Libraries are typically formed as special purpose governments focused on providing access to information for citizens. As such, the approach to the financial management requires a different perspective than most local governments.

The Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia has created an online certificate program to meet this unique need. The program is comprised of six courses. Content includes budgeting, accounting, internal control, financial policies, purchasing, and payroll.

The purchasing course will focus on topics important to the purchasing process from determining needs to receipt of purchased goods and services.

The course is comprised of self-study which includes required reading, recorded webinars, tutorials and review questions.

The participant is required to pass a final exam.

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• list the components of the purchasing cycle

• recall the critical components of solicitations

• recognize importance of purchasing rules and regulations

• recall the legal requirements of purchasing and contracting