The Library Board of Trustees (the Board) is composed of ten members including one representative selected by the Superintendent of Schools and one representative of Outagamie County. A maximum of one alderperson may serve on the Board at one time. In addition to these statutorily defined roles, one teen appointee serves in an advisory capacity. The citizen members are appointed for terms of three years. The Board exercises independent authority over the Library, per statute.
The Board is a publicly appointed body subject to open meetings laws who oversees all operations of the Appleton Public Library in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 43.
Qualifications and Responsibilities:
- Commitment to the provision of library services within our community and the freedom of expression and inquiry for all people.
- Prepare for and attend regularly scheduled board meetings.
- Participate in the approval of library policies.
- Act as an advocate for the library.
- Become familiar with principles and issues relating to intellectual freedom and equitable provision of public library services.
- Attend library conferences, workshops, and other training opportunities
- Assist in the formulation and adoption of a strategic plan for the library. Periodically review and revise strategic plan.
While the Board oversees the governance of the library, it does not have taxation authority. The Board presents a budget to the Mayor and the library’s budget is approved in conjunction with all the other City of Appleton departmental budgets by the Common Council.
Term: 3 years (April 2026-April 2029) - 3 vacancies
Meetings: The Library Board meets the Tuesday before the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 4:30 p.m. Meetings are held in the Library Administration Board Room - 200 N Appleton Street.
Appleton residency is required for this appointment.
