DAUPHIN COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM (The Library)

Application for consideration for service to the Board of Trustees

Thank you for your interest in providing service to The Library Board of Trustees. To apply to serve, please submit this completed application and attach a resume (optional) to: Dauphin County Library System, Attn: Board Governance Committee, rmccrory@dcls.org and lwarner@dcls.org. In accordance with the bylaws of our organization, The Library is led by a Board of Trustees that consists of seventeen persons serving three-year terms. Twelve are elected by the Board of Trustees, and five are appointed annually for three-year terms by the Dauphin County Commissioners. Trustees are eligible to serve up to nine consecutive years, with special exceptions to the term length made for those who serve in officer positions.

The Library aims to build an effective working board of leaders that represents the population of Dauphin County. When seeking new trustees, whether appointed or elected, preference for candidates will be focused on finding committed citizens who will be actively involved in furthering The Library’s mission and vision. The Board Governance Committee will review applications to select candidates for recommendation for appointment by the County Commissioners or election by the sitting Board who will provide balanced leadership in alignment with current and strategic goals. A board profile survey is used to analyze the geographic composition of The Library Board of Trustees and to ensure that the Board Governance Committee can seek appropriate skills, strengths, and connections.

  • All candidates for consideration to serve the Board of Trustees or special committees must: Be residents of Dauphin County, or currently or previously employed by an entity in Dauphin County, or, serving or have served as a volunteer within an entity located in Dauphin County.
  • Read and sign the Board Member Commitment to Serve (attached) that outlines minimum Trustee expectations, including that trustees will represent The Library in the community, attend meetings, contribute financially, avoid conflicts of interest, participate fully, and comply fully with the responsibilities of service to the Board.
  • Comply with the standard background

Notice of Time Commitment:

  • Board meetings are held monthly on the third Tuesday of every month from 12p.m. – 1p.m. Most meetings are Executive Sessions of the Board and held via Zoom except for public meetings which are held on the first month each quarter in the meeting room of the East Shore Area Library in Harrisburg and via Zoom, though time and location are subject to change.
  • Each trustee, whether elected or appointed, may also serve on one or two board committees which also meet at regular intervals.




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    Board Member Commitment to Serve


    I understand that as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Dauphin County Library System (The Library), I have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure that The Library does the best work possible in pursuit of its goals. I believe in the vision and the mission of The Library, and I will act responsibly and prudently as its steward.

    As part of my responsibilities, I commit to the following:

    • Represent The Library to the public and elected officials through my networks.

    • Attend at least 75% of board and committee meetings in person or via call.

    • Excuse myself from discussions/votes where I have a conflict of interest.

    • Be an active member of 1–2 board committees.

    • Stay informed, ask questions, and help make board decisions.

    • Make a personally meaningful financial contribution and participate in fundraising.

    • Submit PA Child Abuse and Criminal Record Clearances within 30 days of confirmation.

    • Collaborate with staff and trustees in good faith.

    The Library will support my service by providing timely updates, financial reports, access to leadership, professional development opportunities, and good-faith collaboration toward our goals.

    I have read and understand the above expectations and commitments, and I agree to fulfill my duties as a Board Member of the Dauphin County Library System.

    By submitting this application, I affirm that the facts set forth are true and complete. The Board Governance Committee may contact me to discuss this further. If I have questions or require additional information, I will contact the library or attend a board meeting.