The Estonian Librarians' Association as a Professional Qualification Awarding Body

Since 2005, ELA has been authorized by the Estonian Qualifications Authority to act as a awarding body for awarding professional qualifications in the field of librarianship.

Our main responsibilities as a qualification-awarding body include:

• Developing and updating professional standards for librarianship.
• Organizing the process of professional certification for librarians.
• Evaluating applicants’ competencies based on their education, work experience, and professional development.
• Issuing professional certificates that confirm the holder’s qualification level and expertise.

The certification system promotes continuous professional growth, supports the recognition of librarians’ skills, and strengthens the public image of the profession.

Estonian qualification framework aligns with the European Qualifications Framework, ensuring international comparability and transparency.

The professional activities of a librarian are defined at three levels:
Level 6 – a specialist operating within their core field;
Level 7 – a senior specialist who, in addition to professional work, manages processes and people;
Level 8 – a top-level manager who acts as a strategic leader and develops both library services and the field more broadly.

The Estonian Librarians' Association has issued over 1,000 professional librarianship certificates by 2025. This reflects the long-term impact of the qualification system and its important role in supporting professional development and ensuring quality standards in the field.