THE CARE AND FEEDING OF A GOOD BOARD
Make sure that prospective trustees know what the job entails before they are elected or appointed.
• Have on hand a trustee job description and a realistic estimate of the time they will be required to spend.
Help new trustees become familiar with all aspects of their responsibilities quickly.
• Provide a library tour and written orientation packet; although this is
primarily a board responsibility, the director often shares the task.
Encourage trustees to attend any state or regional trustee programs.
• Provide trustees with information about consultants/resources available.
• Encourage trustees to attend WMRLS Welcome Aboard program.
Keep the board informed about important issues.
• Avoid surprises whenever possible.
Interpret professional and political trends for the board.
Provide trustees with concise written reports; charts, statistics, legislative information, etc. often provide trustees with valuable public relations tools.
Administer the board's policies with tact and diplomacy.
Agree to sometimes disagree. The board's first responsibility is toward the public, to provide adequate and satisfactory library service; sometimes the board's decisions are inconvenient to staff.