Join your public library colleagues to learn about, or refresh your understanding of, the library's and its Board of Trustees' legal responsibilities for adhering to the state laws for access to public records and open meetings. Participants will learn how to determine when the Open Meetings Act applies to library board meetings and when an executive session is appropriate. Other statutory requirements, such as posting notices, amending agendas, and maintaining minutes will be discussed. Frequent trouble areas will be reviewed.

After this program, you can establish or update library procedures for open meetings and access to public records. With procedures in place, the process for complying with the laws will be easier when you get requests for library records or are challenged about access to meetings. Important procedural provisions will be discussed, including the way to respond to public record requests and establishing guidelines for public access. Frequent trouble areas and significant legal cases will also be reviewed.

Presenter: Sean Lyness, Special Assistant Attorney General, Rhode Island Office of Attorney General.

Open Meetings (RIGL 42-46)
Most libraries that receive state aid must comply with the open meetings law. Additional provisions were added to the law in 2017, see H 6323.

Access to Public Records (RIGL 38-2)

The session is recommended for library directors, administrators, and trustees. The objectives of this program are distinct from the Public Library Records Management program scheduled for February 27.

If any reasonable accommodation is needed to ensure equal access or participation, contact the Office of Library and Information Services at (401) 574-9300 not less than three (3) business days in advance of the meeting or program date. More advanced notice is highly advisable.