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Golden Rules for Board Members

  • Leave the actual management of the library to the library director. It is the librarian's responsibility to select books, employ the staff and supervise day-to-day operations. See Board Governance Model

  • After a policy or rule is adopted by the majority vote of the library board, do not criticize or re-voice your opposition publicly.

  • Respect confidential information that is protected by the Public Records Act - IC 9-340E http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/idstat/Title9/T9CH3SECT9-340E.htm Do not divulge information regarding future board actions or plans until such action is officially taken.

  • Observe any publicity and information policies of the board and library. Do not give information individually but refer requests to the librarian or appropriate representative to interpret policies.

  • Treat the library director and staff members in an objective manner. Under no circumstances should you listen to grievances of staff members or treat individual problems on your own. The library director is in charge of the staff and has administrative control up to the point where a grievance is presented to the library board.

  • Do not suggest hiring a relative or two members of the same family as library employees.

  • All rules and policies directed to the library director must be approved by a quorum of the board at a regular meeting. Even the chairperson should abide by this rule.

  • Do not hold board meetings without the library director.

  • Complaints from the public are the library director's responsibility. Continued dissatisfaction and problems should be taken up at the board meeting only if policy revision is necessary or legal ramifications are involved.

  • Assume your full responsibility as a board member. If you are unable to attend meetings regularly and complete work delegated to you, resign so that an active member can be appointed.

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