A Team Effort

Acceptance of the command structure does not mean that a wall is placed between the Board and the library staff. The Board, director and staff need to view themselves as part of the same team, with the same mission - service.

Board members may often work with the library director and staff members on committee work. All are involved in long-range planning and building community awareness and support.

As a trustee, you should show concern for the well-being of the staff. The Board should be concerned about retention of good staff, especially as it relates to budgeting pay and benefits. In addition, the Board should work with the director to recognize and acknowledge good performance and say thanks to staff through specific Board action.

Adapted from The Board Team Handbook: A Complete Guide to Boardsmanship Basics for the Board Team of the 90's, published by the Cain Consulting Group, 1992.