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Bylaws for Library Boards

Written bylaws are the tools public library boards use to assure continuity and consistency for all their activities, whether legal, financial, or policy making. It is necessary for these bylaws to be approved by the policy making body, be it the municipality, county, or tribe.  These should not be in conflict with any local, state, or federal laws or regulation.  It is wise when revising bylaws or writing new ones to review those of other public libraries. 

Items that should be incorporated into bylaws include:

Purpose

• Vision
• Mission
• Goals

Legal Authority

• Appointments and Vacancies
• Terms of Members
• Authority

Parliamentary Authority

Conflict of Interest

Schedule of Meetings

• Regular Meetings
• Special Meetings

Executive Sessions

Quorum

Order of Meetings

• Agendas
• Meeting Announcement

Officers

• List of officers
• Qualifications
• Duties
• Election
• Terms

Committees

• Standing
• Special

Procedure for Amending Bylaws

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