By-laws

Article I – Purpose

The purpose of the Susquehanna Library Cooperative is to strengthen library resources and services in the area through resource sharing, continuing education programs, professional development opportunities, and greater communication.

Article II – Membership

Libraries eligible for membership are those located in north central Pennsylvania maintaining a viable library that meets the primary needs of its users, and able to meet the established membership responsibilities. Member libraries may withdraw from the Cooperative at any time. New members must be approved by a two-thirds vote of all members of the Council. Consistent failure to meet Cooperative obligations shall be cause for the consideration of disenfranchisement; any vote voiding membership must be by a two-thirds vote of all members of the Council.

Article III – Governance

The Governing body of the Cooperative shall be the governing Council, consisting of the Chief Librarian or a designated representative from each library. The Council shall meet at least two times a year. One Council member shall serve as Chair and another as Secretary-Treasurer. The chairmanship shall rotate among the members in alphabetical order by Institution, each term being two years and beginning September 1. If an institution is undergoing transition when its term comes up, another institution may volunteer to serve the two-year term. If a Chair is unable to complete a term, the council shall appoint a member to complete the term. The original rotation will then pick up again. The Council shall elect one of its members as Secretary-Treasurer. Alternatively, the Council may choose to elect one of its members as Secretary and another as Treasurer in lieu of the combined position. The term of office for Secretary-Treasurer shall be determined by the Council but shall be not less than two years. The Council’s duties shall be to carry out the purpose and objectives of the Cooperative through its officers, committees and programs. Special meetings shall be called by the Council as needed.

Article IV – Continuing Education

Because continuing education is a primary purpose of the Cooperative, at least one continuing education program or event will be held each year. The Council members shall be responsible for planning and coordinating these events on a rotating basis.

Article V – Dues

Dues may be levied as needed.

Article VI – Parliamentary Authority

Council meetings will be governed by the latest edition of Robert’s Rules of Order.

Article VII – Amendments

These by-laws may be amended by a two-thirds vote.

Adopted June 4, 1973
Article II - Revised January 27, 1989
Articles II and III - Revised August 13, 1999
Article I - Revised February 9, 2001
Articles III and VI - Revised August 26, 2002
Articles II and III revised and new Article IV inserted, August 1, 2008.
Approved August 1, 2008