Most library issues can be resolved at the local level if board members desire to base library policy on the prevailing wishes of the local community.
Family Friendly Libraries recommends the following steps for working effectively with local public library boards.
1. Review existing library policy.
2. Begin attending library board meetings regularly and develop a good working relationship with
board members.
3. Concerns involving library policy should be addressed with the library board. In most public
libraries, the board crafts policy and the staff simply implements it. Public library material
concerns not satisfied by library staff can usually be appealed to the library board of trustees.
4. Contact each member of the library board individually and state your concern in a calm,
constructive matter. A personal phone call is best, or a handwritten letter. Ask for their help in
resolving the issue to your satisfaction. Do not begin by sending an angry or insulting e-mail.
5. Address the library board during the public comment time before regularly scheduled meetings.
State your concerns clearly and calmly and provide a written copy of your comments to every
board member. Ask the board to enter your comments into the recorded meeting minutes.
6. Stay until the end of the meeting to speak individually with board members.
7. Consider alerting the media to your concerns, creating a website detailing the problems with
your library, and starting a petition.
8. If you have reached this point without resolving your concern, it is time to begin lobbying elected
officials and candidates.
Some library policies are dictated by state and federal law. For more information about state and federal laws that affect local library policy, click here.
Family Friendly Libraries Lobbying Guidelines
Guidelines for Working With Local Public Library Boards
