About CPLA

About the Certified Public Library Administrator Program

Thank you for your interest in the CPLA Program.  The difficult decision was made to sunset the program and unfortunately, we are no longer accepting applications.  Please contact the CPLA Administrator with questions.

The Certified Public Library Administrator program is a voluntary post-MLS certification program for public librarians with three years or more of supervisory experience.

The Process

  • Complete the application 
  • Submit the fee of $250 for ALA members
  • Become a candidate (application reviews are quarterly)
  • Complete four core and three electives within 5 years – CPLA Cources
  • Submit Course Completion Forms with fee of $60 per competency for ALA members
  • Complete the final review
  • Enjoy the CPLA designation (for 5 years until you…
  • Re-certify

Candidates complete seven courses – four core and three electives of their choice.

CPLA certification will enable public librarians to:

  • Further their professional education and development.
  • Move to a higher level of practical professional experience.
  • Improve career opportunities through professional expertise.
  • Demonstrate to colleagues, trustees and board of directors, patrons and the wider information community that the certified person has acquired a nationally and professionally recognized body of knowledge and expertise in public library administration.
  • Improve the quality of library service through the provision of practical knowledge and skills essential to successful library management.

Focus: The Point of CPLA, an article by CPLA graduate Ceci Marlow