To read the Association Bylaws (9-28-2015), click here.
GOVERNANCE
The Ladies’ Library Association (LLA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by a Board of Directors. The Board includes an Executive Committee made up of officers elected by the membership, chairs of standing committees, a parliamentarian, and the immediate past president.
The Board represents the membership of the LLA and oversees daily operations. This includes managing its finances, supporting community outreach efforts, and keeping our historic building accessible and available to the public.
The LLA is governed by Bylaws and Policies. A link to the “Bylaws” is at the top of this page. Members receive an annual Yearbook containing a member directory and a list of all committees and special interest groups. Program information is announced in bimonthly newsletters and periodic email communiqués. A link to the “Member Only Calendar” is at the top of this page.
Refer to the annual Yearbook / Directory to find a committee or group chair to learn more information.
STANDING COMMITTEES
Unless otherwise noted, the following committees are open to interested LLA members.
Budget-Finance
Meets with LLA Treasurer to prepare annual budget.
Building and Grounds
Oversees maintenance, security, and upgrades to LLA property.
Subcommittees include:
Circulating Library – Manages small lending library on first floor for member use.
Historian – Serves as resource for member and public research about the LLA.
Vintage Library – Maintains remaining volumes of the original lending library housed in locked bookcases in the Main Library on the first floor.
Bylaws
Revises and updates LLA Bylaws as needed.
Community Outreach Evaluation (CORE)
Evaluates and initiates community outreach and partnerships with other nonprofits in Kalamazoo. Membership of three rotates, with new member appointed by each LLA President.
Books for Babies – Collects and distributes books donated by members to go to underserved infants and toddlers in the Kalamazoo area.
Kalamazoo Valley River Trail Clean Up – Carries out annual trail clean up.
Communications
Produces a quarterly print newsletter, twice monthly email newsletter, annual Yearbook / Directory, and maintains the LLA website and Facebook page. Works with Board and committee chairs to promote the LLA, including publicity of LLA-sponsored community events.
Filing
Immediate Past President transfers and files records from her term in office.
Membership
Provides membership support. Helps with sponsoring and mentoring new members. Maintains database of current and past members. Chair of the committee sits on the Board.
Nominating
Recruits slate of candidates for the biannual elections. Committee chair is appointed by the President. Two committee members are elected by the general membership.
Programming
Selects programs for member meetings based on areas of interest suggested by members. The committee chair is Vice President of the Board.
Ways & Means
Carries out revenue-generating programs open to LLA members and the community. Subcommittees include:
Audiovisual (AV) – Assists presenters with AV equipment.
Cooking – Prepares meals for member and non-member events.
Decorations – Organizes table and holiday decorations.
Docents – Trained volunteers lead guided tours of the LLA building, highlighting LLA’s history.
Hostesses – Greet LLA members and public arriving for LLA meetings and public events.
Linen Maintenance – Launders table linens.
Reservations – Takes reservations and payment for LLA member events.
Table Setting – Sets tables for member and public events.
Tea – Prepares and serves food for member teas.
SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS *
Arts and Cultural Outings – Small group experiences for LLA members who enjoy visits to museums, galleries, plays, etc.
Book Clubs – Four ongoing groups for club members. Additional groups are welcome.
Bridge Marathon – Annual “friendly” bridge tournament open to all player levels.
Lens Ladies’ Artistry (Photography) – Amateur photography group meeting monthly.
Music Appreciation – Monthly meetings to view opera DVDs in member homes.
Needlecraft – Open to members who crochet, knit, sew or quilt.
* Suggestions for additional groups are welcome. Contact a Board member.