FAQ

Library Director
Oversee daily operation of the Library including personnel, fiscal, physical space, planning, collections and programmatic functions. Develop library goals, policy and procedure. Act as adviser to the Trustees, Friends, Foundation and community stakeholders to support the Library’s mission and goals.

Trustees
Receive monthly reports on the day to day operations of the library, including personnel, collections development, fiscal, physical plant and programmatic functions.

Friends of the SPL
Support the Library by offering funds for materials and programs.

SPL Foundation
The Somerville Public Library Foundation was established in 2020 to fundraise for capital projects and major initiatives.

Library Director
Apprise Trustees of need for new policies, as well as policy revisions. Implement the policies of the Library as adopted by the Trustees.

Trustees
Review and adopt written policies to govern the operation and program of the library.

Friends of the SPL
Support the policies of the Library

SPL Foundation
Support the policies of the Library

Library Director
Coordinate and implement a strategic plan with input from Trustees, Friends, Foundation, Library staff and the community.

Trustees
Ensure that the Library has a strategic plan with implementation and evaluation components.

Friends of the SPL
Provide input into the Library’s strategic plan and support its implementation

SPL Foundation
Provide input into the Library’s strategic plan and support its implementation.

Library Director
Prepare an annual budget for the Library in accordance with state requirements for accreditation. Seek adequate funds to carry out the Library mission. Responsible for the stewardship of funds and gifts obtained from fundraising. Update Trustees about ongoing negotiations and financial needs.

Trustees
Assist as needed in the preparation and presentation of the annual budget.

Friends of the SPL
Provide fiscal support for Library programs, services, and materials not covered by the library’s normal operating budget through book sales, special events, and membership dues.

SPL Foundation
Conduct major Library fundraising initiatives through gifts, grants and bequests from individuals and organizations.

Library Director
Promote the mission of the Library; Educate the Trustees, Friends, Foundation, City administration, Library staff and the community regarding local, state and federal issues that impact the Library.

Trustees
Promote the mission of the Library within the community and advocate for the Library to legislators.

Friends of the SPL
Promote the mission of the Library within the community.

SPL Foundation
Create ways that will build a legacy for the future and create ongoing sources of support to insure the long term financial stability of the library.

Library Director
Participate in and update Trustees, Friends, Foundation, City administration, Library staff and community meetings. Ensure there is a liaison from the Board of Trustees to the Friends and Foundation.

Trustees
Participate in all board meetings. Appoint a liaison to the Friends and Foundation boards and receive regular updates about their activities.

Friends of the SPL
Appoint a liaison to the Foundation board to participate in Foundation meetings and receive regular updates about their activities. Maintain and develop strong relationships with the Library administration, Trustee and Foundation liaisons.

SPL Foundation
Maintain and develop strong relationships with Library administration and Trustee and Friends liaisons.