Why do you need a library board? Return to Table of Contents
A library board is created by law to act as a citizen control or governing body of the library. In Utah, the law is clear that municipal and county authorities must appoint a lay board of directors to oversee public library operations. The board is answerable to the governing body that appoints them and to the citizens they represent. Over 500 citizens in Utah serve on library boards.
Responsibilities of the board
Members of a library board are often referred to as trustees. The main responsibilities of a trustee include promoting the mission of the library, setting appropriate policies for library services, advocating for library issues, overseeing public funds and working to retain a qualified director.
Director and board: partners for library service
The library director is a crucial partner to the board in planning and administering library service. The librarian's training and expertise is applied to administrative responsibilities and the day-to-day operations of the library. The board serves as the eyes and ears of the community and provides invaluable guidance for planning library service.
Board housekeeping
Every library board should establish bylaws, a set of rules that define the structure and function of the board and its operational procedures. These bylaws should be approved by the local government authority and become a part of local ordinances.The board chair and director are responsible for ensuring that board appointments are kept current and reported to the State Library. All new appointees should receive an orientation and periodic refresher training is recommended for the whole board. Board members should be encouraged to attend training and workshops sponsored by the State Library, ULA, and other library organizations.
Resources
Comparison of Roles & Responsibilities. Utah State Library
Board Orientation
Sample bylaws
Wisconsin
Recommendations from the Illinois Trustee Fact file, p. 14.