The Application

Starting your application: The Forms

You can download the combined Guidelines and Forms (.pdf) or separately download the Guidelines (.pdf) and Forms (.docx). You'll only need to submit the filled out Forms section as your application. Duplicate the forms as needed; no one expects you to use only one copy of Form D, for example! We suggest making a new document for your application and copying over forms as you need them.

Working on it: Tools

We know some parts of the application are difficult, so we've developed some tools to help you out. A points distribution spreadsheet (.xlsx) to help track and calculate points as you accrue them. It can be hard to keep track of everything in progress! We're also developing a Work Experience calculator (in progress) for figuring out credit for hours worked in a library.

Keep going: Examples

We're providing these downloads so you can refer to them if needed; they're not exactly tools, but they're helpful nonetheless.

Here's a sample application (.pdf) (for the old style of application; it will look a little different but the content is essentially the same). This is a real, filled-out application that was approved for Level 1 certification and should help give an idea of the expectations when filling out your own. Please use the latest forms and guidelines for your application; there have been updates and changes since the sample application was processed.

We also keep a list of past Paralibrarian classes (.pdf) in case you need to refer to it for class descriptions. 

Done at last: Submitting It

Applications should include all forms, points summaries, and certificates. They do not need to include the instructions/guidance document. Double-check that you have all necessary signatures. Compile it all into one document (.pdf or .doc) and email it to the Review Chair. You'll also print Form A and mail it to the Chair with your application fee: $20 for NHLA members and $50 for non-members. (If you're applying for a new level within 3 years of your last, there's no fee and you don't need to mail Form A.) Checks should be made out to NHLA-Paralibrarians. We regretfully cannot accept card payments.

You'll receive an email confirming receipt of your application within 7 days. Your application will be reviewed by the committee, then either you'll be contacted about any issues or it will be presented at the following board meeting for certification. The board meets every two months, so be patient!