Examination of the Certification System for Library and Information Professionals: A Comparison of the Certified Professional Librarian and Nursing Systems in Japan

Abstract

Certification systems for library and information professionals act as evidence of knowledge and skills and play an important role in improving skills by serving as a target for continuing professional development (CPD). Of these, the design of certification requirements and education systems is crucial. The purpose of this paper is to compare the Certified Professional Librarian (CPL) with the certification system for nursing in Japan, and to clarify the differences in certification requirements and educational methods through qualitative content analysis of the literature. The certification requirements and educational methods of Certified Nurse Specialist (CNS), Certified Nurse (CN), and Certified Nurse Administrator (CNA) were clarified. Finally, the implications for the CPL system were discussed: (1) A system that facilitates selection based on specialization, (2) Difference of requirements in new and renewal certification, (3) Collaboration with educational institutions for curriculum organization.