What does the Library Board do?

The Board has three major roles:

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To Plan 

• The Board creates a Strategic Plan of Service that guides the operations of the library and assists in planning programs and activities prepared by library staff.

• The Board measures the results of the plan and reports on those results.

(Examples: participates in strategic planning workshops and evaluates strategic plans on a regular basis) 

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To Govern

• The Board ensures that the library is managed but does not manage the library.

• The Board demonstrates accountability to the funding Councils.

• The Board hires and evaluates a library manager.

(Examples: prepares annual budget for town council approval and participates in presentations to local and provincial elected officials)

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To Advocate

• The Board acts as a bridge between the community and the library.

• The Board promotes the library to the community and encourages everyone to use its collections, programs and services.

(Examples: attends library functions and participates in advertising campaigns to further the library profile in the community)

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How much commitment do I need to make?

• Monthly Meeting: The library board meets once a month on the third Wednesday of every month at 6:30 pm.

• Subcommittee Work: There are also various subcommittees of the board including personnel, finance, safety, and fundraising. Each member of the board is a member of at least one committee. 

• Executive Positions: Finally, there are three executive positions on the board including Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. These positions are up for nominations and renewal on a yearly basis.

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How do I join?

Town Council makes citizen appointments to agencies, boards and commissions, including Olds Public Library Board. Contact our library manager, Lesley Moody, lmoody@prl.ab.ca for more information.