for retaking exams or other services related to obtaining certification.

5. Digital Archives Specialist (DAS)

A Digital Archives Specialist (DAS) is a professional who specializes in the preservation, organization, and management of digital content. A DAS works with digital media such as documents, photographs, audio recordings, videos, and other materials to ensure they are properly stored and preserved for future use. They also work with databases to organize information and provide access to digital collections.

It typically takes several years of experience working in the field of archives or library science to become a Digital Archives Specialist. Individuals should have an understanding of archival principles and practices as well as knowledge of software applications used for managing digital content. It is also recommended that individuals have experience with metadata standards and data management systems.

To become a Digital Archives Specialist, individuals must complete a degree program in library science or archives management from an accredited college or university. Many employers may also require certification from the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA). The ACA offers two levels of certification: Certified Archivist (CA) and Digital Archives Specialist (DAS). To qualify for DAS certification, applicants must pass a written exam as well as demonstrate at least three years of professional experience working in the field.

The cost for DAS certification varies depending on the type of membership chosen by the applicant. The ACA offers both individual memberships ($125/year) and organizational memberships ($250/year). Fees associated with taking the written exam range from $50-$200 depending on the type of membership chosen by the applicant.

6. Academic/Research Librarian Certification (ARL-C)

The Academic/Research Librarian Certification (ARL-C) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL). It is designed to recognize librarians who have achieved a high level of expertise in providing library services to academic and research institutions.

The ARL-C certification process consists of three components: an online application, an on-site assessment, and a portfolio review. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their educational background, professional experience, and current employment. The on-site assessment involves a series of interviews with library staff members and administrators at the applicant's current institution. Finally, the portfolio review requires applicants to submit evidence of their accomplishments in areas such as collection development, instruction, user services, and technology management.

It typically takes 6 months to complete the ARL-C certification process. During this time, applicants must complete all three components of the process and submit their portfolios for review.

In order to get certified as an ARL-C librarian, applicants must meet certain criteria including having a master’s degree from an ALA accredited program; having at least five years of professional experience in academic or research libraries; and demonstrating knowledge and skills related to library services in areas such as collection development, instruction, user services, and technology management.

The cost for obtaining ARL-C certification varies depending on the applicant’s institution but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. This fee covers the cost of processing applications and conducting assessments as well as providing resources for portfolio preparation.

7. School Library Media Specialist Certification (SLMS-C)

School Library Media Specialist Certification (SLMS-C) is a certification program for library media specialists who have completed the necessary coursework and requirements to become certified in the field. This certification is offered through the American Association of School Librarians (AASL). The certification is valid for five years and requires renewal every five years.

In order to become certified, an individual must hold a master’s degree in library science from an accredited university, have three years of successful school library media specialist experience, and complete 30 hours of continuing education credits within the five-year period. Additionally, individuals must pass the AASL School Library Media Specialist Certification Examination.

The cost of obtaining SLMS-C certification varies depending on the individual’s educational background and experience. Generally speaking, obtaining SLMS-C certification can cost anywhere from $200 to $400 depending on how many courses are needed to fulfill the requirements. The cost of taking the AASL School Library Media Specialist Certification Examination is also included in this fee.

It typically takes between one and two years to obtain SLMS-C certification depending on how quickly an individual can complete all of the required courses and examinations.

8. Youth Services Librarian Certification (YSL-C)

Youth Services Librarian Certification (YSL-C) is a professional certification program offered by the American Library Association (ALA). It is designed to recognize library professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in youth services librarianship. The YSL-C program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as collection development, programming, reader’s advisory, technology, and outreach.

The YSL-C program consists of three parts: an online self-assessment, an in-person practicum, and a written exam. The self-assessment includes questions about the applicant’s experience with youth services librarianship. The practicum consists of a two day workshop that focuses on topics such as collection development, programming, reader’s advisory, technology, and outreach. Finally, the written exam covers topics covered in the self-assessment and practicum.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete all three parts of the YSL-C program. Applicants must first register for the online self-assessment through ALA's website. Once they have completed the self-assessment they must then register for the practicum workshop which is usually held twice a year at various locations throughout the United States. Finally, applicants must take and pass the written exam which is administered online through ALA's website.

The cost for completing all three parts of the YSL-C program varies depending on whether or not you are an ALA member. For nonmembers it costs $400 for registration fees plus any additional travel expenses associated with attending the practicum workshop. For ALA members it costs $200 plus any additional travel expenses associated with attending the practicum workshop.

9. Systems Librarian Certification (SLC-C)

Systems Librarian Certification (SLC-C) is a certification program designed to recognize and promote the knowledge and skills of librarians in the field of systems librarianship. The SLC-C is administered by the American Library Association (ALA).

The SLC-C is a two-part process that consists of an online assessment and an in-person interview. The online assessment covers topics such as library technology, library management, information architecture, and digital resources. Applicants must pass both parts of the exam to be certified.

It typically takes about three months from start to finish to complete the SLC-C process. To get started, applicants must first register for the exam on the ALA website. After registration, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online assessment. Once they have completed the online assessment, they can then schedule their in-person interview with an ALA representative.

The cost of obtaining Systems Librarian Certification (SLC-C) is $250 USD for nonmembers of ALA or $200 USD for members. This fee covers both parts of the certification process: the online assessment and in-person interview.

10. Technical Services Librarian Certification (TSL-C)

Technical Services Librarian Certification (TSL-C) is a credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of library professionals working in technical services. It is awarded by the American Library Association’s Library Information Technology Association (LITA).

The TSL-C certification requires applicants to demonstrate their expertise in areas such as cataloging, metadata, acquisitions, serials management, and digital library technologies. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in technical services or related fields.

The certification process involves passing an online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions and essay questions. The exam covers topics such as cataloging principles, metadata standards and tools, acquisitions processes, serials management strategies, and digital library technologies. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To obtain the TSL-C certification, applicants must submit an application form along with a fee of $150 USD. Once approved by LITA, applicants will receive their certification within four weeks after submitting their application.

Do You Really Need a Librarian Certificate?

Whether or not you need a librarian certificate depends on your own individual situation. If you’re looking to become a professional librarian, then yes, you will likely need a librarian certificate. Depending on the type of library and the specific job you’re applying for, you may also need additional qualifications and certifications.

However, if you’re just looking to work in a library as an assistant or volunteer, then it is unlikely that you will need a librarian certificate. In many cases, having some knowledge of libraries and their operations can be enough to get started. Some libraries may also offer training programs or workshops to help volunteers become more familiar with their operations.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not you need a librarian certificate depends largely on your own personal circumstances and goals. If becoming a professional librarian is something that interests you, then it would be wise to look into obtaining the necessary certification. If not, then working in a library without one can still be rewarding and beneficial experience.

Related: Librarian Resume Examples

FAQs About Librarian Certifications

1. What is a librarian certification?

Answer: A librarian certification is a professional credential that demonstrates the holder's knowledge and skills in the field of library science. It is typically earned through passing an exam or completing an approved educational program.

2. Are there different types of librarian certifications?

Answer: Yes, there are multiple types of librarian certifications available including Certified Public Librarian (CPL), Library Information Specialist (LIS), and Digital Services Librarian (DSL).

3. How much does it cost to become certified?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of certification and the institution offering it. Generally, costs range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

4. Is a librarian certification required for certain jobs?

Answer: While some employers may require a librarian certification for certain positions, it is not always necessary to be hired for a library job. However, having a certification can demonstrate your commitment to the profession and help you stand out from other applicants.

5. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The amount of time required to complete the certification process will vary depending on the type of certification being pursued as well as any additional requirements such as coursework or exams that must be completed prior to earning the credential. Generally, it takes anywhere from six months to two years to earn a librarian certification depending on your individual circumstances.