Washington State Library Media Endorsement

Students interested in pursuing careers as teacher librarians in Washington State must hold a Washington State teaching certificate and must acquire a Library Media Endorsement.

At the University of Washington there are two ways to earn the endorsement. One way is by completing specific coursework within the Master of Library and Information Science program. The other is by enrolling in the Certificate Program for the School Library Professional.

Master of Library and Information Science
While in the Master of Library and Information Science program matriculated students may take specific coursework required for the Washington State Library Media Endorsement. Out of the 63 quarter credits required for the MLIS degree, 45+ credits are specifically required to earn the Library Media Endorsement. For more information on the required coursework required please click here.

The Library Media Endorsement requirements in the MLIS program provide preparation in these areas of competence:

  • Integration of information technologies with essential academic learning;
  • Needs assessment, evaluation, and selection of diverse literature, media and information services;
  • Understanding and utilization of existing and emerging information technology;
  • Social, ethical, and legal implications of information technology;
  • Management of library media program-services and facilities;
  • Theories and accepted principles of standard systems of cataloguing, process, and classification.
  • Research and library applications in the curriculum.

MLIS students who have a teaching certificate and would like to add the Washington State Library Media Endorsement to their teaching certificate should review the application instructions and required forms and contact the MLIS Academic Advisor with any questions.

MLIS students who do *not* have a teaching certificate, but would like to learn more about their options for school library work, should read the School Library Media Frequently Asked Questions and contact the MLIS Academic Advisor with any questions.

Certificate Program for the School Library Professional
The University of Washington Professional and Continuing Education division offers a separate Certificate Program for the School Library Professional that requires less course preparation. This 25-credit program combines online learning and summer residency courses. Requirements for the Certificate Program may be pursued through the UW Professional and Continuing Education. More information available at http://pce.uw.edu/prog.aspx?id=1080