Chapter 3 Code of Ethics | Next Chapter | Return to Table of Contents
The public expects and laws require that your performance will always be above question and for the public good. Boards should adopt a code of ethics to guide the conduct of its members and then review it whenever a new board member is appointed. A code of ethics reinforces a trustee’s obligation to refrain from taking any official action that produces a substantial financial benefit to the trustee, the trustee’s family, or an organization in which the trustee has a significant financial interest. Individual trustees may not negotiate or bid for or enter into a contract in which he/she has a direct or indirect financial interest.
Ethics for Utah Public Officers
Utah Code, 67–16, Utah Public Officers and Employees Ethics Act, sets forth standards of conduct for officers and employees of the State of Utah and its political subdivisions in areas where there are actual or potential conflicts of interest between their public duties and their private interests. The Code further prohibits public officers from improperly disclosing or using private, controlled or protected information, accepting gifts, compensation or loans, or requiring payment in exchange for approvals.
Ethics Statement for Public Library Trustees
Adopted by the American Library Trustee Association and the Public Library Association.
- Trustees must promote a high level of library service while observing ethical standards.
- Trustees must avoid situations in which personal interests might be served or financial benefits gained at the expense of library users, colleagues, or the institution.
- It is incumbent upon any trustee to disqualify himself or herself immediately whenever the appearance of a conflict of interest exists.
- Trustees must distinguish clearly in their actions and statements between their personal philosophies and attitudes and those of the institution, acknowledging the formal position of the board even if they personally disagree.
- A trustee must respect the confidential nature of library business while being aware of an in compliance with applicable laws governing freedom of information.
- Trustees must be prepared to support to the fullest, the efforts of librarians in resisting censorship of library materials by groups or individuals.
- Trustees who accept appointment to a library board are expected to perform at all the functions of library trustees.