Library Board Authority Overview

In general, library boards have a fair amount of authority when it comes to the library. Current law gives boards the authority to:

• Adopt the bylaws governing the board and use of the library
• Adopt policies governing use of the library
• Decide where library branches will be located
• Enter contracts to provide library services
• Have exclusive control over the expenditures of public libraries
• Pay necessary staff expenses
• Prepare an annual budget
• Make a report to the governing body
• Accept gifts, grants, and donations
• Hire, set the salary and duties of library staff, and terminate staff

Boards covered under Part 3 of Title 22, Chapter 1 of the Montana Code Annotated have the power to own property in the NAME of the city or county.