Trustee Resources

https://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/trustees/index.html

Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State 2018 edition

The New York State Library recently announced  the release of the 2018 edition of the Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State. The new handbook is now available online on the New York State Library’s website at: https://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/trustees/index.html

The State Library’s Coordinator of Statewide Library Services and Director of Library Development Carol A. Desch expressed deep appreciation to co-authors Jerry Nichols, Palmer School of Library and Information Science, Long Island University, and Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, Mid-Hudson Library System for their leadership in working with the library community to update this invaluable, trusted resource. “Forward-looking, informed trustees are needed to guide their libraries and this useful handbook provides trustees with the necessary tools to steer their libraries and communities in a positive direction,” said Ms. Desch.

Mr. Nichols noted that the 2018 edition of the Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State is the continuation of a decades-long effort to provide New York State’s 6,000-plus library trustees with a readable and concise reference to assist them in the performance of their duties. “The demand for up-to-date information for our state’s public library trustees prompted us to publish a new print version of the Handbook to include the many significant changes in library regulations and best practices formulated over the past few years by the State Education Department and the Office of the State Comptroller. Together with the online version of the Handbook and the many webinars available on the State Library website, trustees now have a solid foundation to help them perform their duties and to best serve their library and their community.”

Building a Board that Works

On December, 7th 2015, Clinton-Essex-Franklin Library System, with the generous support of the Adirondack Foundation, presented the “Building a Board that Works” workshop with Andy Robinson at Plattsburgh Public Library. The workshop focused on designing and evaluating a board, the separation of powers between a board and staff members, financials and financial management, board agreements, and running effective meetings. Below are some of the resources provided by Mr. Robinson:

Building a Board that Works Packet
Canoochee Board Agreement
CMLC Board Agreement
Dogwood Board Nominations

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