“Essential Documents” are core documents every library should have. Find links to resources and sample policies below.
Use the boxes below to jump to an internal policies content area, or search for a policy using CTRL+F.
Bylaws
Required by Minimum Public Library Standard #1.
- Development questions:
- Name of the library and its Charter date.
- What is the business/financial year of the library? (January 1 – December 31, June 1 – May 31, etc. )
- Who is eligible to be a Library Board member?
- Number of Board Members required. (This should comply with the library’s Charter)
- How are Board members selected (election, appointment, etc.)?
- Meeting Procedures & Policies
- Open Meetings Law
- Board Committees
- Role of the Library Director in relation to the Board and its meetings – Are they required to make a report?
- Indemnification Clause
- The process for Amending the Board Bylaws
- Resources:
- Sample Bylaws | Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State (2023)
- Helpful Information for Meeting Minimum Standard 1 : Written Bylaws | New York State Division of Library Development.
Long Range Plan
Required by Minimum Public Library Standard #2.
- Resources
- Helpful Information for Meeting Minimum Standard 2 : Long Range Plan | NYS Division of Library Development (DLD)
Facility Plan
- Resources:
Technology Plan
- Resources:
- Checklist for a Library Technology Plan | WebJunction
- Writing goals and objectives for a technology plan | WebJunction
Annual Report to the Community
Required by Minimum Public Library Standard #3.
- Resources:
- Helpful Information for Meeting Minimum Standard 3: Report to the Community | NYS Division of Library Development (DLD)