System Member Standards
Standards for Member Libraries within Alberta's Regional Library System (PDF)
Standards may be defined as a degree or level of requirement, excellence or attainment that serve as a point of reference for comparison and evaluation. They are a framework for planning and achieving "best practice" and excellence in the management and provision of library services. At the same time, standards provide a baseline measure for providing an essential, or basic, level of service.
The focus of these standards is the resources that member libraries within regional library systems need in order to provide a full range of 21st century library services to their residents.
The partnership between systems and their member libraries is earmarked by decentralized delivery of library services supported by centralized provision from the system headquarters of technical, technological and consultative services, special collections and other services.
These standards:
- ensure equity in the level and delivery of library services for residents of Alberta's regional library systems;
- are a point of reference for self-evaluation;
- provide a rational framework for future development;
- accommodate change in policy, technology and formats of materials; and
- encourage cooperation.
These standards allow a library board to select a level - essential, enhanced or excellent - at which it will provide a particular service. Needs assessments and local conditions will help the board as it determines which services it will offer at which level. Headquarters staff and member library boards and staff work together to meet the selected level of service.
- Essential level provides basic library service;
- Enhanced level builds on the essential service; and
- Excellent is the highest level of service.
All Alberta public libraries can use these guidelines as a point of reference and discussion.
Contact: bonnie.gray@gov.ab.ca or 780-427-4871
