Board Director Application Information

BCLTA Mission:  “To support and represent trustees in advancing public libraries.”

The British Columbia Library Trustees Association was established in 1977 as a provincial organization under the Societies Act. The role played by public library boards is critical to the development of library service in the province. As the association representing those library boards, BCLTA works with boards to build capacity and strengthen collaboration through information sharing and resources, training and development opportunities , communications and advocacy services.

A. The Purposes of the Association

1. To promote and foster effectiveness of all public libraries in British Columbia for the advancement of library service throughout the province.
2. To provide a forum for greater understanding of the role of library service in the community and will encourage the exchange of ideas in the library community through conferences, training, continuing education and library publications.
3. To liaise with the Libraries Branch, of the Provincial Government, to identify and communicate revisions or amendments in legislation to ensure a continuing, vibrant library service in British Columbia.
4. (d) To communicate with provincial, national and international organizations regarding library issues.

B. Role of the BCLTA Board 

The Board functions as a governance and policy board, and not an operational board. In this model, the Board focuses on leadership through proper conduct of its fiduciary duty, including: 

1. ensuring BCLTA operates in pursuit of its established purposes and in compliance with its bylaws and applicable laws; 
2. setting strategic priorities and monitoring progress toward determined goals; 
3.  approving annual operating budgets and monitoring financial health of BCLTA; 
4. establishing and approving policies for the effective governance and administration of BCLTA; and 
5. supervising and holding the Executive Director accountable for the effective management of the operations of BCLTA. 

C. Role and Responsibilities of a Board Director

1. To act with integrity on all matters relating to BCLTA
2. Comply with BCLTA governance policies including bylaws
3. Contribute to key areas of Board involvement including governance, strategic planning, finance and administrative structure
4. To treat Board directors and staff with respect
5. To prepare for Board meetings in advance, attend regularly scheduled Board meetings (5 to 6 meetings annually), and participate fully
6. To participate in designated committees
7. To be a positive advocate for Public Libraries in British Columbia

D. Board Term for a Director

The term of a Board Director is two years from the date of election at the Annual General Meeting.

E. Application and Nomination Process

1. Trustees may submit their application on or before March 16.
2. The BCLTA Board will conduct a one-on-one informal interview process throughout March.
3. The BCLTA will confirm the nomination with the applicant on or before March 24, and a bio will be requested at this time
4. The nominations will be put to a vote at the BCLTA AGM held on April 24 (exact time is TBD, and will be accessible virtually or in person at the BCLA conference)
5. For additional information, please reach out to Vea Coronado, BCLTA Executive Director, vea.coronado@bclta.ca