Library Administration and Management Flashcards

Which governance body typically provides policy oversight and advocacy for a public library in the US?

Answer: Library board of trustees

A library board of trustees is the governing body that sets policy, approves budgets, and hires the director for most US public libraries.

What is a 'SWOT analysis' used for in library strategic planning?

Answer: Identifying Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats facing the library

A SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool that identifies internal Strengths and Weaknesses and external Opportunities and Threats to inform the library's strategic direction.

What does 'zero-based budgeting' mean in library financial management?

Answer: Building the budget from scratch each year, requiring justification for every expenditure

Zero-based budgeting requires each budget cycle to begin from zero and justify every expense, rather than using the previous year's budget as a baseline.

What is 'MBO' (Management by Objectives) in library administration?

Answer: A management approach where supervisors and staff collaboratively set specific, measurable goals

Management by Objectives (MBO) is a performance management approach where supervisors and employees jointly set specific, measurable goals and then evaluate performance against those goals.

Which federal law requires public and school libraries receiving E-rate funding to have an internet safety policy?

Answer: CIPA (Children's Internet Protection Act)

CIPA (Children's Internet Protection Act) requires libraries receiving federal E-rate discounts or LSTA grants to have an internet safety policy and use technology protection measures (filters).

What is a 'Friends of the Library' organization?

Answer: A volunteer advocacy and fundraising group that supports the library's programs and services

Friends of the Library groups are volunteer organizations that advocate for the library, raise supplemental funds, and organize programs to build community support.