At ALA Midwinter, the YALSA Board accepted a proposal to broaden the makeup of the Board.
During the 2015-2016 strategic planning process, the Board considered this idea and affirmed the benefits to the Board and organization. By targeting advocates with backgrounds in key areas such as business, corporate partnerships, and fundraising, YALSA’s work can be better supported by leveraging expertise. Including advocates outside of the immediate library teen services community can provide a unique perspective, strengthening the organization and broadening its vision. With this approach to Board recruitment, YALSA can better understand and serve teen needs by adding different voices, skills, and knowledge.
The Board standing committee focusing on Leading the Transformation for Teen Services was tasked with exploring the possibility of changing or expanding the Board’s composition as outlined in the Year 1 Implementation Plan. Taking into consideration industry best practices and examining boards from similar organizations, a two-year pilot was proposed.
The 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 Board Development Committees will identify, vet, and recruit nonmember advocates passionate about serving youth and YALSA’s mission. One advocate will be included on the ballots for the 2019 and 2020 election cycles. In 2020, a team will be assembled to evaluate the impact of adding diverse viewpoints and expertise from beyond the immediate library teen services community. Based on the evaluation, the team will make recommendations on whether or how to continue this Board recruitment process.
View the full proposal board document #27 and learn more about what was discussed in Atlanta by reviewing the 2017 Midwinter Meeting Agenda.
Trixie Dantis
Board Fellow 2016-2017
