Fraser Valley Regional Library Board Response
Public Library Legislation SECOND DRAFT
A White Paper for Public Review -3- May 11, 1993

4. RGLE AND STATUS OF THE LIBRARY BOARD

This clause is one which has now been standardized for all types of public libraries.
The Board’s comments here apply to all appearances of the clause in the Act.

(1) The Board disagrees with this provision for two reasons:

(a) The emphasis is on management of the library and does not give any
recognition of the important board role in providing a vision of the library,
leadership and policy development. By this emphasis it also encourages

boards to assume duties that may be the responsibility of the chief
administrative officer.

The terminology “managed and controiled" is entirely inappropriate in
present day organizational culture. The emphasis should be more on
leadership and facilitation. If indeed this wording is meant to convey the
financial and legal responsibility of the library board then it should be
worded more clearly to convey this.

(2) The Board supports the addition of corporate powers to library boards.

HOW THE LIBRARY BOARD IS APPOINTED
(2) The Board supports the increase in maximum board membership to 13 members.

(4) The Board disagrees that advertising for board members be compulsory and

suggests that tue provision be permissive.

TERM OF OFFICE

(2) The Board does not support the principle of continuing appointments to a library
board without a limit as to number of years. It would prefer to see a nine year
limit, with three year terms rather than two.

ELECTION OF CHAIR

(2) The Board feels this is confusing and erroneous. Such a role should be played
by the Vice-Chair.

ITEM | PAGE |
|

39