Walking the Administrative Tightrope, or "It's Not a Job, It's an Adventure"

Abstract

Library directors do not make policy and library boards do not direct daily library operations. The key issue in the relationship is that responsibilities of boards and directors should be divided through careful consideration and discussion. The board/director relationship can be compared to an Alexander Calder mobile: on one side with the board rests the ultimate responsibility for the library. On the other side, responsibility for the actual operation rests with the director. For the library to function effectively the board must maintain a balance with the director in a team effort. The board relinquishes authority in exchange for the knowledge and resources the professional director can bring to the team. Together in an atmosphere of trust the many functions of the library can be accomplished. The backbone of this relationship is clear, well-written library policy, including job descriptions for both parties.