State Library Division State Library Board minutes, 1957-

This series consists of the written minutes and accompanying material for the Utah State Library Board. Organized by the Utah State Library Commission, now the Utah State Library Division, the board began meeting in July 1957 following the implementation of the Library Services Act the year before. This act provided federal funding for the expansion of library services to rural areas. One of the first orders of business for the board was the creation of the State Plan for Further Extension of Public Library Services to Rural Areas, and to select a State Librarian. Now the State Library Director, the person in that role continues to "keep a true and accurate account of all proceedings of the meetings" (State Library Board By-laws).

Agendas distributed to board members prior to the meeting often follow a format of minutes approval, new and continuing business (such as legislative updates and grants), division director's reports, and program reports or updates. Personnel matters have also been occasionally handled by the board. In later years, a packet of materials is provided with full written reports and news articles of interest.

Topics under consideration align with the mission and services of the division, including library development, distributing federal funds and grants, services for the blind and visually impaired, and developing standards for public libraries (Utah Code 9-7-205). Historically, a range of issues were handled as information, libraries, and technologies evolved significantly over the decades. The division and its advisory board continually worked to respond to these new realities of the library profession by providing support for librarians and organizations like the Utah Library Association to improve library services and access to information.

Members of the board consist of one recommended by the State Board of Education and one by the Utah System of Higher Education within the total of nine. Also, at least two members must be from rural areas of Utah (Utah Code 9-7-204). Meetings are at least quarterly, with the option for more frequency when needed. They are often hosted at different libraries across the state.