Shape Library Services in Tompkins County

Published on March 14, 2025

The Tompkins County Legislature seeks individuals with a strong interest in supporting and shaping library services to join the Tompkins County Public Library (TCPL) Board of Trustees. The Board has three vacancies and invites interested county residents to apply. This is a volunteer opportunity with a 3-year term and requires attendance at monthly board and committee meetings. Members are appointed by the Tompkins County Legislature.

The Tompkins County Public Library serves approximately 104,000 residents in the county. In addition, TCPL is the Central Library for the Finger Lakes Library System, serving libraries and patrons in Tompkins, Tioga, Cortland, Seneca, and Cayuga counties. The TCPL Board provides administrative oversight of the library’s operations, consistent with its mission to meet and celebrate the aspirations of the community and foster opportunities for people of all ages to discover, connect, and create throughout Tompkins County. This includes appointing and supervising the library director, promoting the best use of library resources, evaluating existing services, formulating policies, and approving the budget. Individuals who are library users, willing to learn more about library operations, and committed to transparent oversight of TCPL are encouraged to apply.

Legislator Amanda Champion (D-Ithaca) states: “Participation as a Trustee on the Tompkins County Public Library Board is an excellent opportunity to help shape the future of this beloved community treasure.”

Applicants must complete an Advisory Board Application form to indicate interest in serving on the TCPL Board. The form may be obtained from the Clerk of the Legislature office at the Governor Daniel D. Tompkins Building (Old Court House), 121 E. Court Street, Ithaca. The entrance is on the Dewitt Park side of the building. You can also download an electronic application form.

Applications may be dropped off at the Clerk of the Legislature office, mailed to the Clerk of the Legislature, emailed to legislature@tompkins-co.org, or faxed to 607-274-5430 by Friday, March 28th. The Interview Committee will hold interviews in mid-April. Minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please call the Clerk of the Legislature office with any questions at (607) 274-5434.

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