The authority of city library boards may differ from municipality to municipality. Understanding the reason for these differences is vital for library trustees and for elected government officials. As mentioned above, there are six different types of Michigan public libraries. The state statutes authorizing the establishment of these libraries govern not only the powers and duties of the library boards, but also the relationship, if any, with local government authorities. A closer look at two types of libraries will clarify this distinction.
Real differences occur according to the establishment model used.
In contrast, city libraries established by city charter, ordinance or special act may or may not have autonomous boards. The language of the establishment instrument will determine the board's duties and powers. The library may be a department of city government and subject to the administrative rules and regulations of the municipality. The board may be answerable to a nonelected city official, such as the city manager. These distinctions have very real consequences for the board' s ability to hire and fire staff, determine the library budget, manage and build library facilities, and raise money.