Chapter 16 Role of the State Library | 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" (Utah Code 9-7-201). The State Library works on behalf of libraries and librarians to enhance library service statewide. 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).
“Develop, Advance, and Promote
Library Services and Access to Information"Mission Statement of the Utah State Library
Responsibilities of the Utah State Library Division
The State Library plays a key role in facilitating discussions on statewide issues, initiating regional planning, coordinating resource sharing, and educating library directors, trustees and local elected leaders. Some of the specific programs administered by the State Library include:
- preservation and dissemination of state government information
- administration of federal and state grants
- compiling statistics on public library service
- developing standards for library certification
- providing consulting and training services for librarians and trustees
- coordinating Pioneer Online Library resources
- distribution of summer reading program materials
- supervision of bookmobile service
- provision of state and regional library services for the blind and disabled.
Responsibilities of Local Libraries
The State Library has a primary charge to document the progress of library service statewide. In order to meet this task, the State Library is authorized to conduct surveys, collect statistics and planning documents, administer grant programs, and enforce selected library laws. The local library jurisdiction is expected to comply with State Library requests for information and to submit required reports and documents in a timely manner. Some of the regularly scheduled reports that need to be sent to the State Library include: the annual statistical report; grant expenditure reports and evaluations; long-range plans and technology plans; Internet policy updates; orders for summer reading materials; and changes in library hours and directorship and board appointments. The State Library could not fulfill its mission without the cooperation of each and every local library.