Library Trustees

 Trustee Basics

• Most Iowa public library boards have the authority to hire and evaluate the library director; adopt library policies; shift budget funds from one line item to another; approve library expenditures and more.  See trustee job description below.
  
• One of the best things you can do as a trustee is to read your library ordinance.  
• Changing the make-up, manner of selection or authority of a library board must be done through a referendum (Iowa Code, Section 392.5).   For more information, see the Iowa Library Trustee's Handbook. 

Iowa Library Trustee's Handbook, 2009

• Published by the State Library to give trustees a basic understanding of their responsibilities and power.
• Contains useful, practical information about developing policy, the board/director relationship, funding, intellectual freedom, library laws and many other topics.
• Print your own copy (see below) or order copies for $6.00 each by e-mailing Fran Fessler.
  

Board Orientation

In Service to Iowa, #16. *(R,3) states "The library director conducts an orientation program for each new board member and provides them training that includes the Iowa Library Trustee's Handbook."  Use the resources on the left to orient your board.

Electronic Mail List - Trustees

• Receive via e-mail, library news, trustee workshop announcements, and information on topics of interest to library board members.  Sponsored by the State Library.
• Subscribe or unsubscribe at any time by completing requested information at http://lists.silo.lib.ia.us/mailman/listinfo/trustees