Library Board
Al Buck, Chairperson
Gwen Schaeffer, Vice Chairperson
Alyssa Groom, Secretary
Maddy Schmitz
Sydney Wachendorf
Connie Wason
Alicia Meyer
The Urbana Library Board of Trustees meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the library.
Agenda's & Minutes
2026
Previous years' minutes are available at the Urbana Public Library.
Primary Roles of the Library Board of Trustees
The Library Board of Trustees provides governance, oversight, and long-range vision for the library. The Board works in partnership with the Library Director to ensure the library meets the needs of the community while operating responsibly and in accordance with state and local regulations.
Governance & Policy
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Establish and periodically review library policies to guide services, operations, and use of library resources
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Ensure policies reflect the library’s mission, values, and community needs
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Uphold state laws, local ordinances, and ethical standards related to public libraries
Strategic Planning & Vision
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Set the long-term vision and strategic direction of the library
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Support planning efforts that respond to community growth, technology changes, and evolving service needs
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Advocate for sustainable and forward-thinking library services
Financial Oversight
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Review and approve the library budget
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Monitor library finances to ensure responsible stewardship of public funds
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Support funding efforts, grants, and fundraising initiatives when appropriate
Director Support & Evaluation
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Hire, support, and evaluate the Library Director
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Serve as a sounding board and resource for the Director
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Focus on governance and oversight rather than day-to-day operations
Advocacy & Community Engagement
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Act as ambassadors for the library within the community
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Promote awareness of library programs, services, and needs
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Support partnerships that strengthen the library’s role in the community
Facilities & Resources
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Provide oversight for library facilities, equipment, and long-term capital planning
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Support efforts to ensure the library is safe, accessible, and welcoming to all
What the Board Does Not Do
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Manage daily library operations
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Supervise library staff (this is the responsibility of the Library Director)
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Make individual decisions outside of Board meetings or established policies