Welcome to Your Library Board!
A Warm Welcome to New Trustees
Thank you for stepping forward to serve your community as a library board trustee! Your decision to join the board reflects a commitment to one of our community’s most vital institutions—a place where learning, connection, and opportunity come together for everyone.
We know that being a trustee comes with responsibilities that might feel new or even a bit overwhelming at first. You might be wondering about policies, budgets, strategic planning, and all the other aspects of library governance. That’s completely natural! The good news is that you’re not alone in this journey. You have fellow board members, library staff, and a wealth of resources to support you along the way.
This guide is designed to help you get oriented, understand your role, and feel confident in your contributions to the board. Your perspective, questions, and dedication matter tremendously. Libraries thrive when their boards bring diverse viewpoints, ask thoughtful questions, and stay connected to the communities they serve.
Trustee Education Requirement
Beginning January 1, 2023 all members of a board of trustees are required to complete a minimum of two hours of trustee education annually. (Education Law §260-d Board of trustees continuing education).
Trustee education compliance is tracked by the NYS Library through questions on the Annual Report for Public and Association Libraries.
Use the Self-Assurance of Trustee Education Activity Completion form for evidence of completion of the education requirement when a certificate of completion is not issued by the provider.
Roles & Responsibilities
Working Together: Roles & Responsibilities Guidelines
From the Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State (2023 Edition), this guide will define the differing roles of the Library Director, Trustees, and Friends and how they overlap to serve the library.
Upcoming Training
10 Things Every Library Friend or Trustee Should Know
Presented by Mary Beth Harrington, join this webinar to learn about the role and responsibilities of an effective library board member and how to be a true advocate for your library. Webinar recording | Webinar slides
Trustee Handbook Book Club – Next Level Trusteeship: Building an Effective and Impactful Board Culture
Join co-author of the Handbook For Library Trustees of New York State Rebekkah Smith Aldrich and friends for this fun and informative series! At each session, trustees will take a deeper dive on a topic relevant to their role and responsibilities as a library trustee.
Essential Resources for New Trustees
SALS Strategic Plan and Bylaws
While it might seem obvious, these local documents are essential reading. They’ll help you understand your library’s unique priorities, financial situation, and governance structure. Ask your library director for copies and don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything that’s unclear.
Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State (NYS Division of Library Development)
This is your go-to resource for understanding the specific legal responsibilities and duties of library trustees in New York State. It covers everything from fiduciary responsibilities to open meetings law, written specifically for our state’s requirements. Available free online at the NYS Library’s website.
The Public Library Trustee Toolkit (Library Journal & United for Libraries)
This accessible guide breaks down trustee responsibilities into manageable topics with real-world examples. It’s particularly helpful for understanding the relationship between the board and the library director, and how to navigate that partnership effectively.
New York Library Association (NYLA) Trustee Section
NYLA provides networking opportunities, regional workshops, and timely updates on legislation affecting New York libraries. Connecting with other trustees across the state can provide invaluable peer support and shared learning experiences.
Next Steps
Take your time exploring these resources—you don’t need to master everything at once. Consider attending a trustee training workshop, which are regularly offered throughout New York State. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to ask questions at board meetings and seek guidance from experienced board members.
Your community is fortunate to have you serving in this role. Welcome aboard!