Professional Development with ALIA

Professional development is central to a strong and sustainable library and information workforce. At ALIA, we are committed to supporting our members and others in the LIS workforce access learning and training opportunities. From students and early-career practitioners through to experienced professionals and leaders, ALIA provides current and practical professional development opportunities.

The offerings are designed to build skills and knowledge, support lifelong learning, and recognise professional and personal growth. This in turn strengthens and maintains a future-focussed library and information services sector for Australia.

ALIA Training

ALIA Training delivers high-quality, practical learning opportunities developed by and for the library and information workforce.
Our training programs includes self-paced courses that you can undertake at any time, as well as facilitated courses that run over several weeks at specific times. The courses cover a wide range of topics, from core professional skills to emerging areas of practice.

Training is delivered by experienced practitioners and subject-matter experts, ensuring content is relevant, current and grounded in real-world application. All ALIA Training courses align with the ALIA Skills, Knowledge and Ethics Framework for the Library and Information Services Workforce.

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Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Scheme

ALIA’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Scheme provides a structured framework for ALIA personal members to record and reflect on their professional learning.
The scheme supports members to take a purposeful approach to professional growth that aligns with their role, career aspirations, and the evolving needs of the sector.

Participation in the CPD Scheme enables ALIA professional members (Associate, Library Technician and Allied Field to receive recognition for their commitment to professional development through the attainment of the Certified Professional (CP) postnominal and Student and General members to receive a yearly Certificate of Participation

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ALIA Mentoring Scheme

The ALIA Mentoring Scheme is a formal, structured program that connects members through supportive, one-to-one professional relationships.
The scheme provides an opportunity to share knowledge, build confidence, explore career pathways and develop leadership capability - whether you are seeking guidance or offering your experience to others.

The scheme is flexible and inclusive and designed to assist those seeking opportunities for career and professional development and keen to widen their knowledge base and professional connections. With intakes opening in May of each year, the ALIA Mentoring Scheme runs from July to June of each year.

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Other Professional Development Opportunities

  • The Public Library Proficiency (PLP) program aims to support effective practice in public libraries and to build confidence and connection for participants. The training is intended as professional development for library staff that do not have any formal qualifications in library services, however, is open to all staff who are interested in improving and refreshing their knowledge, skills, and practice. If you're interested in taking this course, please email [email protected] 
  • Joining an ALIA Group or attending an ALIA Group event counts as Continuing Professional Development by supporting peer learning, professional engagement and the exchange of practical, real-world experience across the sector. Explore the ALIA Regional and Special Interest Groups here. 
  • Volunteer at the ALIA National Conference 2026! We're seeking energetic volunteers from anywhere in Australia who love engaging with large groups of people, can create a fun vibe for other delegates and become integral members of the team. You will be responsible for helping delegates have the best conference experience of their career. Find out more and apply here. 
  • Write for INCITE Online. INCITE is entering a new chapter as a dynamic, always-on digital hub, creating more opportunities to share timely stories, insights and professional perspectives from across the library and information sector. Contributing an article or pitch allows you to reflect on practice, research or innovation, share expertise with peers, and build your professional profile — all of which can be logged as Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Find out more here.