9 September 2025, Day at the library, studying policy making and processes

The policies of the public library involves systematic review and approval of the Board of Trustees. The Lillie M. Evans library has a plan on the systematic review, and we went over the details.

In accordance with the serving our public 4.0 Standards for Illinois Libraries policies are to be reviewed every three years. The exception by statute (75 ILCS 5/4-7.2) The selection of materials and use of library materials and facilities policy must be reviewed and approved every two (2) years.

During the session we reviewed and discussed the policies. This is a sample of some of the items we discussed.

In the personnel policy we looked at staff development practices. The library has planned staff development days for the mandatory safety training and patron expectations. They do allow staff to do online training and also travel to training functions like Fast Forward sponsored by the Illinois Library Association.

As there is a big focus on social media by using Facebook, Instagram and direct email. Looking at issues other libraries have had the library does allow comments. We discussed the Illinois Secretary of State’s Social Media policy as well.

The libraries social media accounts are at a 98% threshold on ADA access to the library website and social media posts.

Leaned a lot in drafting of policy in an empathetic manner trying to get away from all the legalese that so many libraries have in place.

PLA Forces: Force 3 Building Community. Policies are important to the library and changes need to be made as the community evolves. On a 3 year review the community can change in a lot of ways. Making sure the policies are empathetic to the community needs. Policies should not be used as a roadblock. They should be open to change. 

Work time: 6 hours                     Semester total 14 hours