The free, online Alternative Basic Library Education (ABLE) Program provides basic library knowledge and skills for staff members who have no formal education in library science. The ABLE program is not designed to replace university level training in library science and no college credit is offered.  Anyone interested in improving their knowledge of library basics is welcome to take these courses.   At the end of each course, once you successfully pass the final test, you will be prompted to print a Certificate of Completion. Tips for Maximizing Your ABLE Learning Experience

ABLE Courses

Collection Development Sequence

1. Writing a Collection Development Policy (1 contact hour)
2. Collection Assessment (1.5 contact hours)
3. Materials Selection (1.5 contact hours)
4. Collection Maintenance (2 contact hours)

Bonus Course:  Merchandising (1.5 contact hours) 

Technical Services Sequence

1. Introduction to Technical Services and Catalog Records (1.5 contact hours)
2. Introduction to Subject Headings (3 contact hours)
3. Introduction to Dewey Classification (2 contact hours)
4. Introduction to MARC Cataloging (1 contact hour)

Public Services Sequence

1. The Reference Interview (2.0 contact hours) 
2. Evaluating Reference Sources (2.0 contact hours)
3. Basic Reference Sources (3.0 contact hours)
4. Ethics and Public Service (2.0 contact hours)

SABLE Courses     Youth Services Sequence

 More information:

• Upon completing all three sequences of the ABLE program, any learner may
  request a program completion certificate from the Idaho Commission for Libraries via this survey.
• Click here for a list of states which accept these courses for their continuing education programs. 
• Questions or comments may be directed to the Idaho Commission for Libraries' Continuing Education Consultant at (208) 334-2150 or e-mail Shirley Biladeau.