Massachusetts Public Library Trustees Handbook

Orient the new director and assist him/her with relocation. Provide help with school and housing information, and additional information on the library and the community. A subscription to the local newspaper is a valuable tool to acclimate the new library director.

Welcome the new director. News releases and photographic coverage should be arranged. Personal introductions to staff members, trustees, community representatives and local government officials should be scheduled promptly. An open house or reception hosted by the board is a standard courtesy.

A probationary period of three to six months allows time for the board and the director to develop a working relationship and to evaluate library administration. Early in this period some short- and long-term goals and expectations must be mutually agreed upon. Midway through the probationary period an informal review of the director's performance should be conducted. A final evaluation should be developed by the board and discussed concerning the decision to retain or dismiss the director. If performance is in doubt, problems should be documented carefully. Dissatisfaction should be recorded and discussed. The board should never retain a director if a majority of the members are convinced that no improvement is possible. If the board finds itself in this position, they should seek help from an outside impartial consultant. Consulting services are available from your regional library system and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. The board should consider contacting its municipal counsel in cases of possible dismissal of the director.