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MSL Certification Program

The Montana State Library Commission adopted new rules related to the certification program on December 10, 2025. 

10.102.1160 Personnel

(6) The director is or will be certified by the Montana State Library within the required timeframe mandated by the certification program adopted by the Montana State Library Commission.

(a) The purpose of the certification program is to ensure library directors have the foundational skills necessary to manage a public library that meets standards set forth in ARM Subchapter 10.102.11 Public Library Development.
(b) A course of study will be reviewed by the Commission annually for approval at its final meeting of the state fiscal year.
(c) Continuing education credits issued through the State Library certification program are the only eligible credits that can be applied to certification.
(d) The certification program will be reviewed on a regular schedule with no more than 10 years between reviews.
Effective Date of New Rules: July 1, 2026.

2026 Policy Development

The Commission's next step is to adopt updated policies to implement the new rules.

Discussion Drafts

Certification Course Catalog

In order to start building a course catalog that reflects the learning needs of Montana librarians, please submit proposals for learning opportunities you want to recommend for approval by the MSL Commission.

Drop-In Sessions

Two drop-in Sessions were held to gather feedback.

2023 Certification Program

Library Director Certification
Initial Certification

60 continuing education credits earned in a 4-year period

  • Library Administration Category: 30 credits
  • Electives: 30 credits in any category
Renewal after Initial Certification
  • 60 elective continuing education credits earned in a 4-year period
Trustee Certification
Optional

15 continuing education credits earned in a 4-year period

  • Library Administration Category: 10 credits
  • Electives: 5 credits in any category
Staff Certification
Optional

60 continuing education credits earned in a 4-year period

  • Library Administration Category: 5 credits
  • Library Services to the Public: 5 credits
  • Collection Management and Technical Services: 5 credits
  • Technology: 5 credits
  • Electives: 40 credits in any category
Certification and Continuing Education Handbook (2023)
Track Continuing Education Credits in ASPeN

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