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2024 Annual Report Guide: 7 & 8 - Minimum Standards

RCLS Helpful Hints Sections 7 & 8

Section 7: MINIMUM PUBLIC LIBRARY STANDARDS

As of January 1, 2022, all public and association libraries in New York State must meet minimum standards of service according to Section 90.2 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education. These standards support improved public library services for the people of New York and are intended to:

  • promote quality local public library service in all communities of New York State,
  • empower libraries to strengthen community relations and promote public support for quality library services, and
  • support a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. 

Click here to learn more about New York Public and Association Library Minimum Standards.

Click here to access the online version of the Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State (2023 Edition)

Communication sent on January 29, 2025:

RCLS will continue to audit libraries on Minimum Standards compliance. Last year, the focus was Minimum Standard #1: Bylaws; due to the lack of compliance, we will continue working with libraries to update their bylaws and ensure that the document is available to the public on their websites. 

Minimum Standard #1 

is governed by written bylaws that define the structure and governing functions of the library board of trustees and which shall be reviewed and re-approved by the board of trustees at least once every five years or earlier if required by law.

This year, we will also focus on compliance with

Minimum Standard #3 

provides a board-approved written annual report to the community on the library's progress in meeting its mission, goals, and objectives, as outlined in the library’s long-range plan of service

 

Section 8: PUBLIC SERVICE INFORMATION

8.6 Minimum Weekly Total Hours - Main Library - The instructions state to excluded natural disasters or other events. 

8.13 should equal 9.15, unless your library has branches such as Haverstraw, Newburgh, Western Sullivan and Woodbury, then it’s the sum of all the branches.