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.
• Order extra copies at $6.00 each by e-mailing Fran Fessler or print your own copy (see below).

Board Orientation

In Service to Iowa, #12 (Tier 1) states "The library director conducts an orientation program for new board members."  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