The bill amends Sections 11-90-2 and 11-90-4 of the Code of Alabama 1975, focusing on the governance and appointment processes for county and municipal library boards. Key changes include the establishment of a local library board consisting of five members appointed by the governing body of the county or municipality that created the library, with each member serving a four-year term. The bill also introduces provisions for the removal of board members by a two-thirds vote of the appointing authority and mandates that appointments reflect the diversity of the community, including racial, gender, geographic, urban, rural, and economic factors.

Additionally, the bill allows for the creation of joint library services between different political units, enabling them to contract for the establishment and maintenance of libraries. It clarifies that the governing body of a county or municipality can contract with another political unit to create a joint library, and it outlines the powers and responsibilities of the joint library board. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 11-90-2, 11-90-4
Engrossed: 11-90-2, 11-90-4