Welcome to the Washington Public Library Trustee Support Page
Congratulations on your appointment as a trustee of your public library. Thank you for your willingness to work to provide exceptional public library service to all residents. The board of trustees ensures that the community's library remains strong, vibrant and relevant to users with a wide variety of needs, hopes and dreams. The library is open and welcoming to all, serving the educational, recreational and information needs of its community. Its roles in educational support, family literacy, economic development and as a community partner cannot be overstated.
This resource is designed primarily for governing library boards of trustees and library directors, but it also may be useful to advisory library boards, Friends of Library groups, and other library supporters. It is intended to:
- Give in-depth information about critical issues facing library trustees;
- Provide guidance on carrying out the complex responsibilities of a board member;
- Show examples of best practices;
- Supply additional resources for further consultation.
Library trustees freely contribute their time and energy to a board because they believe in the importance of free and strong public libraries. Thank you for your leadership, service and dedication to your community.
The Washington Public Library Trustee Guide provides an in-depth discussion of the major issues, laws, and responsibilities that library trustees will need to know about as they guide their libraries. To navigate through the materials, please click on the buttons and drop-down menus in the left panel. For more information or for consultation services, please contact Jeanne Williams, Public and Tribal Library Consultant, at jeanne.williams@sos.wa.gov or by calling or texting 564-233-5998.
Please note that this Resource Guide should not be used as a source for legal advice. Library boards should seek legal counsel to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.