Top 11 Reference Librarian Certifications

Certifications demonstrate that a reference librarian has maintained a high level of professional knowledge and skills. In today’s competitive job market, employers are looking for individuals who have the qualifications and experience to carry out their duties effectively. Certifications provide an objective measure of a librarian's expertise, which can help them stand out from the competition. Additionally, certifications allow employers to quickly assess an individual’s qualifications without having to review their entire resume or conduct lengthy interviews. Finally, certifications can also be helpful for librarians who are seeking promotions or lateral moves within their organization as they demonstrate commitment to their profession.

This article reviews the top certifications for Reference Librarians, and explains how they can help advance a Reference Librarian's career.

What are Reference Librarian Certifications?

Reference librarian certification is a type of professional credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of reference librarians. A reference librarian provides assistance to patrons in finding information, such as books, articles, websites, and databases. To become certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by the American Library Association (ALA). The certification requires mastery of topics such as library management, research methods, cataloging and classification systems, information retrieval systems, and library user education.

By obtaining this certification, reference librarians demonstrate their commitment to providing quality service to patrons. Certification validates the librarian's expertise in locating and evaluating information sources. It also shows that they are up-to-date with current trends in library science. Additionally, it may help them stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions within libraries or related organizations. Finally, being certified can open up opportunities for advancement within the library profession.

Pro Tip: If you're interested in becoming a certified reference librarian, be sure to research the different certification programs available and find one that best meets your needs. Additionally, take advantage of any online courses or resources offered by the certifying organization to get an edge on the competition.

Related: What does a Reference Librarian do?

Top 11 Reference Librarian Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Librarian (CPL)

Certified Professional Librarian (CPL) is a professional certification awarded by the American Library Association (ALA) to librarians who have met specific educational and experience requirements. It is intended to demonstrate that an individual has achieved a level of expertise in library science and is committed to professional development.

To become certified, applicants must hold a master’s degree in library science from an ALA-accredited program, have at least two years of full-time professional library experience, and pass an examination administered by the ALA. The exam covers topics such as cataloging, reference services, information technology, collection development, and administration.

The certification process typically takes about six months from application submission to taking the exam. Once the application is approved and the fee paid, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. The cost of certification depends on whether or not you are a member of ALA; it ranges from $250-$400.

2. Certified Library and Information Professional (CLIP)

Certified Library and Information Professional (CLIP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Library Association (ALA). This certification is designed to recognize library professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of library and information science.

The CLIP program requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as library management, cataloging, reference services, technology, collection development, and more. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CLIP certification, applicants must have at least a master's degree in library science from an ALA-accredited institution or equivalent experience. In addition, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience working in a library setting.

The cost for the CLIP exam is $295 for ALA members and $395 for non-members. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official certificate from ALA within 8 weeks.

3. American Library Association Certification in Reference and User Services (ALA-RUSA)

The American Library Association Certification in Reference and User Services (ALA-RUSA) is a professional certification program that recognizes librarians who demonstrate expertise in reference and user services. The certification is intended to provide recognition for librarians who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field.

The program consists of two components: an online examination and a portfolio review. The online exam covers topics such as reference sources, library services, technology, management, and professional practices. The portfolio review requires applicants to submit evidence of their experience and skills related to reference and user services.

It typically takes between one and two years to complete the ALA-RUSA certification process. To get started, applicants must first register with the ALA-RUSA website and pay a fee of $175. After registering, they will be given access to the online exam which must be completed within 90 days. Once the exam has been passed, applicants will then need to begin working on their portfolio review which should include evidence of their experience in reference and user services.

Once both components have been completed successfully, applicants will receive their official ALA-RUSA certification from the American Library Association. This certification is valid for five years after which time it must be renewed by re-taking the online examination or submitting additional evidence of professional development activities related to reference and user services.

4. Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM)

The Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM) is a professional organization that provides certification for records management professionals. The ICRM was founded in 1989 and is the only international certifying body for records managers.

The ICRM offers two levels of certification: Certified Records Manager (CRM) and Certified Archivist (CA). To become certified, applicants must meet certain education and experience requirements, pass an examination, and agree to abide by the ICRM's Code of Professional Ethics.

To become a CRM, applicants must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience and at least three years of full-time records management experience. The CRM exam consists of five parts: Records Management Fundamentals; Access & Retrieval; Classification & Indexing; Storage & Preservation; and Legal & Regulatory Compliance.

To become a CA, applicants must have a master's degree in archival studies or equivalent experience and at least three years of full-time archival experience. The CA exam consists of four parts: Collection Development & Management; Preservation & Access; Appraisal & Acquisition; and Administration & Management.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the process from application to certification. The cost for either level of certification is $395 USD for members ($495 USD for non-members).

5. Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA)

The Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides certification for archivists. The ACA was established in 1985 to recognize the professional achievements of archivists and to promote standards of excellence in the field.

The ACA offers two levels of certification: Certified Archivist (CA) and Master Archivist (MA). To become a CA, applicants must have at least a master's degree in archives or library science from an accredited program, plus three years of professional experience in archives. To become an MA, applicants must have at least a master's degree in archives or library science from an accredited program, plus five years of professional experience in archives.

Applicants must also pass two exams: the Fundamentals Exam and the Professional Practices Exam. The Fundamentals Exam tests knowledge of basic archival theory and practice; the Professional Practices Exam tests knowledge of current trends and practices in archival work. Both exams are administered by the ACA once per year.

The cost for taking both exams is $400 for non-members and $350 for members. There is also an annual membership fee of $75 for individuals who wish to join the ACA. Once certified, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 for CAs and $75 for MAs.

In total, it can take up to two years to become certified as a CA or MA depending on when you take your exams and how long it takes you to accumulate enough professional experience.

6. National Online Training Program for Reference and Information Services (NOTPRIS)

The National Online Training Program for Reference and Information Services (NOTPRIS) is a comprehensive online training program designed to provide library professionals with the skills they need to provide high quality reference and information services. The program consists of five courses that cover topics such as reference sources, search techniques, customer service, outreach, and technology. Each course includes an interactive tutorial, quizzes, and a final exam.

The NOTPRIS program takes approximately six months to complete. The courses can be taken at any time during the year and are offered in both English and Spanish. Students can work at their own pace and have up to one year from the date of registration to complete all five courses.

To get started with NOTPRIS, students must register through the American Library Association’s website. Once registered, students will receive access instructions via email within two business days. The cost for the entire program is $495 USD.

7. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Certification in Reference Services

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Certification in Reference Services is an internationally recognized certification program for librarians who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in reference services. The certification is valid for five years, after which it must be renewed.

In order to obtain the IFLA Certification in Reference Services, individuals must complete a series of assessment activities that demonstrate their knowledge and skills in providing reference services. These activities include taking an online self-assessment test, attending an IFLA-accredited training course, or completing an approved project. Once these activities are completed, individuals will receive a certificate from IFLA confirming their certification status.

The cost of obtaining the IFLA Certification in Reference Services varies depending on the assessment activities chosen by the individual. For example, the cost of attending an IFLA-accredited training course can range from $200 to $500 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel and accommodation if attending a course in person.

8. American Society for Indexing (ASI) Certification in Indexing

The American Society for Indexing (ASI) Certification in Indexing is a professional certification program that recognizes the competency and proficiency of indexers. It is designed to provide recognition of an individual's ability to create quality indexes, as well as to promote the profession of indexing.

To become certified, applicants must demonstrate a mastery of indexing principles and techniques by passing a comprehensive examination. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral presentation. The written portion tests knowledge of indexing theory, practice, and software; while the oral presentation requires applicants to create an index on a given topic.

The process typically takes between four and six months from start to finish, depending on the applicant's level of experience and preparation. During this time, applicants are expected to complete coursework in indexing theory and practice, familiarize themselves with various software programs used in creating indexes, and participate in workshops or seminars related to the field.

The cost for certification depends on whether or not you are already an ASI member. For non-members, the fee is $375; for members it is $275. Additional fees may apply if you require additional materials or services such as courses or workshops related to indexing.

9. Technical Services Management Certificate Program

The Technical Services Management Certificate Program is an online program designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage technical services in a variety of industries. The program consists of three courses that cover topics such as project management, customer service, and operations management. Each course takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete and requires a minimum of 20 hours of study per week.

In order to receive the certificate, students must successfully complete all three courses with a minimum grade of 70%. Upon completion, students will receive a digital certificate from the American Management Association (AMA) that can be used for professional development or job applications.

The cost of the Technical Services Management Certificate Program varies depending on the number of courses taken. For example, if you take one course it will cost $1,295; two courses will cost $2,590; and all three courses will cost $3,885. All fees are nonrefundable and must be paid in full before beginning the program.

10. National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Certification in School Library Media Specialization

The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) is a voluntary, non-governmental organization that accredits teacher education programs at colleges and universities in the United States. NCATE certification in School Library Media Specialization is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in school library media services. This certification can be obtained by completing an approved program of study and passing the required exams.

How long does it take to get NCATE Certification?

It typically takes two to three years to complete the requirements for NCATE Certification in School Library Media Specialization. The program includes coursework, field experiences, and assessments. Depending on your prior experience, you may be able to complete the program more quickly.

How do I get NCATE Certification?

To become certified, you must first complete an approved program of study from an accredited college or university. Once you have completed your studies, you must pass the required exams administered by NCATE. You will also need to submit transcripts and other documents as part of your application process.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining NCATE Certification in School Library Media Specialization varies depending on the institution offering the program and other factors such as fees associated with taking exams or submitting documents. Generally speaking, expect to pay several thousand dollars for tuition and related costs over the course of two to three years.

11. National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification in School Library Media Specialization

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification in School Library Media Specialization is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the professional achievements of school library media specialists. It is designed to recognize those who have achieved an advanced level of knowledge, experience, and skills in the field of school library media.

To obtain NBPTS certification, applicants must demonstrate their mastery of standards related to the role and responsibilities of a school library media specialist. This includes demonstrating their ability to create learning environments that foster inquiry and collaboration; develop collections that meet the needs of all learners; provide instruction in information literacy; and collaborate with teachers, administrators, parents, and other stakeholders.

The process for obtaining NBPTS certification can take up to two years. The first step is to complete an online application which requires providing evidence of meeting the eligibility requirements. After submitting the application, applicants must complete four components: a portfolio assessment, an assessment center performance task, a content specialty exam, and a video performance task. Once all components are successfully completed, applicants will receive their certificate from NBPTS.

The cost for applying for NBPTS certification varies depending on the state or jurisdiction where you live. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $2,500-$3,000 USD to apply for this certification program.

Do You Really Need a Reference Librarian Certificate?

No, you do not need a reference librarian certificate to become a reference librarian. In many cases, having a certificate may be beneficial for those who are seeking employment in the field, but it is not required. A reference librarian certificate does provide an individual with additional knowledge and skills that can help them in their role as a reference librarian, but those skills can often be acquired through other means such as on the job training or self-study.

In some cases, employers may prefer to hire candidates who have completed a certificate program because they know that they have been trained and tested on the necessary skills needed to be successful in the role. Additionally, having a certificate may give the candidate an edge over other applicants who do not have one. However, having a certificate is not always necessary for securing employment as a reference librarian; some employers may prefer experience and education over certifications.

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue a reference librarian certificate is up to you and depends on your individual circumstances. If you are looking for employment as a reference librarian and believe that having this certification may help you stand out from other applicants or gain additional knowledge of the position then it might be worth pursuing. However, if you already possess the necessary qualifications for the job or feel confident in your ability to learn quickly on the job then there is no requirement for obtaining this certification.

Related: Reference Librarian Resume Examples

FAQs About Reference Librarian Certifications

1. What is a Reference Librarian Certification?

Answer: A Reference Librarian Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates knowledge and experience in the field of reference librarianship. It is awarded by the American Library Association after successful completion of an examination.

2. How do I become certified as a Reference Librarian?

Answer: To become certified as a Reference Librarian, you must first complete a graduate-level library science program, then pass the ALA's certification examination for reference librarians.

3. What topics are covered on the certification exam?

Answer: The topics covered on the certification exam include library operations and services, cataloging and classification, reference sources and services, information literacy instruction, computer applications, research methods and resources, and legal issues related to libraries.

4. Is there any continuing education required to maintain my certification?

Answer: Yes, continuing education is required to maintain your certification as a Reference Librarian. You must complete at least 20 hours of approved continuing education activities every two years in order to keep your certification current.

5. Are there any special requirements for those working in public libraries?

Answer: Yes, if you are working in a public library setting you will need to complete additional training related to public library services such as circulation management, customer service policies and procedures, collection development and maintenance, grant writing and fundraising strategies for libraries.