West Springfield
Board of Library Trustees
Thank you for expressing interest in serving as a trustee of the library. A seat opens when a trustee's term expires or there is a resignation. When either occurs, all applicants will be given consideration by the Mayor who brings names to the attention of the City Council. Following a vote, the mayor appoints new trustees who are sworn into office by the town clerk.
The Town of West Springfield now has a convenient Google Form for those who wish to serve on various boards, including the Library Board of Trustees. Interested parties can click on this link: Request for Appointment for Volunteer Boards/Committees and select "Library Board of Trustees" from the drop down menu.
DESCRIPTION:
Members of the West Springfield Board of Library Trustees:
- Are appointed by the mayor and approved by the Town Council to serve a 3 year term
- Attend monthly Board meetings; reviewing, minutes, agenda, and prepared materials in advance
- Act in cooperation with the Director of the library and understand general library operation
- Serve on subcommittees; participate in conferences and library legislative events
- Establish, review and update Trustee bylaws and library policies annually or as needed
- Is informed about, advocates for, and represents the library and its services in the community
Participates in ongoing strategic planning - Adheres to the Massachusetts Public Meetings Laws
- Supports basic library tenets such as: Intellectual Freedom, Freedom to Read, Confidentiality of Patron Records, Library Bill of Rights, and the Public's Right to Information
- Actively participates in library related workshops and activities by Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and other library professional organizations
- Becomes aware of local, state and federal library laws and issues, taking action when appropriate, and contacts local and state elected officials as needed
- Abides by majority decisions reached by the Board and publicly supports these decisions
- Keeps up with current library trends and practices through:
- Reading the literature
- Attending professional meetings
- Visiting other libraries
- Talking to trustees from other libraries
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Commitment to provide the best possible library service for the community
- An abiding interest in the library and the community
- Support for local, state, and national library organizations, joining those deemed most appropriate
- Readiness to devote time and effort to the duties of trusteeship
- Ability to work with people, lead meetings, and communicate effectively