Trustee Tip: Use Library Standards Resources at Your Library
Last month we talked about strategic planning. This month we’ll look at the voluntary Wisconsin Public Library Standards program, which is a good tool to help you identify strengths, recognize areas for improvement, and assist you in gaining community support.
This is the sixth edition of the Public Library Standards manual, and is the result of intensive work by dozens of Wisconsin library professions. It’s concise and easy to use, and has a supplemental checklist that makes it even easier to track your progress.
Standards are clearly stated and are organized by level of service. The manual contains the following categories:
Statutory Requirements
System Membership Requirements
Governance
Administration of the Library
Funding
Staffing
Collections and Resources
Programs and Services
Public Relations
Access
Facility
Becoming familiar with this comprehensive manual and other website resources is great way to become a more effective trustee and advocate for your library.
Trustee Challenge
According to the Wisconsin Public Library Standards, which Tier is your library? We’ll pick one answer to feature in next month’s edition of The News.