Pros And Cons Of Library Districts

Potential benefits of becoming a library district

Provides the opportunity for more stable funding, because funding is secured directly from the community rather than competing with other city or county departments.  Generally speaking library districts tend to be better funded than other types of libraries. 

Can help areas with lower property values maintain quality library services.

Allows public libraries to combine under a new administrative structure, which offers the potential for improved library services and cost savings through sharing costs, such as administrative, personnel, collections, and technology.

Members of the Board of Trustees have the power to levy, within limits.

City councils and county commissioners are freed from many of their administrative and governing responsibilities to the library.

Communities can use the library district to improve an important and essential public service. The library can often offer more services because of increased funding.

Potential disadvantages of becoming a library district

Forming a library district may not be the right answer for all areas. 

Holding a successful election takes a considerable effort.

The complexity of forming a government entity takes a great deal of time and effort. 

Electors can establish and dissolve districts by direct vote.

New costs such as building insurance, legal fees, facilities maintenance, personnel administratioin, and technology management may occur.

 

ASPeN: The New Library Directory

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