Frequently Asked Questions for Providers

Why would I want to be a provider for the Certified Public Library Administrator Program?

Every reason is different. What we have heard is that it is an opportunity to participate in a national certification program in a library specialty. If you are already offering a course the meets the standard, approval provides you with an additional audience for your courses. Finally, if you are already offering a course that meets the standard, you may receive approval for two previous years of offering the course, meaning your students will qualify for completion of one standard even before they apply to become a CPLA candidate.

What does the American Library Association-Allied Professional Association require of providers?

In addition to the application, ALA-APA requires that providers guarantee that courses meet the requirements of each standard, minimize any barriers that would prevent a candidate from enrolling in a course, and offer the course at least once each approval year. Providers will also be responsible for giving students their “proof of completion” for each course. ALA-APA will send blank forms to the providers.

How often will provider reviews of applications be conducted?

Four times a year, at the American Library Association (ALA) Midwinter Meeting in January, in spring, at the Annual Conference in the summer and in fall.

• March, Friday of second week – Spring Review in April
• May, Friday of second week – ALA Annual Conference Review
• September, Friday of second week – Fall Review in October
• November, Friday of second week – ALA Midwinter Meeting Review

How much does the program cost course providers?

Course providers pay an annual application fee of $350 per course/standard to be reviewed. There are discounts for providers that have offered courses previously – call ALA-APA for details.

How must courses be offered?

Courses may be delivered online, at conferences, on campuses or in a combination of electronic and face-to-face formats.

Does ALA-APA recommend fees for courses?

No.

Is there an annual renewal process?

Yes, each year providers will submit a renewal application to regain approval.