Program Overview (PDF, 2.17 MB)

If you are interested in working as a library media specialist in K-12 schools, the University of Illinois Graduate School of Library and Information Science (GSLIS) offers a program that allows you to meet the requirements for the master of science (M.S.) in library and information science, while also pursuing the courses and training needed for certification as a "Library Information Specialist" in the state of Illinois. The M.S. is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) and is continuously ranked one of the best in the field. The requirements for school certification were approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) in 2001 and are in compliance with the most current Content Area Standards for Educators.  Please note: The Illinois State Board of Education can and may change the rules for teacher certification and endorsement at any time.  Candidates are responsible for meeting the rules that are in place at the time the application for certification or endorsement is submitted.

Depending on your background and what credentials you have already earned, there are several different paths toward library certification. The prerequisites for and outcomes of these different paths are outlined in the following table.

*If you hold an out-of-state teaching certificate, contact your local Regional Office of Education (ROE) for information on how to obtain an Illinois teaching certificate. For information about each state's school library certification requirements, go to the School Library Monthly website.

**The Middle Grades endorsement is required to work in a library in a building containing grades 5-8.  These courses may be taken on-campus at Illinois or through the Middle Grades Endorsement Online program offered by the College of Education. Students may also satisfy the middle grades endorsement through coursework taken at another university. See the ISBE website for pre-approved middle grade courses available at other Illinois and out-of-state universities.