The Nation Municipality

A Public Library Board is a governing board and a legal corporation under the Public Libraries Act (PLA) responsible for the management and control of the public library, including library operations and the creation of policies related to the public library. 

• Strategic Oversight: Developing and approving policies and a strategic plan that meet the community’s needs. 

• Budget Approval: Review and approve the library’s annual budget for submission to Council for consideration. 

• Hiring Leadership: Hiring and evaluation of the Library CEO. 

• Governance: Ensure library operations align with board priorities, applicable legislation, and the Public Libraries Act. 

• Accountability: Oversee financial performance and ensure alignment with the approved budget and strategic goals. 

• Performance Monitoring: Track the library’s progress and provide informed direction to achieve its mission. 

• Compliance with Legislation: Perform any other duties as mandated under the Public Libraries Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.44. 

Cut to the Chase is a quick reference guide on public library governance in Ontario and the library board’s fundamental responsibilities for achieving effective leadership and sound governance.

JOIN THE NATION MUNICIPALITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD
The Nation Municipality is seeking volunteers to join its Public Library Board. 

TERM
Until November 2026 (concurrent with the term of the existing Municipal Council). 

WHO CAN APPLY?
Residents of The Nation Municipality who are: 

• At least 18 years old, 

• Canadian citizens, and 

• Not employed by The Nation Municipality or its Public Library Board. 

COMMITMENT
A board shall hold at least seven regular meetings in each year.

YOUR ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY
As a board member, you will assume fiduciary and legal responsibilities to ensure the library operates responsibly, ethically, and in compliance with legislation. Key responsibilities include: 

• Strategic Oversight: Participate in developing and approving policies and a strategic plan that meet the community’s needs. 

• Budget Approval: Review and approve the library’s annual budget for submission to Council for consideration. 

• Hiring Leadership: Play an integral role in the hiring and evaluation of the Library CEO. 

• Governance: Ensure library operations align with board priorities, applicable legislation, and the Public Libraries Act. 

• Accountability: Oversee financial performance and ensure alignment with the approved budget and strategic goals. 

• Performance Monitoring: Track the library’s progress and provide informed direction to achieve its mission. 

• Compliance with Legislation: Perform any other duties as mandated under the Public Libraries Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.44. 

WHY JOIN?
This is your opportunity to: 

• Shape the future of your local library, 

• Strengthen your skills in governance and community advocacy, 

• Be a voice for library users in The Nation Municipality. 

INTERESTED?
Please send your résumé and cover letter to admin@nationmun.ca before February 7th, 2025.

An information session for those interested in joining the board will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at Town Hall (958 Route 500 West, Casselman).

This meeting is exclusively for individuals interested in becoming a board member. We will outline the roles, fiduciary responsibilities, and legal obligations to help you understand what the role entails. You can then decide if you would like to proceed with your application.

Confirm your attendance at the information session by Friday, January 24, 2025, by emailing admin@nationmun.ca.