Here is an overview of the difference in roles between the board of trustees and the library director.
| Board of Trustees | Library Director |
|---|---|
| Is completely informed about the financial status of the library. | Provides regular reports of budget status and expenditures at each board meeting. |
| Works with the library director to formulate a budget adequate to carry out the library’s goals and objectives, within any limitations of state law. | Prepares a suggested annual budget in consultation with staff and board. Supplies facts and figures to the board to aid in interpreting the library’s current and future financial needs. |
| Presents the budget to the funding agency, public officials, and the general public; explains and defends it. | Follows the budget process as it moves through the funding process. Works with the board in interpreting budget and financial needs of the library to public officials and the public. Provides leadership in supporting the budget. |
| Works to secure adequate funds for staff and services. | Identifies financial needs of the library and works with the board and staff for adequate funding. |
| Explores all ways of increasing the library’s income, tapping other sources and taking advantage of all available means of cooperation with other libraries. | Calls the board’s attention to ways of stretching the budget. Assists the board in cooperating with other libraries. |
Both the board and director are responsible for ensuring that complete and accurate records concerning finances, personnel, property inventory, and annual reports are on file at the library.