MLTA is another source of information and advice for trustees and boards. Orientation is only the first step. It is a primary responsibility of the chairman of the board to be sure that the orientation procedure is carried out for every new board member. It is difficult to remain effective without fresh ideas, improved techniques and variety in the approach to good library service. To be a good trustee requires time and training.
Trustees bring many skills to their trusteeship on the public library board.
However, they need to understand the needs and requirements of the institution they serve. Continuing education will be the way by which trustees can develop the necessary skills and abilities that will help them in fulfilling the responsibilities of trusteeship. It is important that trustees avoid isolation, take advantage of opportunities for exposure to and exchange of ideas with others in the library field. This will benefit the trustees and thus their institution and add quality to the service their library will provide in the future. The fresh insight trustees gain at trustee workshops and programs help provide new ideas for becoming a more effective trustee.