General Questions
Who do I contact if I have questions?
- Submit an MSL Support Ticket (OKTA login required).
- Email: MSLServiceDesk@service.mt.gov
- You may also contact the MSL Continuing Education Coordinator or your consultant.
Where can I find information about the new rules and policy?
- Visit the MSL Certification Knowledge Base.
- Subscribe to the MSL Continuing Education Newsletter.
When do the new rules take effect?
July 1, 2026.
What are the main differences for directors, staff, and trustees?
- Directors: Certification required.
- Staff: Optional certification.
- Trustees: Board-level continuing education requirement.
Library Directors
What does ARM 10.102.1160 require?
- Library directors must earn and maintain MSL certification.
- Credits must come from the approved course list.
I’m a new director and don’t have a certificate—what should I do?
- You have two years from hire to complete your initial certificate.
- Certificates (initial and renewal) are valid for five years.
- All required courses are available in MSL Learn (OKTA login required).
I already have credits in ASPeN. What now?
Contact the Continuing Education Coordinator to map out your renewal plan.
Will ASPeN be used after June 30, 2026?
No. ASPeN becomes reference-only for credits and certificates earned before June 30, 2026. The event calendar and library directory will continue to be maintained in ASPeN.
How do I track credits starting July 1, 2026?
- Login to MSL Learn.
- Badges and completion certificates are issued automatically, and all activity is logged in your profile.
- Watch short how-to videos to learn how to get started with MSL Learn.
Library Staff
Are staff required to earn certification?
- No, but staff may pursue certification voluntarily.
- Staff may also access all MSL Continuing Education trainings.
What happens to my ASPeN credits?
- Credits earned through June 30, 2026 will be archived.
- You may request your record via an MSL Support Ticket after July 1, 2026.
How do I track credits now?
MSL Learn manages all credits and certificates beginning July 1, 2026.
What if I’m not pursuing a certificate?
Ask your director how to document any local continuing education requirements.
Can I audit MSL Learn courses?
- Guest access is available for many MSL Learn courses.
- View recorded webinars on the MSL YouTube Channel.
Library Trustees
Does the new rule and policy apply to trustees?
- The rule and policy apply only to directors.
- Trustees may voluntarily earn a certificate.
- Boards must complete at least three hours of continuing education annually.
What happens to trustee ASPeN credits?
- Archived after June 30, 2026.
- Request records via Support Ticket.
Certification Program Details
Where can I find the Certification Policy?
The Certification Policy outlines requirements and approval processes.
Where can I find the Course of Study?
The Course of Study document outlines all required learning areas.
How is the Course of Study different from past requirements?
It replaces broad credit categories with a defined learning pathway aligned with essential knowledge.
Initial Certificate Requirements
- Complete 20 credits within two years of employment.
- Valid for five years.
Renewal Certificate Requirements
- Complete 60 credits within five years.
- Valid for five years.
What is the Course Catalog?
A list of MSL Commission‑approved courses.
