Program Assistant
Lesley Harrington
Phone: 1-800-663-7051 OR (250) 387-5278

Contact Information
Public Library Services Branch
Ministry of Education
PO BOX 9831
STN PROV GOVT
Victoria, BC V8W 9T1
Phone: (250) 356-1791
Toll Free: 1-800-663-7051
[British Columbia only]
Fax: (250) 953-3225

The Community Library Training Program (CLTP) is a Web based distance education program offered by the Public Library Services Branch of the British Columbia Ministry of Education.

The purpose of the program is to help B.C. public library staff develop the skills they need to serve their communities. The program is also open to British Columbia public library volunteers, board members, and BC Indian Band staff and volunteers. Others interested in acquiring library skills may contact the program coordinator for information about other programs.

Eight online courses are currently available covering a variety of public library operations and services. The program is delivered entirely via the Internet. Each course takes up to four months to complete and requires an estimated minumum of ten - twenty hours of work (both on and offline) per week. Approximately 160 students complete CLTP courses each year and students are awarded a Community Library Training Program certificate after completing a core program consisting of 4 courses.

Students in the program receive support from experienced tutors, Public Library Services Branch consultants, and other students. Communication among participants takes place primarily using the course Web sites and email. Final grades in each course are based on three graded assignments, a quiz or test, and participation in online discussions and activities.

Required readings and course materials are included with each registration package or can be found online.