Library Board Elections and Annual Business

The Library Act requires municipal libraries, regional district and public library associations to hold annual elections for the chair and vice-chair, and adopt an annual budget. 

The requirements for elections and adoption of the budget are outlined in the Library Act for each type of library:

• Municipal Libraries: Section 7-10
• Regional District Libraries: Section 19-25
• Public Library Associations: Sections 37-40
  • Public Library Associations must provide a copy of the financial statements at or before the annual general meeting (AGM).
  • In each year the library board must prepare and approve a budget for providing library service.The election and adoption of the budget is strongly recommended to take place at the AGM.  
  • AGMs should be held within a few months of the end of the fiscal year to ensure proper reporting and accountability.  
• ​​Integrated Library Systems are departments within their regional districts and are not governed by an elected or appointed library board.

What is the purpose of an AGM?

• To give your members an opportunity to hear various board reports, achievements and progress over the past year
• To provide a copy of the financial statements for inspection by the members
• To elect an executive (Chair, Vice-Chair, etc.) for the next year
• To make any changes to the constitution or bylaws
• To identify new business for the coming year