Trustee Resources

Finger Lakes Library System is available to assist our 33 member library boards with guidance and information concerning laws, regulations, governance and best practices for public libraries. For assistance please contact FLLS at (607) 273-4074.

We can also design and deliver workshops for your board on any topics from the Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State (2023 Edition).

Trustee Education Requirement

Beginning January 1, 2023, trustees are required to complete a minimum of two hours of trustee education annually. (Education Law §2-d).

Per Education Law, trustee education topics may include financial oversight, accountability, fiduciary responsibilities and the general powers and duties of a library trustee. Libraries should consult with their public library system about acceptable trustee education topics, formats and activities.

Trustee Toolkit LibGuides

• Trustee Toolkit: Open Meetings Law
• Library Construction Grant (FLLS Timeline 2024-2025)

Additional Resources for Boards:

• Ask the Lawyer Recently Asked Questions (Stephanie “Cole” Adams)
• School Districts and Taxes for Public and Association Libraries: How the Partnership Works
• Minimum Standards (effective January 2021)
• New York State Division of Library Development (Library and Library System Trustees)
• NYLA Library Trustee Association Section
• Regent’s Statement on the Governance Role of a Trustee or Board Member
• State Aid for Library Construction Program
• Trustee Handbook Book Club
• United for Libraries: ALA Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations

FLLS Trustee Newsletter Archive

• January/February 2023 Trustee Newsletter
• December 2022 Trustee Newsletter
• November 2022 Trustee Newsletter
• Sept/Oct 2022 Trustee Newsletter 
• Summer 2022 Trustee Newsletter
• May/June 2022 Newsletter

• April 2022 Trustee Newsletter
• March 2022 Trustee Newsletter
• January 2022 Trustee Newsletter
• November/December 2021
• September/October 2021