The Certified Public Library Administrator

By Linda Bostrom

The Certified Public Library Administrator—or CPLA—designation is planned as the first certification to be launched by the ALA-APA. It has been developed by a joint effort of the Public Library Association (PLA), the Library Administration and Management Association (LAMA), and the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA), to encourage early career librarians to pursue senior level library management.

Aspirants to this certification must demonstrate proficiency in seven management and administrative functions. Five of these are required: Budget and Finance, Fundraising, Managing Technology, Organization and Personnel Administration, and Planning and Managing Library Buildings. Two others may be selected from the following areas: Current Issues, Marketing, Politics and Networking, and Service to Diverse Populations. Each function will be treated individually so certification candidates need concentrate on only one at a time.

Draft standards for each function were created by an earlier, larger committee of PLA, LAMA and ASCLA members in conjunction with professional Certification Consultant, Judith Hale, Ph.D. A task analysis survey to gauge the accuracy of the draft standards in reflecting current practice was conducted in Summer 2003. The results will be used to make adjustments to the existing standards so that they better reflect management practice. Dr. Hale continues to advise the existing CPLA Task Force as the standards are refined and the certification process is created.

Proficiency can be demonstrated or proven by one of three methods: by taking an approved educational course with built-in evaluation; by passing a written scenario exam, possibly online; or by submitting supportive documents or work product that is then reviewed by qualified reviewers. Candidates would have a predetermined time limit to successfully complete the work required in all seven functions.

As the governing body, the ALA-APA will oversee all aspects of the certification process: fee setting; application process; testing; bestowing the certification itself. The CPLA Task Force and a group comprised of members and staff are working together to bring this valuable recognition to fruition in the coming months.

Linda Bostrom is the Manager of Professional Development for the Public Library Association, a division of the American Library Association.