Massachusetts Public Library Trustees Handbook
| Presenting the Budget | ||
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Chapter 7. Budgeting and Financial Management |  |
A budget presentation is actually a political negotiation with town or city officials to determine the exact scope of programs and services to be offered. Trustees must be thoroughly prepared to participate in presenting the budget: to explain, to justify and to negotiate. The library must be seen as a basic community and information agency, not just an intellectual or recreational frill. Trustees are the front-line defenders of the public's right to know and thus should actively seek support for adequate library funding.
Don't wait until budget time to let the municipal officials know how funds are used and what you need! Throughout the year point out the successes, the services, and community response. Remember, testimonials and relevant statistics are usually much more persuasive than demands.
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Invite officials to special programs, receptions and library activities.
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Offer library reference service and assistance to local government officials and departments.
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Send officials copies of letters of appreciation, awards, staff accomplishments and special new articles.
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Use Friends and community supporters to promote the library budget.
Publicizing the Budget
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Tell the community what the current funding level will accomplish. Inform the community about the value received from library funding.
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Let the public know how budget cuts may have affected your program.
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Use publicity before and after the budget process: brochures, newsletters, newspapers, and community meetings. Post information on your library's web page.
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| Budget Preparation |  |
Budget Implementation |