Appendix E : MBLC Policy on Public Library and School Library Cooperation 

Policy on Cooperation between Public Libraries and School Libraries

Background

Since 1890, the Board of Library Commissioners has been statutorily charged with the responsibility for developing and improving public library services to the residents of the Commonwealth. Since 1965 the Board has also been charged with the responsibility for programs which support resource sharing and electronic networking among Massachusetts libraries of all types. In 1997, the Governor and Legislature authorized the Board to establish six Regional Library Systems open to membership by academic, public, school and special libraries and providing services to all types of member libraries.

The Board of Library Commissioners has statutory authority to establish minimum standards for public libraries receiving State Aid to Public Libraries pursuant to M.G.L. 78, 19A&B. It also has authority to establish eligibility requirements for public and school libraries participating in Regional Library Systems established pursuant to M.G.L.78, 19C and for public and school libraries receiving federal grant funds administered by the Board pursuant to M.G.L.78, 19. The Board has no legal authority to establish standards for school libraries in the Commonwealth.