Public library trustees in New York State oversee an estimated $1.6 billion of the public’s money—a responsibility that must be undertaken by informed, thoughtful, prudent, and trustworthy library boards. Requiring trustee education will foster an understanding of complex governance processes so that this responsibility is met.
In accordance with NYS Education Law 260-d, beginning January 1, 2023, each Trustee, elected or appointed, to the Chappaqua Library Board shall be required to complete a minimum of four hours of trustee education annually.
Such trustee education may include, but is not limited to, topics such as financial over sight, accountability, fiduciary responsibilities and the general powers and duties of a library trustee.
Each Trustee shall demonstrate compliance with this education requirement by filing a certificate of completion issued by one or more approved providers with the Board Secretary. The tracking and compliance of Trustee trainings will be recorded and available for viewing.
Modest and reasonable costs incurred by a Trustee in complying with the training re quirement may be subsidized by the library.
Should a Trustee fail to comply with the above, a warning by the President will be issued and additional noncompliance may be grounds for dismissal.
Adopted: January 23, 2023