"Bad libraries build collections, good libraries build services, great libraries build communities." R. David Lankes
What does a library trustee do?
Establish a vision.
Trustees help establish a vision for the role of the library in our community. This vision sets the tone and direction for the future. Trustees help write the mission statement, which guides library policy and general management of the library.
Set policy.
Policy may seem dry on paper, but it is reflected in the day to day operations of the library. Policy decisions range from the hiring of library staff to implementing long range planning, to ensuring state guidelines and recommendations are reviewed and implemented.
Demonstrate Financial Responsibility.
The library is funded mostly through local property taxes. This means that the stewardship of library funds is acutely local and community focused. Trustees are accountable for being good stewards of library funds to ensure that the money is well spent on programming and services that will benefit the greatest number of library patrons.
My vision.
I love the library, and I want to help others find ways to love the library too. I want to make sure the library is a warm, welcoming place for everyone in our community. Libraries are the heart of any community, and it is a place where everyone can grow and become a little richer in experience and knowledge.
I want to see a better connection between the library and area schools. By improving this connection, it gets students and families in the door and creating a deeper connection to the community.
Improving access to library services by improving the library website would make it easier to find all of the fantastic programming and services that are already offered. I would like to make this a priority.
Lastly, I would also like to see hours that reflect the needs of the community. Having evening hours that allow students and working patrons to utilize the library more fully should be a priority.
Proposed policy.
I would like to propose the phasing out of library fines. Research has shown that library patronage decreases because of fines, and many libraries have found ways to forgive or eliminate fines to bring patrons back to the library. In addition, fines often disproportionately deter lower income patrons and children from utilizing library services. This is not equitable, and does not best serve the community.
***UPDATE***
Cook Memorial Library has decided to go fine free! This is excellent news because it shows that the library is attuned to the needs of the community during this difficult time. I am so pleased that this has become a reality for the future.
Financial expectations.
I believe in fiscal responsibility, and I am familiar with working within a budget. I promise to be a good steward of the library resources and do my best to ensure that funds are utilized responsibly.
I would also like to see an increased effort to pursue grants and donations from corporations and private citizens.