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The view behind and ahead: implications of certification.
Bulletin of the Medical Library Association
|October 1, 1973
Summary
The Medical Library Association's (MLA) certification plan requires updates to remain relevant in health sciences librarianship. This study examines historical trends and member feedback to inform a new certification code.
Area of Science:
- Health Sciences Librarianship
- Information Science
- Professional Credentialing
Background:
- The Medical Library Association's (MLA) certification plan, established in 1949, has not significantly impacted employment or promotion in health sciences librarianship.
- The plan's provisions have had limited practical implementation and do not reflect the field's rapid evolution.
- External factors like the Medical Library Assistance Act and increased demand for health information have reshaped manpower needs.
Observation:
- Trends in credentialing and certification within health professions and library science are examined.
- Historical development of MLA's Code for the Training and Certification of Medical Librarians is reviewed.
- Member dissatisfactions with the current certification system are highlighted.
Findings:
- The existing MLA certification code is outdated and fails to address current professional realities.
- The code's historical significance lies more in stimulating educational programs than in direct certification impact.
- Member feedback indicates a need for a revised certification approach.
Implications:
- A new certification code is necessary to align with contemporary health sciences librarianship.
- Revisions should consider current trends in professional credentialing and member needs.
- The Ad Hoc Committee to Develop a New Certification Code plays a crucial role in this process.