Massachusetts Public Library Trustees Handbook

Chapter 7. Budgeting and Financial Management

Fiscal Responsibilities of Trustees

When dealing with public funds, financial accountability is imperative. Public library trustees are responsible for the securing and supervision of library finances. Neither the trustees nor library director can be expected to be lawyers or accountants, but they should be knowledgeable enough to be sure requirements are fully met. Responsibilities include:

  • Knowledge of the library's financial base and local, state, and federal allocating authorities for library funds

  • Knowledge of supplementary sources of revenue

  • Understanding the financial needs of the library's operation

  • Obtaining funds needed for maintenance, growth, and expansion

  • Understanding the basics of legal requirements and reporting requirements for library funding

  • Ability to manage trusts and endowment funds when appropriate.

The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and the regional library systems can provide guidance on regulations and practices affecting library finances. Additional assistance may be provided by state and national professional associations.

This Web site, and other programs of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, is funded in part with funds from the
Institute of Museum and Library Services, a federal agency that fosters innovation, leadership and a lifetime of learning.
Page last updated on 04/11/2012