Massachusetts Public Library Trustees Handbook
| Chapter 4. Policy Making | ||
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Table of Contents
Policy making is one of the board's most important functions. The board establishes written policies to govern and guide all phases of library operation. Policy statements must reflect local conditions and needs, and express a true commitment to service and leadership. Some policies may be potentially controversial. Board members should be aware of policy rationale or revisions of policy that could cause public inquiry, in order to respond to questions from the community. Trustees may be called upon to defend or interpret policies to the public or governing officials.
Every trustee should have a copy of the policy manual and be completely familiar with the rationale for each statement. A thorough understanding of all policies is essential in order to knowledgeably adopt new policies or revise existing ones. What is a policy?
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A broadly stated guideline for actions and decisions
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Any governing document which describes a principle or plan
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A general statement for supporting library operations, rules, regulations, and use
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The basis for procedures, but not a detailed course of action
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A statement in accordance with the purpose and legal structure of the library
Benefits of Policy
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Supports the overall library plans, goals and objectives
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Guides library director and staff in implementation of board judgments
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Provides direction and consistency in day-to-day service to community and library operation
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Reduces uninformed decision making and crisis responses to problem situations
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Protects the rights and assures fair treatment of all patrons and staff members
Sample policies on several topics are available from your regional library system or the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
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| Massachusetts Laws Pertaining to Libraries |  |
Library Policy Manual |