Welcome to the MBLC's LibGuide with curated information to help Trustees serve their libraries. Your role as a Trustee is vital to the continued operations of your library. Your most important role as a Trustee is being a strong advocate and ally for your library.
Here are some other the duties you may carry out:
Your exact duties will likely be established by your municipality's charter and Trustee Bylaws. Use the resources throughout this guide to help you and your Board move forward in your duties and grow through normal operations and challenges. Your Board works and speaks as one voice, so communication with your fellow Board members is essential. Feel free to share any resources you find here with your Board and your Library Director, so everyone can be prepared to advocate for your library.
Using this Guide:
You may find the answers or resources you need on this page. Many links on this page may also lead you to more in-depth info. For more information on a topic, click any of the tabs at the top of the page to learn more. Can't find what you need? Contact us! Info is in the box below.
Remember:
The MBLC is here to help! Our services include curating these guides, trainings, consultations and answers to your questions that can be customized to your library and its needs. Reach out any time.
Welcome to your new role as a Library Trustee! Whether you are eager to hit the ground running or feel a bit overwhelmed by your new responsibilities, this guide will walk you through some basics to get you started.
The resources listed below will give you a primer on Library Trustee basics and essentials.
For more orientation basics, go to our New Trustees tab in this guide. Feel free to explore any part of this guide further to dive deeper or find answers to questions that commonly come up. If you can't find the answer to your specific question, please reach out with the information in the "Contact Us" box.
The MBLC provides research and resources for informational purposes only. What we offer does not constitute legal advice. Should any trustee have a specific issue of concern, the MBLC strongly recommends contacting an attorney for professional legal advice. The links below may help you in your search. They do not constitute an endorsement by the MBLC and are for informational purposes only.
The MBLC is always here to help. Sign up for our Trustees listserv for updates and collaboration with other Trustees throughout MA.
We are among many organizations that can help you become a more informed and involved Trustee:
Are you a Trustee with questions? Contact:
Al Hayden
Library Advisory Specialist
alysa.hayden@mass.gov
857-488-6545 (mobile)
617-725-1860 x250
Rob Favini
Head of Library Advisory & Development / Government Liaison
robert.favini@mass.gov
617-725-1860 x237
857-488-6590 (Mobile)