Demystifying Alberta's Local Governments

Sometimes libraries have to ‘Find a Way’ to build – or rebuild - a relationship with their local governments. That relationship can be a positive, mutually reinforcing one; however, it can also be something less desirable. Municipal council members are elected by the people of their communities to deliver a wide range of programs and services, and there is always more work to do than there are resources available to do it. This is complicated with the notion with some that libraries have outlived their useful life, and some councillors will wonder why they waste money on a service that nobody uses. If trustees understand how local governments work, how they identify their priorities, and where they get their information, the library board stands a better chance of creating a positive relationship with local governments. Together trustees and staff can find a way to make it happen.
Learning Objectives:

• Understand Alberta local government structure.
• Learn how local governments choose from competing priorities.
• Discuss ideas about how library colleagues have kept the profile of libraries high.