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Salisbury trustees call state bill on library trustees "vague" and likely unnecessary
Summary
At a Feb. 17 special meeting the Salisbury Free Library Board discussed HB-1214 — a state bill co-sponsored by Louise Andrus — and concluded its purpose appears vague and unnecessary because local libraries already have trustee boards; the bill faces a March 5 vote.
Salisbury Free Library trustees discussed HB-1214 at a Feb. 17 special meeting and characterized the bill’s stated purpose as vague and unnecessary.
When contacted for comment, co-sponsor Louise Andrus said the bill was intended to assist small libraries that do not have trustees but added it would likely "go no where." Trustees said a quick internet check showed every library in the state has a board of trustees and noted municipalities and selectboards can appoint trustees to fill vacancies, leading them to question the bill’s need.
The bill was not killed in committee and was scheduled for a vote on March 5, according to the minutes reviewed by the board. Trustees did not take a formal board vote on the association’s position during the special meeting; they discussed the bill as an agenda item and recorded concerns for the public record.
The discussion cited two specific points: the assertion by the co-sponsor that the measure would help libraries without trustees, and the trustees’ finding that state libraries already have boards and local authorities may appoint trustees. The minutes record the trustees’ assessment that those facts make HB-1214’s stated purpose appear misleading.
No formal board action on the bill was recorded at the meeting. The board’s next regular meeting is March 3, when trustees will continue routine business and hold an investment review with a financial advisor invited to attend.
