Fort Scott Public Library Trustee Bylaws
Article I: Name and Authorization
This organization shall be called the Board of Trustees of the Fort Scott Public Library, existing by provision of K.S.A. 12-1222, with powers and duties as provided by K.S.A. 12-1225.
Article II: Members
The Board of Trustees, as provided by K.S.A. 12-1222, shall consist of seven members appointed for four-year terms by the mayor with the approval of the city council. The mayor shall serve as an ex officio member. No person who has served two consecutive four-year terms shall be eligible for further appointment until one year after the expiration of the second term.
Article III: Officers
The officers shall be a chairperson, a vice-chair, a secretary, and a treasurer, which shall have the powers normally associated with such offices. Officers shall serve a term of one year from the annual meeting at which they are elected. The Board shall also select a representative to the Board of the Southeast Kansas Library System.
- The chairperson shall preside at meetings of the board, authorize calls for any special meetings, appoint any committees, and generally perform all duties associated with that office.
- The vice-chair shall perform the duties and functions of the chair in the absence or disability of the chair.
- The secretary shall keep a true and accurate record of all meetings of the board and perform such other duties as are generally associated with that office.
- The treasurer shall be bonded as required by statute.
Article IV: Meetings
The regular meetings shall be held each month at the date and time prescribed by the Board. The May meeting shall be designated the annual meeting, for the purpose of the election of officers. Special meetings may be called by the chairperson or upon the written request of a majority of board members. Five members shall constitute a quorum.
Article V: TrusteeDirectorStaff Relationships
The Board shall employ a Director who shall be the administrative officer under the direction and review of the Board. The Director shall be responsible for the employment and direction of the staff, for the operation of the library under the financial conditions set forth in the annual budget, and for such responsibilities as are delegated by the Board.
Article VI: Board Principles
The library board has authority only when acting as a Board legally in session. Board members as individuals do not exercise authority, and the board as a whole shall not be bound by any statement or action of an individual.
A board member shall withdraw from board discussion and votes on any matter in which the member or an immediate family member has a financial interest.
Article VII: Expenses
As provided in K.S.A. 12-1223, board members shall receive no compensation for their services, but may be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses in carrying out their duties as board members.
Article VIII: Amendments
These bylaws may be amended at any regular meeting of the Board by a majority of those present, providing that such proposed amendment shall first be submitted at a regular meeting of the Board and sent to those not present.
Modified by and Adopted by the Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Public Library 9/15/92, Revised 9/13/2022