HomeMy WebLinkAbout_Kitchener Public Library - Description of a Board of Trustee position
POSITION
Kitchener Public Library Board Trustee
TERM
Normally four years, concurrent with term of City
Council. Mid- term appointments are shorter, lasting
until the end of Council’s term.
May apply for reappointment.
REMUNERATION
None; allowable expenses only
LEGAL
REQUIREMENTS
Must be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or
permanent resident, and a resident of the City of
Kitchener. May not be employed by the Library or by
the municipality.
TIME COMMITMENT
REQUIRED
Prepare for and attend regular meetings, which are
normally held on the 3rd Wednesday evening of each
month except July.
Serve on committees of the Board; frequency of
committee meetings generally does not exceed
once/month.
Represent KPL at library and community events as
needed; e.g., City Council meetings.
In the first year of the Board member’s term, 2 – 3
additional meetings will be scheduled for orientation.
GENERAL FUNCTION
OF THE BOARD
The Library Board establishes policies and appoints the
Chief Executive Officer who is also the Secretary-
Treasurer of the Board, and who administers the library
under the guidance of those policies.
SPECIFIC DUTIES OF
THE LIBRARY BOARD
TRUSTEES
Provide a comprehensive and efficient public library
service that reflects the community’s needs.
Employ and evaluate the ongoing performance of the
Chief Executive Officer.
Develop governance policies which define the
responsibilities and regulate the work of the Library
Board.
Establish and monitor long range goals and objectives
for Kitchener Public Library.
Understand the library’s programmes and needs of the
community in relation to the library.
Work with the Chief Executive Officer to prepare a
budget adequate to carry out the library’s goals and
objectives and present this budget to City Council.
Support and participate in planned public relations and
fundraising activities.
Be aware of local and other laws which affect libraries
and play an active role in initiating and supporting
beneficial library legislation.
Adhere to the Public Libraries Act, its regulations and
legislation.
Attend all Board meetings, committee meetings as
assigned. Attend outside meetings, workshops for
trustees and community events.
Ensure accurate public records concerning finances,
property, and annual reports are on file at the library
and with appropriate local, provincial, or national
bodies.
Be prepared to interact with provincial library agencies.
Report regularly to governing officials and the general
public.
Promote and advocate the value of public libraries in
the Kitchener community.
DESIRABLE
QUALIFICATIONS
AND EXPERIENCE FOR
TRUSTEES
Interest in the library, the community, and their inter-
relationship.
Knowledge of the community’s social and economic
conditions.
Demonstrated leadership abilities.
Aptitude for planning – both long and short range.
Ability to work in a political environment.
Skilled in marketing, media relations, advocacy,
fundraising, financial, business and/or literacy.
CONTACT FOR
ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION
Previous service on non-profit volunteer boards or
advisory committees.
Have internet access for emails and reports.
Mary Chevreau, Chief Executive Officer
Kitchener Public Library
Phone: 519-743-0271, ext 244
Email: mary.chevreau@kpl.org