As you being to read this Knowledge Base, it is important to understand that there are four basic methods by which a library district can be created or expanded:
- Establishment. In an establishment project, a library district is created where none existed before. There are three possibilities for establishment:
- A district is created where no library currently exists (the new district may start its own library, or it may contract for services with another nearby library);
- A city library becomes a district library, usually comprising the area within the city limits and an area around the city; or
- Two or more city libraries work together to form a district consisting of their cities and the contiguous2 untaxed area between and around the cities. All establishments are created by an election of the registered voters within the proposed district. [See I.C. §§ 33-2702 through 33-2706.]
- Annexation. In an annexation, an existing library district adds contiguous unserved territory to the district. In this Knowledge Base, we will use the term annexation only when a district is adding territory that is not served by another tax-supported library. Annexations can occur through an election or through a petition. [See I.C. §§ 33-2707 through 33-2708.]
- Combination. A library district may add a city that operates a city library, which chooses to become part of the district. In addition to having a different legal process, the combining of multiple library policies and procedures can complicate the administrative and political processes involved in this kind of project. [See I.C. §§ 33-2705 and 33-2709.]
- Consolidation. A consolidation occurs when two or more contiguous library districts combine to become one larger district. This can be carried out by a vote of the library boards and by an order from the county commissioners. An election is not necessary. [See I.C. § 33-2711.]
Each type of project will require a different level of involvement and will present different kinds of challenges. As we work through the districting process in the following articles, we will illustrate the difference in approach that each type of project may require.
2 Contiguous: having a common boundary or edge; abutting; touching; adjacent.