The purpose of the voluntary certification and accreditation programs for public libraries and librarians in South Dakota is to encourage the ongoing development of quality library service in the state.
Voluntary CERTIFICATION application closed September 5, 2017.
The State Library is accepting voluntary ACCREDITATION applications from September 18 through December 15, 2017.
Questions about accreditation or certification should be directed to:
Kathleen Slocum, Continuing Education Coordinator, 605-773-8438
South Dakota Public Library Standards is a self-evaluation tool. These standards are intended to:
The South Dakota State Library accreditation committee will review all applications. Libraries will receive accreditation certificates at Legislative Day in January, in Pierre.
The manual is divided into three sections by level of accreditation:
Each section is then divided into the following categories:
Each standard is presented as a statement, allowing the library to easily determine whether it meets or does not meet the criteria.
Accreditation applications may be submitted September 18 through December 15, 2017.
Library accreditations reflect three calendar years.
The State Library recognizes public library directors and staff who update their knowledge and skills on a continuing basis. The goals of this program are to help library directors and staff acquire and maintain skills in order to provide better library service to their communities.
Certificates are awarded by the State Library during the annual SDLA conference in September.
Applicants must supply a diploma, transcripts, and/or approved contact hours form (below) for SDSL committee approval.
