How can you build a strong relationship with your library board?

1 Understand their role and expectations

The first step to building a strong relationship with your library board is to understand their role and expectations. Your board is not your boss, but your partner in governance. They are not there to micromanage your work, but to provide strategic direction and oversight. They are not your adversaries, but your allies in advocacy and fundraising. To understand their role and expectations, you need to review the bylaws, policies, and procedures of your board, as well as the state and local laws that govern your library. You also need to ask them about their goals, priorities, and concerns for the library, and how they prefer to communicate and receive information.

2 Communicate regularly and clearly

The second step to building a strong relationship with your library board is to communicate regularly and clearly. You need to keep your board informed of the library's activities, achievements, challenges, and needs, as well as any external factors that may affect the library's operations or reputation. You need to use various channels and formats to communicate with your board, such as emails, newsletters, reports, presentations, and meetings. You need to be honest, transparent, and respectful in your communication, and avoid surprises, jargon, or assumptions. You also need to listen to your board's feedback, questions, and suggestions, and acknowledge their contributions and perspectives.

3 Collaborate on projects and initiatives

The third step to building a strong relationship with your library board is to collaborate on projects and initiatives. You need to involve your board in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the library's programs, services, and facilities, and seek their input and approval on major decisions and changes. You need to align your library's goals and objectives with your board's vision and mission, and demonstrate how your library supports the community's needs and interests. You need to share your expertise and knowledge with your board, and leverage their skills and connections to enhance your library's resources and outreach.

4 Connect on a personal level

The fourth step to building a strong relationship with your library board is to connect on a personal level. You need to get to know your board members as individuals, and learn about their backgrounds, interests, and passions. You need to show appreciation and recognition for their work and dedication, and celebrate their achievements and milestones. You need to build trust and rapport with your board members, and show empathy and support when they face difficulties or challenges. You also need to have some fun and socialize with your board members, and create opportunities for informal interactions and team-building activities.

5 Respect their diversity and differences

The fifth step to building a strong relationship with your library board is to respect their diversity and differences. Your board may consist of people from different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and opinions, and that is a strength, not a weakness. You need to value and embrace the diversity and differences of your board, and foster a culture of inclusion and equity in your library. You need to avoid stereotypes, biases, and assumptions, and treat your board members with dignity and respect. You also need to manage conflicts and disagreements constructively, and seek common ground and compromise when possible.

6 Seek feedback and improvement

The sixth step to building a strong relationship with your library board is to seek feedback and improvement. You need to evaluate your performance and relationship with your board regularly, and ask for their feedback and suggestions on how you can improve. You need to be open to constructive criticism, and willing to learn from your mistakes and challenges. You also need to provide feedback and suggestions to your board on how they can improve their governance and support of your library. You need to set realistic and measurable goals and expectations, and track your progress and achievements.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?