Advisory board members are individuals who are interested in the library and its service to the community. While the Advisory Board is a non-voting entity, members are asked to weigh in on library discussions and offer their opinions and expertise. Advisory Board members represent the general public and provide a much-needed perspective on topics as library users and patron representatives. Being on the Advisory Board allows individuals to become familiar with the library and all that it provides.
Briefly, the responsibilities of the advisory board are as follows:
- Provide general community feedback.
- Offer advice and suggestions about library services, programs, promotion, operations, and policy at library meetings or when visiting the library.
- Promote library programs and services to the community.
- Advocate for the library and its importance at the local, state and federal level, when appropriate. (This might be sending an email, writing a letter, or making a phone call.)
- Alert the library about any possible funding opportunities or grants.
- Potentially serve on committees to address specific library needs.
Once an advisory member feels comfortable and familiar with the library and its services, they may have the opportunity to move into a Board of Trustees position when one becomes vacant, if they are interested in doing so.