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ALA-APA Certification Programs
Strengthen Your Skills. Advance Your Career. Impact Your Library.
About Certification Programs
Library roles are constantly evolving, and certification shows your current or future employer that you’re evolving with it. To address the growing need for training and skills development, the ALA-APA has developed two new certification programs designed for today’s library workforce. The programs offer a rigorous, self-paced learning pathway to support staff and managers in all types of libraries.
What’s Included
The programs include six courses you can complete at your own pace, on your own time. You’ll complete one core course covering the foundational elements of library service or management and choose from a variety of elective courses that deepen your knowledge and refine your skills in key areas.
How You’ll Learn
Each course combines:
- Video lectures
- Instructor support
- Reading materials
- Hands-on activities
- Regular assessments
What You’ll Gain
After becoming certified, you’ll leave with:
- Formal recognition of your library expertise
- Comprehensive, practical training
- Skills to overcome common challenges facing libraries today
- Confidence and credibility for career advancement
- A résumé-building credential that puts you a step ahead
Library Paraprofessional and Support Staff Certification
Library support staff bring invaluable hands-on experience to their work—and now there’s a flexible, modern way to formalize that expertise.
Core Course: Fundamentals of Library Service
Elective Courses:
- Reference and Information Services
- Collection Development
- Cataloging
- Programming and Outreach
- Management
Cost: ALA Member: $1,350 | Nonmember: $1,500 Bulk discounts are available. Please contact ce@ala.org to learn more.
Library Manager Certification
Many library managers enter their positions without formal management training. Management certification offers a unique, flexible, and practical way to fill knowledge gaps and elevate management skills.
Core Course: Fundamentals of Library Management
Elective Courses:
- Budget and Finance
- Human Resources/Managing People
- Library Building and Facility Management
- Advocacy/Working with Stakeholders
- Emergency Response
Cost: ALA Member: $1,350 | Nonmember: $1,500 Bulk discounts are available. Please contact ce@ala.org to learn more.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or are interested in bulk purchases, please contact ce@ala.org.
