Sam Houston State University

Library Certification Program

FAQ

Q: What are the requirements for becoming a school librarian in Texas?

A: To become a school librarian in Texas, you must have a valid K-12 teaching certificate and two years of classroom teaching experience from a public school or a TEA-accredited campus institution. In addition, you must have a Master's degree from an accredited university or earn a Master's degree in Library Science through a specific process, complete 24 hours in a Higher Ed School Library program, including a 160-hour practicum, and pass the School Librarian's TExES (Texas Examination of Educator Standards).

Q: Can I become a school librarian in Texas without a Master's degree?

A: No, a Master's degree is a requirement for becoming a school librarian in Texas. You must have a Master's degree from an accredited university or earn a Master's degree in Library Science through a specific process.

Q: What is a school librarian certification?

A: School librarian certification is a professional certification that allows a person to work as a school librarian in Texas. Librarians are eligible for this certification if they meet the requirements for being a school librarian, including passing the TExEs.

Q: What is the School Librarian's TExES?

A: The School Librarian's TExES (Texas Examination of Educator Standards) is a test that measures the knowledge and skills required for a person to become a certified school librarian in Texas. It covers topics such as library administration, collection development, information resources and services, and teaching and learning.

Q: Can I take the School Librarian's TExES without completing the 24-hour Higher Ed School Library program?

A: No, completing the 24-hour Higher Ed School Library program, including a 160-hour practicum, is a requirement for taking the School Librarian's TExES.

Q: How can I find a Higher Ed School Library program in Texas?

 A: You can find a list of approved Higher Ed School Library programs in Texas on the Texas Education Agency (TEA) website. The website provides information about the program, including the institution offering the program and contact information.

Q: Is classroom teaching experience a requirement for becoming a school librarian in Texas?

A: Yes, you must have at least two years of classroom teaching experience from a public school or a TEA-accredited campus institution to become a school librarian in Texas.

Q: Can I become a school librarian in Texas if I have teaching experience from a private school?

A: No, teaching experience from a private school does not meet the requirement for becoming a school librarian in Texas. You must have at least two years of classroom teaching experience from a public school or a TEA-accredited campus institution.

Q: Can I apply for a school librarian position at Dallas ISD while I am still completing the requirements?

A: Dallas ISD requires that you have completed at least 12 hours in an accredited program prior to the district filing for a 1-year certification. 

Q: Can I use my school librarian certification from another state to work in Texas?

A: Yes, Texas recognizes school librarian certifications from other states. However, you may need to meet additional requirements or take additional coursework to be eligible for certification in Texas.

Q: Can I complete the required coursework for standard certification while working with Emergency Certification?

A: Yes, you can complete the required coursework for standard certification while working with Emergency Certification. However, it is important to note that Emergency Certification is a temporary option, and you must complete the standard certification requirements to continue working as a school librarian beyond the one-year period.

Q: What is the history of the Sam Houston State University (SHSU) Library Science program?

A: The SHSU Library Science program is a boutique program that is accredited by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL). It focuses solely on school librarianship and has been providing quality education in this area for over 20 years.

Q: Who is the SHSU Library Science program designed for?

A: The SHSU Library Science program is designed with professional teachers in mind who are working towards a Master of Library Science (MLS) degree or a 24-hour certification in school librarianship. The program is offered online, making it convenient for working professionals to complete their coursework.

Q: What are the starting options for the SHSU Library Science program?

A: The SHSU Library Science program offers multiple starting options throughout the year, allowing students to begin their coursework at a time that is convenient for them.

Q: What is the difference between the MLS degree and the 24-hour certification program?

A: The MLS degree is a comprehensive program that includes 36 credit hours and prepares students for a wide range of careers in library science. The 24-hour certification program is designed specifically for those who already hold a Master's degree and are looking to specialize in school librarianship.

Q: How many hours of coursework do I need to complete before I am eligible for a librarian position with Dallas ISD?

A: To be eligible for a librarian position with Dallas ISD, you must have completed 12 hours of coursework in library science. This is a requirement set by the district.

Q: What happens if I miss the summer deadline for the SHSU Library Science program?

A: If you miss the summer deadline for the SHSU Library Science program, you can still apply and begin your coursework in the fall. However, you will not be eligible for a librarian position with DISD until 2024.

Q: Can I still apply for the SHSU Library Science program if I already have a Master's degree?

A: Yes, if you already have a Master's degree, you can still apply for the 24-hour certification program in school librarianship at SHSU.

Q: Is the SHSU Library Science program entirely online?

A: Yes, the SHSU Library Science program is offered completely online, making it convenient for working professionals to complete their coursework while maintaining their jobs.

Q: Are there any prerequisites for the SHSU Library Science program?

A: No, there are no prerequisites for the SHSU Library Science program. However, students must have a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in order to be eligible for the program.

Q: Are there scholarships available for the SHSU Library Science program?

A: Yes, there are scholarships available for the SHSU Library Science program. Students are encouraged to reach out to the program director, Rose Brock, at rosebrock@shsu.edu for more information on available scholarship opportunities