What You Do
While there are many types and sizes of libraries, all have a governing authority that manages the resources and provides accountability to constituents. Some jurisdictions have advisory boards, some have elected or appointed trustees, others have board members. The titles vary but the duties are essentially the same. Library boards can be as small as 5 members or as large as twenty.
“The only qualification you need to run for office is that you love your community.”
Bethany Hallam
Allegheny County (PA) Councilmember, At-Large
Responsibilities
Library board members are responsible for establishing and maintaining the vision and mission for the library, the hiring and firing of library staff, setting policy related to library operations, and providing accountability to constituents. Library board members report to the city/town council governing the jurisdiction.
Board members attend meetings, review materials, attend events, represent the library in the community and at the city council. In recent cases, library board members, acting as a part of a coordinated extreme right wing effort, have engaged in highly controversial activities including banning books and preventing reading events by certain groups.
Helpful Skills
Familiarity and passion for libraries. Solid communication skills. Time to attend meetings in the evening.