This bill amends Sections 11-90-2 and 11-90-4 of the Code of Alabama 1975, concerning the appointment and governance of county and municipal library boards. The bill introduces changes to the structure and reporting requirements of these boards. It specifies that all libraries created under this section will be supervised by a library board consisting of five members, with each member appointed by the governing body of the county or municipality that established the library. The bill also establishes that library board members will serve four-year terms and can be removed at any time by a two-thirds vote of the appointing authority. Additionally, the bill requires library boards to provide an annual report to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate detailing board membership and actions taken regarding the review or removal of items in their collection.

The bill further addresses the establishment and maintenance of joint library services between different political units, allowing for the creation of joint library boards with the powers and duties of county or municipal library boards. It also clarifies that nothing in the amended sections should infringe upon municipal charter provisions governing existing free public libraries. The bill includes nonsubstantive, technical revisions to update the existing code language to current style and stipulates that the act will become effective on October 1, 2024.

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