Nearly all of Iowa's more than 500 public libraries are governed by boards of trustees. 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.
Changing the make-up, manner of selection or authority of a library board must be done through a referendum (Iowa Code, Section 392.5), and state law also requires public library boards of trustees to be gender-balanced. More information about a public library's governance can be found in the city-library ordinance.
Iowa Library Trustee's Handbook
Published by the State Library, the Iowa Library Trustee's Handbook is meant to give trustees a basic understanding of their responsibilities and power. The Handbook contains useful, practical information about developing policy, the board/director relationship, funding, intellectual freedom, library laws and many other topics.
The Handbook is viewable at the link below as a read-only Google doc that is searchable and printable. If you are not able to view the Google doc, please contact your technology administrator to request access to Google products. Then, contact your District Office to request an alternate version of the Handbook until access to the Google doc is granted.
Trustees: Stay Up to Date
The State Library offers options for trustees to stay up to date on issues related to Iowa libraries and State Library programs.
- Trustees Email List: the State Library sends occasional updates and important information related to trusteeship, including training opportunities. Trustees also receive the Monday Morning Eye-Opener, a weekly newsletter covering current topics related to the Iowa library community. Sign up for the Trustee Email List to receive updates.
- LibraryTalk Forum: LibraryTalk is an online forum for the Iowa library community from the State Library. Discuss library industry news and information on topics of interest to library board members. Get started with LibraryTalk.