Responsibilities of the Utah State Library Division Return to Table of Contents
The Utah Code has designated the State Library Division as "the library authority for the state" and has given it the responsibility for "general library services" (UCA 9-7-201). The State Library works on behalf of libraries and librarians to enhance library service. The stated mission of the Utah State Library is "to develop, advance, and promote library services and access to information". USL plays a key role in facilitating discussions on statewide issues, initiating regional planning, coordinating resource sharing, and helping library directors, trustees and local elected leaders.
There are three major programs within the Division: Library Development, Library Resources, and The Library for the Blind and Disabled. Within the organizational structure of Utah State government, the State Library is a part of the newly created Department of Community and Culture (July, 2005).
Responsibilities of the library director
The State Library is mandated to document the progress of library service statewide. To carry out this charge, USL is authorized to conduct surveys, collect statistics and planning documents, administer grant programs, and enforce selected library laws. In turn, the local library director is expected to comply with USL requests for information and to submit required reports and documents in a timely manner.
Examples:
ResourcesAnnual Report - meet deadlines for city or county jurisdictions Public Library Development Grant - expenditure report due 7/31 annually LSTA Grant Reports - meet established deadlines Board appointments and staff changes - report as they occur Library Plans - due 10/31 annually Technology Plan - due with Library Plan Internet Policy Updates - due every 3 years (next: 2007) Summer Reading Program Orders - meet established deadlines
Required Reports
About the State Library