Why are libraries operated by library Boards?
The Public Libraries Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.44 (PLA) mandates that a public library shall be under the management and control of a board.
How is the Scugog Memorial Public Library Board appointed?
The Board is appointed by municipal Council.
What are the qualifications to be a Board member?
According to the PLA a person is qualified to be appointed as a member of a board who is a member of the appointing council, or,
(a) is at least eighteen years old;
(b) is a Canadian citizen;
(c) is a resident of Scugog:
(d) is not employed by the Board or by the Township of Scugog
How many members make up the Board?
A minimum of 5 members are required by the PLA, including one Council representative.
How often does the Board meet?
The Board meets monthly with the exception of July, August and December. The Board must hold a minimum of 7 meetings per year.
What is the monthly time commitment for Board members?
Monthly meetings generally last 1 hour. Sub-committees are established and meet only as needed. The Chair may have additional responsibilities that take up additional time on occasion. Advocacy activities, organized as needed, may take up 2-3 hours monthly.
Are Board members paid?
There is no stipend paid.
What does the Board do?
The Board establishes strategic objectives for the Library and ensures that they are met.
The Board oversees the performance of the CEO.
The Board ensures that the Library operates within the parameters of its budget, legislation, and Library and Township of Scugog policies.
Do Board members manage the day to day operations of the Library?
No. Library operations are the responsibility of the Library’s staff. The Board is a governance body that follows the Policy Governance Model.
When will the Board be formed?
The Board must be approved by Council within sixty days of the first meeting of the new Council.
Where do I get additional information?
Please contact the Chief Executive Officer Amy Caughlin at 905-985-7686 ext. 102 or at acaughlin@scugoglibrary.ca for additional information.
How do I submit my application?
The Board’s term is 4 years, concurrent with the Council that made the appointment, so anyone wishing to apply, should do so only when the Board is soliciting applications (either due to a vacancy or in the months surrounding a municipal election).
Applications may be downloaded from the Library’s website. Hard copy forms are available at the Library. Please return your completed hard copy application to the Library, addressed to the attention of Amy Caughlin. All applications will be reviewed by a selection committee and interviews may be held prior to December.