1. (1) A candidate seeking professional certification shall submit an application and credentials to the department for evaluation and approval.Proof of educational credentials may be made by submission of a sealed, certified transcript from a college or university or a statement from an authorized official of the accredited institution granting the credits.

2. (2) A certification level of 2 to 4 may be upgraded if an individual completes the requirements to achieve the next certification level as described in R 397.81 to R 397.84. To request a change in certification level an applicant shall complete the following:

   1. (a) Contact the department in writing describing the reason for requesting the change in certification level and to verify the name on the existing record.
   2. (b) Complete and submit an upgrade request form.
   3. (c) Submit a sealed and certified transcript to the department that demonstrates that the requisite degree has been obtained.
3. (3) Professional experience for level 1 certification shall be documented through completion and submission of an upgrade request form and by letters from current or previous employers verifying the job title or responsibilities assigned the individual and documenting the hours worked following receipt of the master of library science degree or its equivalent. The employer shall mail each verification letter to the department.
4. (4) An aggrieved applicant may appeal a certification decision as specified in R 397.92.

History: 2009 AACS.