ALTAFF Resources for Trustees
There are typically two types of Trustee Boards - a governing board or an advisory board.
The Governing Board is either elected by the general population or is appointed by the city or town’s elected council. This type of board has full authority over the governance of the library. This Board hires the library director, sets policy, and works closely with the director in establishing and presenting the library’s budget to the city.
The Advisory Board typically exists where the library is a city department, the library director is hired by the city, and the library director reports directly to the city manager or mayor. The Advisory Board typically has less governing authority though it may be an appointed or elected Board. By law in most states, this Board still has responsibility for policy setting, but does not have responsibility for the budget or the direct oversight of the library director.
In both cases, the library Board of Trustees works with the library administration in planning and goal setting for the library. Explore the links at left and in the Trustee Zone (ALTAFF Trustee section members and Trustee Board affiliates only) for information and resources specifically for Trustees. Note: The Trustee Zone will launch in August, 2009.