Certificate and Credential Stacking: A Creative Approach to Integrating Resource Sharing into the LIS Curriculum

Dedicated coursework for the field of resource sharing and interlibrary loan has traditionally not been made available in Library and Information Science (LIS) programs. Recent conversations among members of the resource sharing community, as well as research made available in recent years, point to a need for more focused education and training opportunities for practitioners. While many may recommend adding topics related to resource sharing to the MLS curriculum, there is a strong argument to create other educational opportunities for practitioners. There are many individuals in the field of resource sharing who are not required or compelled to pursue the MLS for their positions, thus incorporating resource sharing into MLS programs would not meet the needs of all practitioners. This paper will provide a brief history of library science education for necessary context, examine education and training opportunities that currently exist for individuals working in the field of resource sharing, and suggest opportunities to create new learning models. Note: This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in the Journal of Library Resource Sharing on December 19, 2025, available online at: https://doi.org/10.1080/26915979.2025.2591954