Directors Do It All: Policies

Things to consider:

• What's the issue that requires a new policy?
• How would a new policy contribute to the accomplishment of the library's goals and objectives?
• What existing policies are related to or are affected by the new policy?  Are there any changes that need to be made to those existing policies?
• Impact of the policy (effects of enforcing, legal ramifications, additional costs in resources, staff, facilities, etc.)

Process:

• Director develops recommended policies
• Board discusses, revises (if necessary) and approves policies at a public board meeting in accordance with Open Meetings Law
• Director makes sure staff and public are aware of polices (keep in a binder at the circulation date and post on library's website)
• Board reviews policies on a regular cycle so all policies are reviewed at least every 3 years

Helpful information for Meeting Minimum Standards from NYS Division of Library Development

Guidelines for Library Policies from American Library Association

Records Retention: NCLS recommends using the NYS Archives Local Government Schedule (LGS-1) to help libraries manage their documents and files.

Many North Country libraries receive federal funding through the E-Rate program, which requires compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA).

Children's Internet Protection Act: FCC Consumer Guide

Sample Internet Safety Policy from E-Rate Central