Campaign focused on diversify leadership boards and committees at local libraries
The Allegheny County Library Association (ACLA) is celebrating the continued success of its The Talent Bank – a resource that has helped local libraries acquire the interest and talents of community members to serve in leadership positions.
Since the inception of the program in 2021, ACLA and its 46 member libraries have acquired several new community representatives who are providing strong leadership and representation on our local library boards.
While librarians and library staff are the faces you see behind the reference desk, library boards provide the strategic vision that is crucial for their library’s long-term success. ACLA’s library boards, and the volunteer committees are in a unique position to serve their communities, and it is essential that library leadership reflects the richness and diversity of those communities.
Those interested can visit ACLA’s website (aclalibraries.org/the-talent-bank) and submit an expression of interest. An individual’s information will be sent to their local library for consideration. Libraries will independently reach out to each applicant to discuss volunteer opportunities for boards and/or committees.
“Sometimes finding board members can be difficult because we usually just select people we know,” said Amy Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of the Allegheny County Library Association. “The Talent Bank opens the door to all community members and allows them to self-select how they can help their local library.”
ACLA’s member libraries deliver services in more than 70 locations. Collectively, they jointly offer downloadable books, audios, and videos, the ability for users to borrow tools or cooking equipment, enjoy live readings or music, use a computer or take a tutoring session, along with a diverse calendar of programming events.
Library boards often have a range of subcommittees for individuals to serve. Board and committee service are on a voluntary basis and do not offer financial compensation. Those interested should visit ACLA’s website for more information – aclalibraries.org.
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About the Allegheny County Library Association
Connecting Communities
The Allegheny County Library Association (ACLA) is a system of 46 independent public libraries with more than 70 locations that collaborate and share resources to better serve County residents. These libraries are community connectors providing opportunities for personal and professional development through access to content and experiences for all ages. ACLA libraries support education and exploration while developing early literacy skills, school readiness and lifelong learning. The Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD) is the primary funder of ACLA and has committed one third of its allocations for library service annually since its inception in 1995.
