Virtual Members on Instruction Section Committees and Task Forces
As set forth in the bylaws, the Vice-Chair/Chair-Elect is the appointing authority of the ACRL Instruction Section (IS). The Vice-Chair/Chair-Elect may appoint virtual members to committees where it has been determined that virtual membership would be beneficial to the committee's charge and function. Virtual membership may be used to promote increased membership participation, communication, and productivity, and/or facilitate progress on projects.
The Vice-Chair/Chair-Elect for IS will determine the viability of virtual membership for any given committee and the extent to which it supports the committee's charge and function. Virtual membership will generally not be considered for committees that make financial decisions for the Section, or in which confidentiality is critical.
Virtual members will be appointed by the Vice-Chair/Chair-Elect in accordance with the ALA policy on virtual members (ALA Policy Manual 6.16). In making these appointments, the Vice-Chair/Chair-Elect will outline expectations pertaining to the nature of the virtual members' work relative to the other committee members and chair. Virtual members are expected to actively participate in the work of the committee, assuming all committee member responsibilities outlined in IS policy ("Responsibilities for Instruction Section Chairs, Committee Members, and Interns"). In accordance with ALA policy, virtual members are not required to attend committee meetings (ALA Policy Manual 4.5). They have the right to attend meetings, participate in debate, and make motions; however, they are not counted in determining the quorum nor do they have the right to vote (ALA Policy Manual 6.16).
Approved by IS Executive Committee, November 2005.
