In April 2010, the New York State Board of Regents challenged the library community to rethink the State's vast array of library services to ensure that they are aligned with modern expectations and the expanded functions needed in today's society, operate with improved efficiency, and are prepared for the future as an essential and vibrant part…

This handbook is designed to be used as a quick reference and to provide Nevada public library trustees with basic information for helping Nevada public libraries increase their services to meet the informational, educational, and recreational needs of the people of Nevada. The handbook consists of the following chapters: Take Time to Learn the…

Discusses the role of library governing boards and the environment of the rural public library in considering the functions of the rural library trustee. (FM)

Discusses the role of library trustees or board members in public library administrative decisions, examines managerial styles among public library directors, and describes situations that invite the board to micromanage. Sidebar "Success in 10 Steps" suggests ten steps to maintain a balance of power between staff and trustees. (LRW)

Designed for board members, this manual includes basic information applicable to any public library trustee. General information is provided and trustee responsibilities and duties are outlined. Appendixes include the North Dakota Public Library Law, a monthly report form, the library bill of rights, and a 16-item bibliography of books,…

This handbook defines the role of the trustee and identifies specific responsibilities and functions of the position. The step-by-step procedures with illustrations and checklists provide practical information and guidelines for librarian selection, planning and policy setting, facilities design and construction programs, funding and tax…

Compiled for newly installed library trustees and commissioners in the state of California, this publication provides guidelines designed to assist new board members in learning their jobs. Chapters discuss the nature of public library boards in California, board duties and responsibilities, board operations, special challenges for board members,…

Discusses the role of the public library trustees and considers characteristics that are important for successful library boards, including diversity, active participation, knowledge of laws that authorize creation of public libraries and describe the terms and duties of board members, selection and support of a good library director, and…

This revised edition reflects the changes that have taken place in the commonwealth's community of public libraries since the "Handbook" was published in 1991. This handbook is designed to give boards of trustees' basic information on the structure of library service in Virginia, with emphasis on their major areas of responsibility.…

Discusses the need for library directors to have micromanagement skills and presents five scenarios of problems that need micromanagement. Topics include knowing when to intervene, the need for strong personnel policies, relationships with councils and trustees, and the need for continuing education in management skills. (LRW)

This article on the training and information needs of library board members discusses ideas for becoming an effective library trustee. Topics covered include getting started, setting policy, managing money, hiring the librarian, working with the librarian, carrying out public relations, and organizational planning. Six sources are given. (EJS)

Surveys the history of the library board as a means of governance for public libraries, reviews research on the administrative effectiveness of library boards, identifies some of the major problems with the library board system, and proposes some possible solutions to these problems. A 26-item bibliography is attached. (JL)

This guide provides basic information as a reference manual for the use of officials appointed and elected to serve on public library boards throughout New Hampshire, and offers guidance to library governing boards in meeting the challenges of trusteeship of the state's public libraries. Topics covered include trustee qualifications,…

This guide was designed with three purposes in mind: (1) to build a greater awareness among trustees of library organization in the state and of the support and services available to them through that organization; (2) to stimulate greater interest in and knowledge of the many duties and responsibilities of library trustees; and (3) to encourage…

This manual for public library board members in Texas was written to help new board members learn how to delineate their powers and responsibilities and to contribute to the training of all board members. Information on issues concerning public libraries is provided, and fundamental issues involved in setting library policy and priorities are…