By John Thompson, Director – IFLS Library System One of the primary authorities granted to the Library Board is the management of the library’s budget. Your financial responsibilities are referenced in a variety of subsections within Wisconsin State Statute section 43.58. Key Statutory References Exclusively control the expenditure of all monies collected, donated or appropriated […]
Developing and Managing the Library’s Budget Read More »
On June 9, the NLS and OWLS Merger Exploration Committee held its first meeting. Composed of system directors, system board presidents, and two library directors from each system, this team is tasked with researching the critical questions surrounding a potential merger. Ultimately, the committee will gather information, seek input, and make a final recommendation on whether moving forward is the best path. For a deeper look at the roadmap, you can review the Process Phases.
NLS and OWLS Merger Exploration: Process Kick-off Read More »
By Rebecca Scherer, DirectorManitowoc-Calumet Library System One of the most important responsibilities of a library board is hiring a qualified library director. Equally important, however, is the board’s responsibility to evaluate the director’s performance on a regular basis. Although many public libraries receive human resources support from their municipality, the responsibility for conducting the director’s
Evaluating Library Director Performance: A Key Board Responsibility Read More »
After nearly two weeks of closure due to flooding, the Shiocton Public Library has reopened, offering the community a sense of normalcy and a welcoming space to gather. Remarkably undamaged, the library is serving as a steady resource for residents navigating cleanup and recovery.
Shiocton Library Back Open After Historic Flooding Read More »
Public libraries have long been pillars of learning, access, and community connection—but in today’s digital world, their value is sometimes questioned. As a library trustee, it’s important to be ready to address common concerns about relevance, funding, and usage.
Advocating for Your Library Read More »
Libraries have embraced the motto “more than just books” for decades. Whether highlighting digital collections, offering printing and faxing services, providing public computers, or delivering programs for all ages, public libraries have long understood how to meet community needs beyond physical materials.
Library of Things and Other Non-Traditional Items Read More »
By Hannah Good Zima, Outreach Coordinator Nicolet Library System Over the last several years, public libraries have seen a significant increase in “First Amendment audits.” These audits involve an individual’s right to film in any public building. They test that right by going into public spaces and recording videos. Based on their output, their goal
Filming in the Library Read More »
By Bradley Shipps, DirectorOutagamie Waupaca Library System There are 381 public libraries in Wisconsin with 467 local outlets, and every single one of them belongs to one of fifteen regional public library systems. System membership comes with many benefits that strengthen a local library’s ability to serve its community beyond what it can accomplish with
Benefits of Wisconsin’s Public Library Systems Read More »
By Marla Sepnafski, Director, Wisconsin Valley Library System Determine Who Will Screen Applications and Conduct Interviews The board must decide who will participate in the hiring process—whether it will involve the full board, a designated board committee, municipal HR staff, library system staff, or others—and what their roles will be. Questions to clarify include: Will
Tips for Hiring a Public Library Director Part 2 Read More »
By Marla Sepnafski, Director, Wisconsin Valley Library System Selecting the right person to lead a public library is one of the most important responsibilities of a library board. The director is not only responsible for managing the library but also for working collaboratively with the board, engaging with the community, and advancing library services. Because
Tips for Hiring a Public Library Director Part 1 Read More »
