About KPL

Kalamazoo Public Library Board of Trustees Extends Vacancy Application Deadline to November 22

Posted November 7, 2024. Kalamazoo Public Library Board of Trustees has extended the trustee vacancy application deadline to November 22 (originally September 27). This position will serve until December 2026 and will be up for election in November 2026.

The extension allows candidates who ran for the KPL Board of Trustees during the 2024 election another opportunity to apply. The vacancy committee appreciates the patience of applicants, library patrons, and the KPL Board of Trustees as the committee takes advantage of the unique timing of the current opening. By delaying the appointment, the new Trustee will also have the opportunity to be sworn in with the newly elected Trustees in January 2025.

  • Candidates should address the listed preferences and state reasons why they believe they are qualified to serve on the Library Board.
  • Letters of application are due November 22 by 5 pm
  • Send or deliver to:
    Board of Trustees
    c/o Arika Jimenez
    Kalamazoo Public Library
    315 S. Rose Street
    Kalamazoo, MI 49007
  • Public interviews will be held on December 2, 6–8 pm in an open meeting
  • The committee will present recommendations at the regularly scheduled board meeting on December 9
  • The newly appointed trustee will be sworn in with the other elected trustees in January 2025

Kalamazoo Public Library Trustee
Responsibilities:

A Trustee will:

  • Give their time and talent to the library; allow a schedule that permits participating in monthly meetings, special library functions, and other community events at which the library is promoted.
  • Read board minutes and other materials and be familiar with board policies.
  • Be informed about all phases of the library operation.
  • Serve on committees as assigned by the board president.
  • State one’s views on important issues, speak openly and directly with other board members, and navigate conflict.
  • Preserve and promote the library as a public forum for the sharing of information and ideas without prejudice.
  • Lend expertise and leadership to the board for the good of the library and the patrons it serves.
  • Be an advocate for the library and library services.


Preferences & Expectations:

(The following list of preferred characteristics is not exhaustive, however, these are characteristics the Board is seeking of candidates.)

Candidate has:

  • Knowledge and experience with Social Justice and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work.
  • Characteristics that add to the diversity of the board.
  • Experiences as a member of a governing board, or comparable experiences with issues that confront an organization like a public library (i.e. budgets, strategic planning, stewardship of resources, policies).