Be a part of a vibrant literary environment in our city!
Apply to serve on the Library Advisory Board
The Library Advisory Board is dedicated to enhancing and promoting the Arlington Public Library as a vital community resource. The Library Advisory Board works closely, in an advising capacity, with the Library Director, City Management, and the City Council. This collaborative effort ensures that the library meets the community's evolving needs, making a significant impact on the community.
Our Vision: We strive to be our community's center for
learning, experience, access, and discovery.
Our Mission: We build a bridge from curiosity to opportunity
for a vibrant Arlington.
We invite passionate individuals to apply for the Library Advisory Board and contribute to shaping our community's reading landscape. If you love reading and literacy, are committed to community engagement, and desire to enhance our library services, submit your application today. Applications are accepted at any time, but council selection is made as it relates to board vacancies. We encourage you to submit your application at any time to be considered for the next available vacancy.
Eligibility Requirements are you must:
1. live in Arlington
2. eligible to vote in the City (except Youth representatives),
3. hold no publicly elected office
4. must not be delinquent in payment of any amounts due to the City, including property taxes, water utility payments, adjudicated citations, etc..
Information submitted is public information under the Texas Public Information Act. Public deliberation and selection of applicants by the City Council is subject to the provisions of the Texas Open Meetings Act.
Recommended Qualifications:
· Interest in library services and the role of libraries in the community
· Willingness to advocate and communicate with various segments of our community
· Participate in volunteer or community outreach
· Awareness of library operations and trends through personal or professional experience
Key Responsibilities:
· Library Advocacy: The Library Advisory Board champions the library's role as a cornerstone of the community, advocating for its continued growth and development. Your voice and influence as a board member can shape the future of our library.
· Recommendations: The Board provides feedback and suggestions on library policies, programs, and services.
· Community Engagement: The Library Advisory Board is committed to fostering a strong connection between the library and the community through outreach and engagement initiatives. Your involvement is crucial to maintaining this strong bond.
Board Composition:
The Library Advisory Board consists of ten (9) regular members and one (1) youth member, all appointed by the City Council. Members are expected to be Arlington residents with a passion for libraries and community engagement.
What is the time commitment:
Board members serve two-year terms, with the youth member serving a one-year term.
The Board typically meets at least 9 times a year as needed or the 4th Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. and time is variable depending on the agenda and dialog. Unless there is an urgent need the Board does not meet in July or August. Holiday conflicts can also impact this schedule.
Don’t hesitate to contact the City Secretary’s office at (817) 459-6186 or Library Administration at (817) 459-6903 or email at LibraryAdmin@arlingtontx.gov for more details or to express interest.