Skip to Main Content

Library Media Specialists

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

Most states require that media specialists employed in public school systems have teaching certification. Many states require that they also have certification in library media from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (https://www.ala.org/aasl/about/ed/nbpts).

Individuals who are interested in specializing in the field of library media should become familiar with the specific educational and certification requirements of their particular state's department of education if they plan to work in a public school. Since the different certification requirements from state to state may present problems for people who relocate, many states have set up reciprocity agreements. Under such agreements, individuals who have achieved certification in one state may be able to receive certification in another state, despite different requirements. Private, parochial, or other nonpublic schools often have less specific certification requirements for their school employees.