Library Board Member? Start Here.

You don't need a library degree to govern library technology well. You need the right questions, the right frameworks, and someone who will translate the jargon. That's what this page does.

Everything below is organized for trustees and board members who want to fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities around technology, contracts, and data. Start with the 30-minute path. Come back when you need more.

Your First 30 Minutes

If you only read three things before your next board meeting, make it these.

AI Scorecard Eight questions that tell you whether a vendor's AI proposal is worth your time. Print it, bring it to your next meeting.
Board Memo Template Fill-in-the-blank format for any technology proposal. Forces the right information into one page.
Data Protection & Compliance Framework A practical guide to data security, compliance requirements, and the budget conversation every board needs to have.

When You Have More Time

Board Toolkit The comprehensive governance resource hub. Vendor evaluation, AI compliance, strategic planning, and contract frameworks all in one place.
AI Governance Board Brief The NIST AI Risk Management Framework translated into plain English, with board-ready slides and talking points.
Contract Audit Checklist What to look for before you vote yes on any vendor contract. Red flags, safer alternatives, and the questions your attorney should be asking.
Vendor Contract AI Clauses Five specific clauses to search for in any vendor proposal that involves AI or data processing.

Five Questions Every Trustee Should Ask

Bring these to any technology proposal. You do not need technical expertise to ask them. You need governance instincts, which you already have.

  1. What is our exit cost if this doesn't work?
  2. Who owns the data after contract termination?
  3. What patron data does this system collect, and who can access it?
  4. What do libraries our size typically spend on this?
  5. What happens if we say no?

How to Negotiate When You Can't Leave

Sometimes you can't walk away from a vendor because they are the only viable option in the market. As a board member, how do you handle fiduciary oversight when you have no leverage?

Vendor Negotiation Strategies How to use contract checklists and public transparency to negotiate better pricing and terms, even when you can't actually fire the vendor. Frame your position around state compliance and unified board requirements.

Need the vocabulary? If you encounter a term you don't recognize, the glossary defines library technology terms in plain language. No acronym left behind.

Need deeper help? Most of what you need is free on this site. If you need a contract reviewed before your next board vote, or want a second opinion on a vendor proposal, consulting is available.

Share With Your Network

Different stakeholders need different information. Share the right page with the right person.

For Library Patrons Share this with community members who want to understand why ebook access is shrinking and what they can do about it. Includes a ready-to-send email template for contacting local officials.
For Small & Rural Library Directors Budget-friendly tech guides, contract tools, and resources built for one-person shops and tight budgets.