ALIA Public Libraries Advisory Committee

Terms of reference

Purpose

The ALIA Public Libraries Advisory Committee advises the Board of Directors about matters relating to public libraries and is charged with delivering against the national vision and framework for public libraries.

In addition, it aims:

• To facilitate collaboration in the public library sector
• To increase awareness of and participation in ALIA services and activities by public library institutional members
• To increase the membership of ALIA from the public library sector (both institutional and personal membership)

Deliverables

The ALIA Public Libraries Advisory Committee, with the assistance of ALIA National Office will:

• Action the national framework and advise the Board of Directors about achievements against the work plan
• Contribute to discussion papers and submissions to inquiries
• Provide advice to the Board on strategic and policy issues for the public library sector

Issues

Other issues to be considered by the ALIA Public Libraries Advisory Committee could include but are not limited to:

• Promotion and advocacy for public libraries addressed to the community and to all levels of government
• Levels and sources of funding for public libraries
• Staffing, training and professional development issues for public libraries
• Needs of libraries and LIS workers in rural and remote areas
• Involvement and engagement of public library members
• Relationships and consultation between ALIA and other relevant organisations (eg. NSLA, PLA, ALGA)

Membership

The group will comprise the heads of the state associations, representatives from Tasmania, the Northern Territory, ACT and Public Libraries Australia and, by special invitation, individuals with expertise in the public library sector. The group may co-opt expertise as needed in particular areas and which is not available through its members. The group will have up to 16 members and will include the executive director or the executive director's delegate. The group may elect a convenor from within its membership.

Terms of office

Members will be appointed for up to three years. Members may not serve more than two consecutive terms.

Communication

The group will meet electronically or face-to-face as needed, but at least once a year. It shall report as required on matters referred by the Board of Directors, and may refer matters of interest or concern to the Board of Directors for consideration.

Review

The terms of reference shall be subject to review every three years - last reviewed September 2010.