New librarian qualifications

My team are responsible for Computing/IT, E-Qualifications and Library awards -- but we don't develop many qualifications for librarians. So it was a particular pleasure to go forward for validation this morning for two new library awards: the Certificate in Applications of ICT in Libraries and the Advanced Certificate in Applications of ICT in Libraries. These new Professional Development Awards are designed for practicing librarians - of which there are 4000 in Scotland alone - although we're hoping that these awards will have international appeal.



This development has been led by Rhona Arthur of SLIC. The funding was provided by the Big Lottery Fund. Cleo Jones (Edinburgh Council) chaired the Validation Panel.

The validation event went well. The Panel felt that the level of the awards should be increased and it was agreed to re-title the awards: Diploma in Applications of ICT in Libraries and Advanced Diploma in Applications of ICT in Libraries. Although a number of conditions were placed on the proposals, we're confident that the awards can be approved by the end of June.

Angela Orr is the SQA contact for these awards.