Wisconsin Public Librarian Certification

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Librarian certification for public library directors has been a part of Wisconsin law since 1921 when the legislature passed the first comprehensive state public librarian certification law. The concern was then, and continues to be, that the public libraries of the state be headed by qualified library personnel, assuring a high level of professional management and administration of Wisconsin's library resources, programs and services.

The current requirements for public librarian certification became effective November 1, 2004. These rules did not change the coursework required to receive Grade II or III certification, but changed the timeframe and sequence in which the courses must be taken. The rules do not apply to individuals previously certified.

NOTE: Word documents, with the exception of the signature and date, can be completed online.

CONTENTS

Application for Public Librarian Certification (Word)

Activity Report for Continuing Education (Word)

Annual Summation of Continuing Education Activities (Word)

Certification Manual for Wisconsin Public Library Directors

Certification Overview for Public Librarians

Continuing Education Validators and Consultants from Public Library Systems

Courses Applicable for Certification at Wisconsin Institutions

Wisconsin Administrative Code for Public Library Certification (pdf) (Chapter PI 6, Subchapter II)

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Terrie Howe, Certification & CE Coordinator
Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning
Public Library Development
125 S. Webster St., PO Box 7841, Madison, WI 53707-7841
(608) 266-2413; fax: (608) 266-2529
teresa.howe@dpi.wi.gov

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For questions about this information, contact Teresa D. Howe (608) 266-2413

Last updated on 6/26/2008 2:23:34 PM