Library Board Make-up
Consider the following characteristics and qualities of effective boards and board members when it comes time to appoint a new member to the board.
Qualifications
Some qualifications you might consider when seeking new board members include:
- A strong interest in the library and community
- Good public speaking skills
- Effective at leading meetings and committees
- Ability to negotiate with town/city/tribal managers and councils
- Good organizational skills
- Holds a current library card
- Capable of raising funds for the library
- Willing to devote time to board activities
- Has planning experience
- Awareness and appreciation of the library’s past, present and future role in our community
- Ability to gracefully handle opposition and make decisions in the best interest of the library
- Knowledgeable of political issues that may affect the library
- Willingness to learn about the library and its services
Diversity
A library board should be representative of the community. Membership should reflect:
- A variety of skills and experiences
- Various ages, ethnic backgrounds and income levels
- An equal mix of men and women
Officers
Library boards usually have a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Job duties will vary from board to board, but examples are provided in the handout below.
Handout for more info: