Introduction and Mission Statement

INTRODUCTION

A. MISSION STATEMENT

The Elisha D. Smith Public Library exists to serve the needs of its community for informational, cultural and recreational services. The basic service of the library is to collect and share the products of the human mind which have been recorded in print and in other forms. The Elisha D. Smith Public Library shall attempt, through its materials and services, to contribute to the quality of life of the community and each individual member of the community. Library services are provided free of charge so that all citizens might have free and equal access to the information they may need to participate fully in the political, economic and cultural life of their community. Insofar as reasonable and possible, the library will attempt to provide materials representing a wide range of political ideologies, religious beliefs, moral philosophies, subject matters and artistic styles.

B. ROLES

1. To collect, organize, preserve and make available to all members of the community, the books, magazines, records and other materials which will meet the needs of the community.

2. To assist those who need to reach beyond the immediate resources of this library to other libraries and information sources.

3. To promote reading, whether for educational, economic or recreational purposes.

4. To support and complement the activities of the schools and other educational and cultural institutions and groups of the community.

5. To establish the Menasha Library as a cultural center for the community through the use of its meeting rooms, books, audio/visual materials, pictures, art displays, and special programs such as lectures, exhibitions, recitals and workshops in the field of music, fine arts and current topics.

C. GOVERNANCE

The Elisha D. Smith Public Library is governed by a Board of Trustees. Trustees are appointed by the Mayor, approved by the City Council, and serve without payment. Library Board meetings are held at least once a month at a publicly announced time and venue. Regular, Special and Committee meetings are open to the public according to Wisconsin State Law, except for matters of business legally excepted under the law.