Best practices for public library boards

Overview

Alberta public library boards often request information on basic service best practices in order to compare their library with those of similar size. The Best Practices for Public Libraries in Alberta provides this information.

These best practices:

• encourage equitability in delivery of library services for residents of Alberta
• provide a point of reference for self-evaluation
• provide a framework for future development
• encourage excellence in library service

Best Practices for Alberta Public Libraries provides service levels that each board can consider as they assess and plan their library service, while taking into account the community's expectations, challenges, and growth. These best practices are not standards required by the province.

Each local library board is responsible for determining how it measures its success. Boards can use best practices to determine if their measures of success are comparable to other similar libraries.

Areas of best practice

The areas of best practice include:

• personnel
• hours of opening
• collection management
• information services
• resource sharing including interlibrary loan
• accessibility
• Indigenous service
• technology
• facilities
• school-housed public libraries

Feedback

Feedback regarding Best Practices for Alberta Public Libraries is welcome and can be sent to Kerry Anderson ([email protected]).