STANDING
RULES

Rule 1. MEMBERSHIP
Rule 2. OFFICERS
Rule 3. NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS
Rule 4. COUNCIL
Rule 5. ALA COUNCILOR
Rule 6. EXECUTIVE BOARD
Rule 7. FINANCE
Rule 8. TLA UNITS (DISTRICTS, DIVISIONS, ROUND TABLES, & INTEREST GROUPS)
Rule 9. STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES
Rule 10. EXECUTIVE OFFICE AND SERVICES
Rule 11. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Rule 12. MEETINGS
Rule 13. STANDING RULES
Rule 14. BYLAWS CHANGES

Rule 1. MEMBERSHIP

A. Individual members shall receive:

1. A membership card;
2. Official publications of TLA;
3. All general association mailings;
4. A listing in the Membership Directory.

B. Institutional and Commercial

1. Institutional members shall:

a. Receive all general Association mailings;
b. Receive a listing in the membership directory;
c. Receive official publications;
d. Receive a membership plaque;
e. Receive no Division, Round Table, or Interest Group membership;
f. Receive no entitlement to vote.

2. Commercial members shall receive recognition commensurate with their support of TLA.

C. Affiliate members shall:

1. Receive one copy of all TLA publications to one designated member;
2. Be allowed exhibit space and membership meeting space at Annual Conference on a lowered priority basis.

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Rule 2. OFFICERS

A. The President shall:

1. Be the official representative of the organization or name a designee;
2. Represent the Executive Board at District meetings not attended by the President-Elect;
3. Appoint a Representative-At-Large to represent the Executive Board in the event that either the President or President-Elect is unable to attend District meetings;
4. Represent TLA at the ALA Legislative Day in April of the year that the term of office begins. If unable to attend, the incoming President-Elect will be the representative using funds from the President's travel account;
5. Call Council and Executive Board meetings;
6. Preside at Executive Board, Council, Annual Assembly, and Membership meetings;
7. Coordinate the work of all TLA Units;
8. Appoint, with recommendations of the Executive Board prior to making assignments, committees and designate committee chairmen with the exception of the Nominating Committee;
9. Inform each Committee chairman at the beginning of each fiscal year, that an amount not to exceed thirty percent (30%) of the Committee's previous fiscal year allocation may be encumbered or spent before the budget for the fiscal year is approved;
10. Inform the Chairman each year of the responsibility to examine the Committee's "charge" and make appropriate suggestions and recommendations;
11. Act as liaison to Standing Committees and Units as designated;
12. Plan with the Public Information Committee the materials and/or project for the year;
13. Appoint no fewer than three tellers to count ballots or votes;
14. Be responsible for overall Conference planning;
15. Approve the Conference Program Committee's selection of theme and format for the Annual Conference;
16. Appoint a member of TLA to attend all meetings of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. The representative is to notify the President, Chairman of the Legislative Committee, and Legal Counsel of any matters discussed relevant to the legislative program;
17. 1Direct the TLA Legal Counsel to notify TLA representatives of all meeting dates of the State Library and Archives Commission;
18. Contribute a "President's Column" to each issue of the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL, in order to communicate to membership a necessary overview of the activities of the Association;
19. Sign checks for authorized payment of TLA expenditures in the absence of the Executive Director;
20. Designate Executive Board members to serve as liaisons with TLA Standing Committees and Units.
21. Appoint TLA members to attend meetings of the Texas State Board of Education and then report relevant concerns or actions to the TLA Executive Board, TLA Legislative Committee Chairperson, and TLA Legal Counsel.

B. The President-Elect shall:

1. Preside at meetings in the absence of the President;
2. Assume the office of President after serving a term of one year as President-Elect, except under circumstances specified in Article IV, Section 4;
3. Represent the TLA Executive Board at District meetings not attended by the President;
4. Perform such duties as assigned by the President and the Executive Board;
5. Act as liaison to Standing Committees and Units as designated by the President;
6. Appoint a Conference Evaluation Committee which shall be responsible for program evaluation of the conference at which the President-Elect serves as President-Elect and for a survey of topics for the next year's conference.
7. Announce the names of TLA Corporate Sponsors, any company contributing $5000.00 or more to the Texas Library Association during a Conference year, at the Second General Session of the Annual Conference.

C. The Treasurer shall:

1. Report on the state of the finances of the Association at Council meetings, the Membership meeting during Annual Conference, and meetings of the Executive Board;
2. Specify the type and frequency of such financial reports deemed necessary and desirable to ascertain the status of the Association's finances from the office of the Executive Director and will review the financial reports on at least a quarterly basis;
3. Monitor all investments of the Association to ascertain that the maximum earnings on investments consistent with sound investment methods have been achieved and to advise the Executive Director and Executive Board on future investment opportunities;
4. Work with the Budget Committee to recommend the selection of the auditor for approval by the Executive Board;
5. Review the preliminary and subsequent findings of the auditor with the Executive Director and the Budget Committee;
6. Review the auditor's findings with the Executive Board and shall ensure timely compliance with audit recommendations;
7. Review the periodic financial reports of the Association distributed to the Board or the membership including the summary reports of disbursements and revenues of the Annual Conference;
8. Provide an appropriate oversight process to ensure the adequacy of the system of internal controls and to ensure an appropriate financial risk management program for the Association;
9. Update for approval by the Executive Board an investment policy and a business plan for the Association;
10. Review policies and practices with the staff and management to ensure the Association’s compliance with all widely accepted professional accounting standards for a well-managed nonprofit organization;
11. Make recommendations as to whether adequate funds are available before the Association initiates new projects and services;
12. Not be empowered to bind the Association to any financial obligations; shall not receive any monies; and shall not be empowered to issue or draw any funds;
13. Be an individual qualified by virtue of education or experience in the area of financial management;
14. Serve as liaison to the Scholarship and Research Committee.

D. The Representatives-At-Large shall:

1. Represent the Executive Board at District meetings when the President or President-Elect is unable to attend;
2. Perform such duties as assigned by the President;
3. Act as liaison to the Standing Committees and Units as designated by the President.
4. Act as a contact person for members who wish to ask questions or to bring concerns to either the Executive Board or the Council.

E. The Immediate Past President shall:

1. Serve as chair of Budget Committee and Conference Manual Committee;
2. Act as liaison to Standing Committees and Units as designated by the President;
3. Represent the TLA Executive Board at District meetings if necessary;
4. Serve as consultant to the contributing editor for the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL column that contains Association news.

F. The ALA Councilor shall:

1. Serve as a voting member of the Executive Board and Council;
2. Act as liaison to Standing Committees and Units as designated;
3. Represent the Executive Board at District meetings when the President or President-Elect is unable to attend.

G. Vacancies

In the event a member of the Executive Board is absent without due cause from two meetings during the tenure of office, the position shall be declared vacant by Council and a new election shall take place according to the Bylaws, Article IV, Section 4.

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Rule 3. NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS

A. The Nominating Committee shall:

1. Nominate two candidates for the offices of President-Elect, Treasurer, ALA Councilor and Representatives-At-Large. In the event that a candidate must withdraw prior to the balloting, a replacement shall be named by the committee;
2. Accept any written petition signed by twenty-five (25) members as nomination for any office, such petitions to be accompanied by written acceptance from the nominee and to be received by the Nominating Committee Chairman in accordance with the Committee's Calendar as stipulated in these STANDING RULES.
3. Report the candidates' names to the Executive Board no later than Annual Assembly.

B. Elections

1. Tellers shall make a written report of results to the President and the Nominating Committee;
2. A majority of total votes cast elects.
3. Should an election result in an exact tie between candidates, the person currently holding the contested position would continue in office until a new election could be held.

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Rule 4. COUNCIL

A. Duties

1. Approve the annual budget of TLA, provided that the Executive Board has the power to amend the budget within the limits of the total budget approved;
2. Authorize a membership referendum on questions of policy;
3. Fill vacancies in the office of Treasurer and among Representatives-At-Large on the Executive Board;
4. Determine District boundaries;
5. Grant permission for members to speak on issues;
6. Retain all powers not otherwise provided for in the BYLAWS;
7. Resolve a conflict in the election of officers;
8. Be responsible for TLA long-range planning.

B. Vacancies

1. In the event that a member of Council, other than an Executive Board member, is absent without due cause from two meetings during tenure of office, the position shall be declared vacant by Council and a new election shall take place according to the Unit's Bylaws.
2. No person shall have more than one vote on Council.

C. Meetings

1. Council may, by majority vote, allow TLA members to address the Council.
2. Council must meet after Divisions and Round Tables have met at Annual Conference.
3. Tape recordings of Council meetings are to be placed in the archives after official minutes are approved.
4. Minutes of all Council and Executive Board meetings must be forwarded to the Bylaws Committee Chairman and the Parliamentarian.

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Rule 5. ALA COUNCILOR

A. Convene and lead a caucus of Texas Librarians attending ALA Conferences to discuss issues and concerns before the ALA Council.
B. Deliver reports to Council and the Executive Board relating to ALA activities.
C. Attend Chapter Relations Committee meetings and Chapter Council Caucus during ALA Conferences.

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Rule 6. EXECUTIVE BOARD

A. Meetings

1. At least one of the regularly scheduled meetings each year shall be held in the headquarters city. This shall be exclusive of any meetings held at Annual Conference or Annual Assembly.

B. Finance

1. The Immediate Past President shall be responsible for coordinating preparation of the annual budget for TLA.
2. The Executive Board shall approve a member of the Executive Board to sign checks in the event of the incapacity of the Executive Director and President.
3. The Executive Board shall determine bonding requirements for the Executive Director and Conference Treasurer.

C. Expenses

1. Reimbursement of transportation and hotel room expenses shall be paid to members for Board meetings except those held in conjunction with the Annual Conference and Annual Assembly.
2. "Working meals" during meetings of the Board shall be paid by the Association. (Individual members must pay for their alcoholic beverages.)
3. No other personal expenses shall be paid by the Association to any Executive Board member unless authorized by the Board.

D. Publications

1. The Board approves by majority vote the Publications Committee's selection of the Editor(s) of the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL.
2. Advertising and subscription rates as recommended by the Publications Committee shall be approved by the Board.
3. The Book Review Policy for the Publications Committee shall be approved by the Board.

E. Appointments

The Board shall review the President's appointments to Association Committees.

F. Awards

The Board shall approve the establishment of all new awards including Unit awards.

G. Legislation

The Board shall assume responsibility for addressing legislative issues not included in the TLA legislative platform. Actions shall be based on the advice of the TLA Legislative Committee.

H. Texas Bluebonnet Award Program

1. Monitor the financial accountability of the TBA Program as a self-sustaining committee. This includes directing an annual audit of the TBA Program.
2. Monitor the use of the TBA trademark/logo and take legal action against infringements associated with its use.
3. Appoint a liaison to the TBAC to communicate the concerns/interests of the Board and the TLA Office to the TBAC.
4. Appoint the Coordinator of the TBAC from a list of candidates provided by a joint committee of the Executive Boards of TASL and CRT. Based on an annual evaluation of this Coordinator, approve or reject the continuation of this appointee.

I. Texas Media Awards Program

1. Monitor the financial accountability of the TMA Program as a self-sustaining committee. This includes directing an annual audit of the TMA program.
2. Monitor the use of the TMA trademark/logo and take legal action against infringements associated with its use.
3. Appoint a liaison to the TMAC to communicate the concerns/interests of the Board and the TLA Office to the TMAC.

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Rule 7. FINANCE

A. TLA Accounts/Budget

1. Base amount for the Reserve Account shall be ten percent (10%) of the annual operating budget.
2. Savings account will be designated the Working Reserve Account.
3. Financial statements are mailed to the Board as requested.
4. The Executive Director will construct a formal statement of the scope, purpose, and procedures used to handle each TLA bank account at the beginning of each fiscal year.
5. The Executive Director will date each check appropriately and note any unusual debits with a memo on the financial report.
6. TLA will maintain a safety deposit box at the bank for the safekeeping of savings certificates and other documents.
7. Amounts budgeted for committee work may not be used for unbudgeted expenses unless authorized by the Board.
8. Increases or decreases of ten percent (10%) or more from the prior year in a budgeted line item must be footnoted and explained. A ten percent (10%) or more increase in a unit's overall budget must be footnoted with an explanation for the same by the submitting Unit or Committee Chairman.

B. Price schedule for Membership lists and labels shall be established by the Executive Board with the advice of the Executive Director.

C. When tour conductor passes are available to the Association, the following order for assignment shall be: for ALA meetings -- Executive Director, President, ALA Councilor, President-Elect, Representative-At-Large, either senior or chosen by lot; for State meetings the order shall be -- Executive Director, President, President-Elect, senior Representative-At-Large. Further, the ALA Councilor may receive a check for $200.00 or a tour conductor ticket plus the balance of the $200.00.

D. No personal expenses or honorariums shall be paid by TLA for TLA members and other Texas librarians presenting at Annual Conference, Annual Assembly, or District meetings with the exception of Executive Board members representing the Association at District meetings and TLA members and other Texas librarians who speak at District meetings other than their own.

E. Reimbursement, at a rate/amount established by the Executive Committee of any TLA unit, of transportation expenses incurred for travel to Annual Conference and/or Annual Assembly may be budgeted and paid by TLA units to unit officers and/or Councilors.

F. TLA will act as fiscal agent for the NEH and LSCA grants for the standard eight percent (8%) indirect cost.

G. The conference financial report is due in time for the conference check to be deposited by June 30.

H. Library schools will be charged for operating expenses for Alumni Dinners, ie., tickets, phone calls, etc.

I. Conference Registration

1. Single day registration is required for all meal functions except the Friends and Trustees luncheon.
2. Conference registration will be provided, without charge, to the Chairman of Local Arrangements Committee, Chairman of Conference Program Committee, and Chairman of Local Arrangements subcommittees.
3. Program participants who are not members of TLA shall receive complimentary registration.

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Rule 8. TLA UNITS (DISTRICTS, DIVISIONS, ROUND TABLES, AND INTEREST GROUPS)

A. Unit Finance

1. All expenditures must be submitted to the Executive Director as bills, receipts, or signed statements approved by the unit chairman.
2. Budgets shall not be proposed which could create a deficit in the unit's account.
3. Unit financial accounts must be settled by June 1.
4. Unit budgets may include, at a rate/amount established by the Executive Committee of any TLA unit, transportation expenses incurred for travel to Annual Conference and/or Annual Assembly may be budgeted and paid by TLA units to unit officers and/or Councilors.

B. Unit Exhibit Space

Units may be permitted exhibit space at cost for Conference in which sufficient booth space is available. "Sufficient space" will be determined by the Exhibits Chairman and will be allocated annually on a first-come, first-served basis.

C. District Meetings

1. Districts shall schedule a Fall Program and Business meeting. The date shall be set by the time of Annual Assembly.
2. Districts shall provide fifteen minutes on the program for a general TLA presentation by the Executive Board's Representative.

D. Unit Resolutions

Resolutions from any Unit which pertain to State legislative action must be routed to the Legislative Committee of the Association for review and recommendation before presentation to the Council by the Bylaws and Resolutions Committee. All other resolutions must be routed to the Bylaws and Resolutions Committee for review before presentation to Council.

E. Duties of Unit Chairman

1. Attend briefing meeting for new Chairmen conducted at the Annual Conference by the President and Executive Director.
2. Obtain and use official TLA stationery.
3. Meet all deadlines set for Chairmen by the Executive Board, Executive Director, Council, Chairmen of TLA Committees, or TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL editor.
4. Plan and arrange for elections within the unit. Results of elections must be reported to the President and to the Executive Director.
5. Send to the Executive Director the minutes of all Unit meetings, results of elections, and reports of committees. At both the Annual Assembly and Annual Conference, give the "Instant Minutes" to the Executive Director before leaving the meeting, followed by comprehensive minutes within two weeks. Report to the Executive Director all appointments, resignations, and/or changes of address for Unit Officers.
6. Schedule, prepare for, and chair meetings of the Unit. These meetings will vary with each unit but will ordinarily include meetings at the Annual Conference. Districts will also schedule a fall meeting. Planning for these meetings should begin at least six months in advance and may include naming of a planning or local arrangements committee. This planning will include the following:
   1. Choose speakers, coordinating with the TLA Program and other Unit heads to emphasize the conference theme and to avoid duplication;
   2. Make contact with speakers, agree on honorarium or fee, travel expenses, etc., to be paid within the budget;
      1. Chairmen are required to arrange transportation and rooms for guest speakers at annual meetings. The Unit will not be permitted to schedule speakers or programs which exceed the budget of the particular unit. Moreover, Chairmen cannot enter into a contract which obligates TLA until the contract has been countersigned by the Executive Director.
      2. Planning for the guest speakers includes:
         • Arrange travel details and hotel accommodations for all guest speakers.
         • Arrange conference registration and meal tickets with the Executive Director who will charge the Unit's account when issuing the registration payments.
         • Request checks for honorarium to be prepared by the Executive Director. These are to be picked up at the meeting of presiding officers at the opening of Annual Conference.
   3. Coordinate room arrangements with the TLA Program Chairman, Local Arrangements Chairman, and Executive Director.
   4. Coordinate meal functions with the Conference Meals Committee. Unit Chairman may wish to appoint a local arrangements person to work with this committee. The Unit Chairman will be responsible for seating arrangements, head table, microphones, lecterns, etc. After the menu is chosen, the price should be set to cover the cost of the meal including tax, gratuities, and other related expenses as necessary. The Unit Chairman will also make arrangements for the sale of tickets at registration.
7. Prepare and submit a skeletal budget (using Budget Request Form No. 6) to the Executive Board through the Executive Director by May 15. Document expenditures and submit invoices (Request for Reimbursement Form No. 1) to the Executive Director by June 1 for the close of the year.
8. Send copies of all major correspondence and general mailings to the Executive Director, including correspondence received by the Chairman if it impinges on TLA as a whole.
9. Submit to the Bylaws and Resolutions Committee, six hours in advance of Council meetings, all motions/resolutions voted during the meeting of the Unit which require Council action. All resolutions not submitted in advance will require two-thirds vote of Council for consideration.
10. Submit any intended publications to the Publications Committee of TLA which will assure the quality of the publications.
11. Contact the Executive Office prior to asking a prospective exhibitor to underwrite a program, supply a speaker, provide refreshments, prizes, etc.
12. Notify the TLA Awards Committee Chairman of all awards to be presented by the unit.
13. 1Notify the TLA Scholarship and Research Committee Chairman of all awards/grants to be presented by the Unit.
14. Adhere to the TLA archives policy.
15. At the conclusion of his/her term as District Chairman, the Immediate Past Chairman shall serve a one year term as the Volunteer Coordinator for his/her district and work cooperatively with the District Planning Committee and its chairman in identifying and recruiting volunteers for the TLA Annual Conference activities.

F. Joint Committees

Units may have joint committees with other Units. Each Unit's Bylaws must include the joint committee with terms of office, method of appointment, and duties of the committee specified. The Executive Board Liaison to the sponsoring units will also be the liaison for the joint committees.

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Rule 9. STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

A. COMMITTEE MEMBER QUALIFICATIONS

All persons appointed to serve as TLA committee members and chairpersons must be members in good standing of TLA prior to April 30th each year throughout the term of his/her appointment. Persons not fulfilling this requirement shall be replaced by TLA president.

B. COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Schedule, prepare agenda, conduct and maintain records of all meetings. Meetings should be scheduled during Annual Conference, Annual Assembly, and at other times as deemed `necessary by the Chairman. Instant minutes (Form No. 5) of each meeting must be sent to the Executive Director within twenty-four hours, followed by comprehensive minutes within two weeks of the meeting;
2. Prepare and submit a budget (Form No. 6) to the Executive Board through the Immediate Past President by May 15. Obtain prior authorization from the Executive Board for projected expenses not budgeted. All expenditures must be documented and invoices submitted (Form No. 1) to the Executive Director for reimbursement by June 1, of the year following the close of term of office;
3. Study Committee goals and any special instructions from the Executive Board, determine and execute a plan of action and cooperate with all TLA units in accomplishing goals;
4. Attend all Council meetings and be prepared to report on Committee activities. If unable to attend, appoint a representative. Obtain from the representative all materials and information distributed at the meeting;
5. Report to the Executive Director and President all resignations and/or changes of address;
6. Prepare progress reports, one to be submitted by December 1, and one to be submitted at least four weeks prior to Annual Conference. Copies shall be sent to the Executive Director and President;
7. Adhere to the TLA archives policies and procedures;
8. Transfer all files to the incoming standing committee chairman at the end of Annual Conference.

C. AWARDS

1. Encourage the membership to solicit nominations through TLA district and unit contacts, website and electronic distribution list postings, and publications of TLA and other organizations.
2. Members of the Awards Committee and their employers / organizations cannot be considered for any awards being given during their tenure on the committee. 
3. Evaluate recipients of each award according to the following criteria:
   1. LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR
      This award is given to a librarian who has provided extraordinary leadership or service within the library community in the past 12-18 months.  TLA membership is a requirement for this award.
   2. DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
      This award is given to a librarian who demonstrates substantial leadership to the profession and provides outstanding and continuing service in one or more areas of the library profession.  TLA membership is a requirement for this award.
   3. LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
      This award is given to a librarian in recognition of exemplary career in librarianship.  Considerations for the selection of award recipients should include an extended record of service,active participation in professional organizations, and demonstrated creative leadership and service to the library profession.
   4. OUTSTANDING SERVICES TO LIBRARIES AWARD
      This award, which can be given to an individual or to an organization, recognizes outstanding lay advocates of libraries. It may be given in relation to such activities as the advancement of library services, the promotion and development of sound library policies and standards, the successful advocacy of the library to the community, and a significant contribution to the promotion of library legislation, or active participation in TLA.
   5. WAYNE WILLIAMS LIBRARY PROJECT OF THE YEAR
      This award is made in recognition of the project that exemplifies the highest levels of achievement, professional standards, and inspiration to other libraries. Any library project in operation during the previous calendar year, in any type of library, may be recommended for this award. Nominations may be judged on the breadth of the project, as well as the extent to which a library has improved its service by means of the project described. A project which involves more than one library may be considered for this award. The award recipient(s) will be awarded a cash amount from the annual earnings of the Wayne Williams Fund, with the exact amount determined by the Executive Board.
   6. LIBRARIES CHANGE COMMUNITIES AWARD
      This award is given in recognition of a collaborative community effort to promote outstanding library-based initiatives in Texas. Its aim is to recognize good practices in any innovative library-related effort that involves community, demonstrates imagination and innovation, and has the potential to be developed and adapted elsewhere.  A community can be defined in the broad or narrow sense depending on the collaborative effort.  "Communities" could include schools, public libraries, TexShare community, friends groups, colleges, etc.
   7. BENEFACTOR(S) AWARD
      These awards are made in recognition of substantial donations  such as land, buildings, stocks, cash, and collections  by individuals, institutions, and foundations that have made a significant contribution to libraries and their programs.
4. Notify the Executive Director of award recipients.
5. Notify -- in strict confidence -- the nominators of all awards. Librarian of the Year, Distinguished Service, Lifetime Achievement, and Outstanding Services to Libraries award recipients will not be notified ahead of the formal presentation.
6. Furnish texts of citations and lists of local media contacts to the Executive Director prior to Annual Conference.

1. Membership of this committee is composed of members of the Executive Board and one Unit Councilor, as provided for in BYLAWS Article X, Section 2.
2. Unit or Committee chairmen who submit a budget with an increase or decrease of ten percent (10%) or more from the prior year, must submit an explanation for that increase/decrease. If the Committee approves the request, this documentation must accompany the final budget proposal to the Executive Board and to Council.
3. Documentation explaining the reasoning behind assumptions made for anticipated income and expenditures shall be provided to Council at the time of the presentation of the proposed annual budget. Such documentation shall include, but not be limited to, the previous fiscal year budget and the actual expenditures made during the year.
4. Motions made in meetings requiring expenditures of TLA funds shall be referred to the Budget Committee. The Committee must report the motion to Council with recommendations before the close of the Council session.

1. Bylaws

1. Reviews and studies the BYLAWS AND STANDING RULES, and recommends amendments and changes to either document to Council as provided in Article XVI of the Bylaws.
2. Receives and processes to the appropriate Council meeting all proposed amendments to the BYLAWS AND STANDING RULES received from members and units of the Association. The Committee will edit any proposed amendments to state them in proper form but will not change the intent of the proposed amendment.
3. Makes recommendations to Council regarding proposed amendments to the BYLAWS AND STANDING RULES.
4. Gives notice of proposed amendments to Bylaws/Standing Rules to the members of Council and/or membership in advance of the Council meeting when the proposed amendments will be considered.
5. Studies and checks the Bylaws of the Districts, Divisions, Round Tables, and Interest Groups to insure that they are not in conflict with the TLA Bylaws and Standing Rules.
6. Approves, in conjunction with the Awards Committee, the establishment of all new awards including unit awards.
7. Assures that all proposed amendments to the BYLAWS mailed for membership vote shall be accompanied by an information statement to provide a factual background or statements for and against the proposed changes as required in these STANDING RULES.

2. Resolutions

1. Receives all resolutions from members and units of the Association.
2. Puts all resolutions into proper form without making any substantive changes. This includes rewording the resolutions for clarity of intent in consultation with the maker or designee of the resolution. Where similar resolutions are offered, duplications are to be eliminated.

3. Motions/Resolutions

1. All motions pertaining to BYLAWS shall be referred to the Bylaws Committee prior to presentation to Council.
2. All motions with fiscal implications shall be referred to the Budget Committee for review and recommendation prior to presentation to Council.
3. All motions with legislative implications shall be referred to the Legislative Committee for review and recommendation prior to presentation to Council.
4. All resolutions must be received by the Committee at least six hours prior to presentation to Council and/or Membership. A three-hour limit is in effect when resolutions result from meetings held on the same day as Council.

1. The Conference Steering Committee shall:

1. Be composed of the President, Executive Director, Program Chairman, Local Arrangements Chairman, and Conference Manager;
2. Formulate policies and procedures relating to the Annual Conference;
3. Determine overall conference schedule, calendar, etc.

2. The Conference Program Committee shall:

1. Select with the approval of the President, the theme and general format of the Conference;
2. Select Conference speakers:
   1. (Contact (or invite) speakers;
   2. Write letters of confirmation and contracts with speakers;
   3. Obtain biographical information on speakers;
   4. Select hosts/hostesses for Conference speakers;
3. Inform Division and Round Table Chairmen of the Conference theme and general format;
4. Report on Conference plans at Annual Assembly;
5. Receive and prepare material for the Conference's printed program.

3. Conference Local Arrangements Committee

The committee is responsible for handling all the logistics of the Annual Conference that are appropriate to the local level.

4. Conference Manual Committee

1. The members of the committee shall be the Immediate Past President (Chairman) President, President-Elect,, immediate past Chairman of the Conference Program Committee, immediate past Chairman of the Local Arrangements Committee, and other members who have served in key positions on either the Conference Program Committee or the Conference Local Arrangements Committee within the preceding three years.
2. The committee shall:
   1. Maintain an up-to-date Conference Manual;
   2. Serve as an advisory group for the Conference Program Committee and the Conference Local Arrangements Committee.

5. Non-affiliated Groups

The Executive Board and Conference Committees shall:

1. Affirm the present policy of an "open conference" and continue to consider the requests of non-affiliated groups for meetings at the Annual Conference;
2. Instruct the Conference Program Chairman to give absolute priority to TLA groups (Units) in the allocation of meeting times and locations;
3. Provide that any non-affiliated groups requesting conference facilities will be approved by the Conference Program Chairman and the Conference Manager. If there is any doubt that the group has goals compatible with TLA's goals, the group's request will be submitted to the TLA Executive Board for consideration;
4. Schedule no meetings of non-affiliated groups on the two heaviest conference days, presently Thursday and Friday. The only exception to this rule is the Library School business meetings/dinners which have become an accepted part of the Conference schedule;
5. Assess a meeting arrangements service fee and/or ticket handling charge to any group that is not an official TLA Unit;
6. Assess charges for audio-visual equipment provided by the conference facilities and for food and beverage; g. Follow the same policies and procedures which govern all TLA group meetings;
7. Alert people of early meetings of non-affiliated groups by announcements printed and sent out with the pre-conference mailing. No charge will be made for this service;
8. Place official program listings at the back of the program with the referral note at the head of the first meeting day.

Performs various activities assisting TLA in its continuing education efforts, including but not limited to:

1. Assessing the needs of the TLA membership in regard to continuing education and sharing the results and recommendations with TLA stakeholders in a timely manner;
2. Advising the TLA Continuing Educatino (CE) Specialist.
3. Cooperating with the Continuing Education Providers Interest Group and the TLA CE Specialist to insure that TLA members are informed of CE and development programs produced by TLA and others.

1. Provide a forum to research, monitor, discuss, and address diversity issues and trends.

2. Encourage and facilitate diversity in TLA leadership and leadership development.

3. Provide recommendations and the information needed for the establishment of TLA policies, actions, and initiatives.

4. Provide mentoring opportunities for the TLA Spectrum Scholarship recipients.

1. Coordinates TLA’s response to all types of disasters that severely affect libraries in Texas.
2. Raises funds to build the Disaster Relief Endowment
3. Prepares and distributes guidelines and the grant application form; determines from the TLA Executive Director the dollar amount available for grant award; and evaluates the application based on the following criteria:
   1. Extent of damage sustained
   2.  Impact on service;
   3. How the funds will be used;
   4. Availability of public and private funding (or insurance) to assist recovery efforts;
   5. Willingness to allow library’s name to be used in publicity efforts;
   6. Institutional members of TLA will receive an incremental increase in the grant award.
4. Provides training and resource materials on the prevention of disastes and on recovery strategies.
5. Notifies the TLA Executive Board of the condition of libraries experiencing disasters and the grant amount needed to provide assistance.
6. Evaluates the effect of the grant award.

1. Work with District Chairmen to develop a unified program.
2. Provide the following to the Districts at TLA Annual Conference and Annual Assembly:
   1. General TLA information;
   2. Sample programs for meetings in other Districts;
   3. Packets of information to include:
      1. Names of potential speakers;
      2. Sample agenda;
      3. National and State trends;
      4. Checklist of "do's" and "don'ts" for the District meetings;
      5. Calendar of Procedures.
3. Assist other chairmen in promoting Association programs throughout the state.
4. Coordinate dates of District meetings to avoid conflicts in attendance by the President or President-Elect
5. Communicate to District Volunteer Coordinators their responsibilities in identifying and recruiting volunteers for TLA Annual Conference activities.

1. Determine the focus of the grant program in collaboration with representatives of Highsmith, Inc.
2. Publicize the availability and timeline for the grant program through electronic discussion lists, workshops and meetings of librarians to ensure a broad-based pool of applicants.
3. Maintain the Highsmith Award grant process, including designing the application forms, evaluating the proposals, selecting the grant recipients; and notifying all applicants, the donor, and TLA executive director of the selection decisions.
4. Promote the marketing projects of current and past winners, encouraging Texas librarians to use and build upon the winner's successful ideas.

1. The TLA Archives shall be maintained by the Executive Office. Active and semiactive records shall be kept at the Office to meet legal requirements. Inactive records shall be maintained at the Texas State Library. The History of TLA Committee will oversee the process of collecting and maintaining the documentation required for the archives. All TLA Units, Committees, and Officers shall adhere to the TLA Archives policy. These documents shall be used to preserve the history of the Association and to provide continuity for current and future activity in the Association.
2. The committee shall:
   1. Interview past TLA Presidents and other persons who have made significant contributions to TLA and the library profession;
   2. Record these interviews on tape and maintain the tapes in the archives;
   3. Encourage and oversee the collecting of the records and other archival materials of TLA, including those of the Central Office, the Divisions, Round Tables, Interest Groups, Districts, TLA Committees, and papers of TLA officers, in order to ensure that appropriate historical documentation of TLA be maintained in the Archives;
   4. Encourage use of the TLA archives by working with the designated TLA archives repository to ensure broad distribution of finding aids and other information;
   5. Develop and oversee a records management program for the central TLA Office.

1. Work with the Legislative Committee to watch proposed legislation which would restrict or interfere with the selection and acquisition of materials and other professional activities of libraries.
2. Attempt to eliminate restrictions imposed on the use, or selection of library materials or selection judgment; receive requests for advice and assistance where freedom has been threatened or curtailed; and recommend action to the Executive Board where it appears necessary.
3. Encourage all libraries to develop a written statement of policy for the selection of library materials which includes an endorsement of the LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS.
4. Support an active educational program for librarians, trustees, and the general public regarding the LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS and ALA FREEDOM TO READ STATEMENT.
5. Advise others of the TLA position on issues of intellectual freedom concern and cooperate with other organizations having similar concerns.
6. Promote the following policies:
   1. Legislation TLA is concerned with legislation at the federal, state, local, and school district level which tends to strengthen the position of libraries and other media of communication as instruments of knowledge and culture in a free society. The Association is also concerned with monitoring proposed legislation at the federal, state, local, and school district level which might restrict, prejudice, or otherwise interfere with the selection, acquisition, or other professional activities of libraries, as expressed in the American Library Association's LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS and FREEDOM TO READ STATEMENT;
   2. Interference TLA is concerned with proposed or actual restrictions imposed by individuals, voluntary committees, or administrative authority on library materials or on the selection judgments, or on the procedures or practices of librarians;
   3. Materials Selection Policy TLA believes that every library, in order to strengthen its own selection process and provide an objective basis for evaluation of that process, should develop a written official statement of policy for the selection of library materials;
   4. Education TLA is concerned with the continuing education of librarians and the general public in understanding and implementing the philosophy inherent in the LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS and ALA FREEDOM TO READ STATEMENT;
   5. Liaison with Other Organizations TLA, in order to encourage a united front in defending the right to read, shall cooperate with other organizations concerned with intellectual freedom.
7. Assist with the administration of the Sam Whitten Intellectual Freedom Fund. Applications for grants from the fund shall be considered initially by a review committee composed of the Chairman of the Intellectual Freedom Committee, the Executive Board Liaison to the IF Committee, and an additional member elected from and by the Intellectual Freedom Committee. Recommendations from this review committee shall be forwarded to the TLA Executive Board for final approval.
8. Administer the SIRS Award, a cash award, that may be presented annually to an individual, who within ten years prior to receipt of the award, has demonstrated commitment to Intellectual Freedom in Texas. Applications, available from the TLA Executive Office, will be reviewed by the Intellectual Freedom Committee which will forward the recipient's name to the TLA Executive Board and the Awards Committee. The SIRS Award is to be presented during an Intellectual Freedom Committee sponsored-program/meeting at the TLA Annual Conference of the award year.
9. Publish the TLA Intellectual Freedom Handbook and review it annually for revisions.

1. Coordinate leadership development activities for the Texas Library Association
2. Develop a cadre of individuals for future leadership roles in the profession
3. Expand the diversity of leadership development activities
4. Increase the diversity of participants in leadership development activities
5. Track the leadership advancements of participants in leadership development activities
6. Plan leadership development activities such as the Leadership Development Institute which will include the selection of participants, publicity, program development and curriculum development, site selection, and fund raising.

1. Establish and maintain an effective network for contacting legislative representatives.
2. Keep the Association informed on state and federal legislation affecting libraries.
3. Promote legislative support for library legislation.
4. Work closely with the TLA Legal Counsel to examine existing laws and proposed legislation in order to make recommendations to the Executive Board.
5. Determine ways to cooperate with the state government agencies affecting library services.
6. Coordinate activities with the Washington, D.C., ALA Office through the TLA Legislative Committee Chairman.
7. Present requests for legislative help to the Board, Council, or Legislative Committee. Requests from only one type of library must come as a result of official action of the Division.
8. Award the Sam Gerald Whitten Memorial Legislative Grant to cover the expenses of a delegate to attend the Texas Library Association's Legislative Day in Austin during the odd numbered years, and the American Library Association's Legislative Day in Washington, D. C. during an even numbered year.
9. Appoint as ex-officio, non-voting members the following, representatives of agencies and other organizations who have an interest in TLA's Legislative Programs as they are recommended by the TLA Executive Board.
10. Appoint as ex-officio, voting members all TLA Unit Legislative Chairmen.

1. The purpose of this committee is to foster greater cooperation among libraries of various types and non-library partners, including but not limited to non-profit organizations, hospitals, government agencies, museums, historical organizations, and corporations.
2. Membership of this committee shall be of a minimum one (1) Chair, one (1) Executive Board Liaison, ten (10) committee members, the TLA President, and the TLA Executive Director.  Chair and committee members are appointed by the TLA President with recommendations solicited from the TLA Divisions
3. The committee shall:
   1. Identify ways to improve understanding and communications among libraries of all types
   2. Plan and promote multi-type partnerships
   3. Identify funding opportunities and coordinate grant efforts for cooperative ventures.
   4. Share training and continuing education opportunities.
   5. Promote resource sharing.

1. The committee shall represent literacy, such as basic literacy and English as a Second Language (ESL) activities, to the Association and other interested parties.
2. The committee shall communicate with public and private literacy agencies throughout the year.
3. The committee shall maintain a Literacy Committee web site.
4. The committee shall serve as a referral source for libraries to literacy resources.
5. The committee shall provide continuing education activities at TLA Annual Conference, such as programs, workshops, and professional reading discussion groups.

1. Actively recruits new and non-renewing members to TLA and encourages continuing members to retain their memberships. Assists TLA units with their membership promotion activities. Distributes membership information at each District meeting and at other library meetings as appropriate. Develops plans to target special groups, such as library school students, lay persons, and library advocates. Recommends policies for the recruitment of institutional and organizational members of TLA.
2. Works closely with the Executive Director to establish a calendar of committee activities and recommends content and strategic focus for membership promotional materials.

1. Consent to serve prior to election by TLA Executive Board to committee service.
2. Request funds in budget to provide information and ballots to membership.
3. Select the best qualified candidates for each office. Candidates from different types of libraries and from different geographic areas must be considered.
4. Contact the Executive Director to verify membership and participatory history before initial contact with the prospective candidates.
5. Provide relevant information to prospective candidates concerning the amount of travel, expenses, time, etc. required for service in an office before the candidates accept the nominations.
6. Obtain vita, short statements of TLA concerns or interests, and a 3 x 5 glossy photo for announcement of nominations and for the TLA official ballot. Nominations made by petition must be so indicated in the announcement but not on the official ballot.
7. Report to the Executive Board. Slate of nominees for office becomes public information at the time of the Committee's report.
8. Prepare, mail, and receive ballots according to the following procedure:
   1. The name of the President-Elect is to be included on the ballot with a statement that no balloting for this office is necessary;
   2. Ballots must be mailed as a part of the TLACAST at a bulk mail rate not less than six weeks prior to Annual Conference, and include a deadline for return of ballots not less than three weeks prior to Conference;
   3. Computer-produced mailing labels with an accompanying printout will be used as proof of ballot mailing. Postage receipt must tally with number on the printout.
9. Assume all responsibilities for the conduct of the election not provided for in the Bylaws.
10. Observe the following calendar:
    1. Annual Conference --First meeting of Nominating Committee
    2. May to July --Consider and secure written acceptance of candidates.
    3. Before Annual Assembly --Report slate to Executive Board.
    4. Annual Assembly --Report on activities to Council
    5. September 1 --Receive the vita, picture and statement of concern from candidates
    6. December 1 --Deadline for written petition, vita, picture, and statement of concern for petition candidate
    7. February 1 --Submit ballot for inclusion in TLACAST
    8. Three weeks prior to Conference --Receive ballots completed by members
    9. Two weeks prior to Conference --Submit ballots to tellers and submit tellers report of counted ballots
11. Consider all meetings of the Nominating Committee closed under the definition of closed meetings in Article XIII, Section 3.
12. Members of the Nominating Committee cannot be considered for any office during their tenure on the Nominating Committee.

T. PROFESSIONAL RECRUITMENT and RETENTION

1. Develops and disseminates information about the profession to prospective librarians, and provides information about opportunities for library and information science professional education available to Texans. 
2. Develops, identifies and disseminates information about recruitment issues and the best practices for recruiting librarians into Texas libraries.
3. Develops, identifies and disseminates information about effective practices for retaining librarians in our organizations and in the profession.
4. Supports efforts to increase diversity within the profession and to foster recognition of the value of workforce diversity in Texas libraries.

1. Oversees the development and promulgation of guidelines that support the highest level of personal integrity and professional competence of librarians in the State.
2. Supports adherence to principles of due process and equality of opportunity in peer relations and personal actions.
3. Supports and communicates to membership the policies of State and National Associations in such subjects as Comparable rewards, Equal Opportunity in Employment and Salaries, Fair Employment Practices, and Professional Ethics.
4. Regularly surveys and reviews pertinent data for updating the minimum entry-level salaries for librarians with master’s degrees in library science and/or information science and recommends adoption of appropriate changes to the minimum level salaries.
5. Defines ways in which TLA applies the minimum level salary guidelines.
6. Publicizes widely to all libraries and hiring authorities throughout the state the minimum entry-level salary adopted for librarians with master’s degrees in library science and/or information science.

1. Be responsible for all public relations interests and activities of the Association not otherwise assigned in these BYLAWS and STANDING RULES.
2. Promote the maximum use of libraries and the expansion of library services throughout Texas by encouraging strong community involvement and awareness of the important role of librarians and libraries in Texas.
3. Stimulate better and more effective communication among the members of the Association and all librarians in Texas.
4. Communicate the goals, objectives, and priorities of the Association to the membership and the public.
5. Plan and coordinate special promotion and publicity programs for all library-related observances.
6. Consult with TLA Committees, Units, and Affiliates for effective and coordinated publicity and promotion.

1. The Publications Committee creates broad policy for publications, regardless of format, for the Texas Library Association in consultation with Texas Library Association staff.  The Executive Board approves publication policies created by the Publications Committee.
2. The Publications Committee provides oversight and reviews and submits revisions to the Editorial Manual for the Editor(s) of the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL to the Executive Board for approval.
3. The Publications Committee functions in an advisory capacity for TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL, for the TLA Web site, and for all other publications, regardless of format, distributed beyond the membership of a unit or committee with the exception of TLACast.
4. The Publications Committee reviews all publications, regardless of format, created by any TLA Unit or Committee for distribution beyond the membership of the TLA Unit or Committee.
5. TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL
   1. The Publications Committee functions in an advisory capacity for TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL.
      1. Reviews and recommends editorial policies for the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL and provides oversight for the implementation of these policies.
      2. Advises the Editor(s) and suggests authors to invite for articles or editorials and themes for issues of the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL.
      3. Serves as a channel for member communication regarding the scope and coverage of the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL.
   2. The Publications Committee advises the Executive Board on the position requirements for the Editor of the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL.
   3. The Editor(s) will prepare and submit to the Publication Committee at Annual Conference a calendar of deadline dates for submission of copy to be published in the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL. These dates will also be filed with the Executive Director.

6. The Publications Committee creates Web Publishing Guidelines for approval by the Executive Board

1. Serves as the Scholarship and Research Committee for both the TLA and the TLA Foundation.
2. Publicizes the availability of scholarships, research grants, and other such awards as authorized or approved by the Executive Board(s). Monies are granted for research funds, for conference stipends, and for scholarships. Scholarships, research grants, and stipends are profiled in a flyer which is updated annually, based upon available funding and distributed no later than September of the year preceding the award.
3. Receives applications no later than the advertised date.
4. Evaluates the applications for scholarships using the following criteria:
   1. Strong interest in librarianship as a profession as demonstrated by plans to be a candidate for an ALA accredited Master's Degree in Library and/or Information Science.
   2. At least provisional admission prior to TLA Annual Conference to an ALA accredited school in Texas of the applicant's choice.
   3. Evidence of good academic scholarship during the last two years of college.
   4. Resident of Texas.
   5. Following the awarding of the scholarship, the recipient is required to maintain current student status in good standing for at least one subsequent semester.
5. Evaluates the applications for grants using the following criteria:
   1. Membership in TLA.
   2. Research must benefit libraries and improve services in libraries.
   3. The grant recipient(s) must submit by July 15 of the year following the awarding of the research grant a summary article for consideration for publication in the TEXAS LIBRARY JOURNAL.
6. Evaluates applications for other awards using criteria approved by the Executive Board(s).
7. Selects the most outstanding candidates by the Spring of each year.
8. Reports to the President. The Executive Director then notifies the winning candidates and the Chairman of the Scholarship and Research Committee notifies all other applicants.
9. Makes all necessary announcements to the appropriate places.
10. Uses the following procedures in transferring funds to recipients:
    
    1. The recipient will provide acknowledgement and acceptance in writing to the President.
    2. The recipient of a scholarship will provide proof of enrollment from the Library School to the Executive Director at the beginning of each semester.
    3. The Executive Director will send a check for the appropriate amount.
11. Coordinates the awarding of grants, scholarships, and stipends by TLA and TLA Units with appropriate notification of conference stipend winner two months prior to the event. All grants, scholarships, and stipends awarded by Units of TLA shall be reported to the TLA Scholarship and Research Committee as soon as granted.
12. Members of the Scholarship and Research Committee cannot be considered for a scholarship or research grant during their tenure on the committee.

1. Purpose
   1. The Texas Bluebonnet Program Committee coordinates the activities associated with the Texas Bluebonnet Award Program (TBA), which is jointly sponsored by the Texas Association of School Librarians and the Children's Round Table of TLA. This Committee administers a reading award program designed for Texas children in grades 3-6, who vote for a favorite book from a selected reading list prepared by the TBA Committee.
   2. The mission of the Texas Bluebonnet Award program, since 1979, is to promote reading by children in grades 3-6. Its goals are to introduce children to a variety of quality books, develop critical reading, honor and encourage imaginative authors.
2. Membership
   1. The Texas Bluebonnet Program Committee is comprised of 11 members: the Texas Bluebonnet Coordinator, ten members from CRT or TASL. These 10 members are appointed by the TLA Chair-Elect.
   2. Ex-officio, non-voting members are: the TLA Executive Director, the TLA Executive Board Liaison appointed by the TLA President-Elect, the TASL Chair, the CRT Chair, and the TBA Intern Coordinator.
3. Responsibilities
   1. Participates in guiding and directing the educational focus of the TBA Program.
   2. Publicizes the TBA selected reading list.
   3. Monitors the production and distribution of all publicity and promotional materials associated with the program.
   4. Assists in coordinating arrangements for the Awards ceremony at Annual Conference with the host unit for that particular year.
   5. Assists in monitoring the use of the TBA trademark/logo and apprise the TLA Executive Board of any infringements associated with its use.
   6. Creates activities that will generate publicity and promote the TBA.
   7. Participates in continuing education activities devoted to children’s reading habits.

1. Purpose
   1. The Texas Bluebonnet Selection Committee coordinates the activities associated with the Texas Bluebonnet Award Program (TBA), which is jointly sponsored by the Texas Association of School Librarians and the Children's Round Table of TLA. This Committee administers a reading award program designed for Texas children in grades 3-6, who vote for a favorite book from a selected reading list prepared by the Texas Bluebonnet Selection Committee.
   2. The mission of the Texas Bluebonnet Award program, since 1979, is to promote reading by children in grades 3-6. Its goals are to introduce children to a variety of quality books, develop critical reading, honor and encourage imaginative authors.
2. Membership
   1. The Texas Bluebonnet Selection Committee is comprised of 11 members: the Texas Bluebonnet Coordinator, five members from CRT and five members from TASL with the ten representatives representing each of the ten TLA districts. These ten members are appointed by the TLA Chair-Elect.
   2. The ten district representatives of the Texas Bluebonnet Selection Committee must be involved in the delivery of library services to children.
   3. Ex-officio, non-voting members are: the TLA Executive Director, the TLA Executive Board Liaison appointed by the TLA President-Elect, the TASL Chair, the CRT Chair, and the TBA Intern Coordinator.
3. Responsibilities
   1. Participates in guiding and directing the educational focus of the TBA Program in conjunction with the Texas Bluebonnet Program Committee.
   2. Prepares a selected reading list for the TBA Program, based on extensive reading and outside suggestions submitted to the Committee.
   3. Holds at least two book suggestion meetings each year to coincide with the TLA Annual Conference and Annual Assembly where members have an opportunity to suggest titles for consideration on the upcoming TBA master list. These meetings should be advertised to the general membership prior to the Conferences and in the Conference program.
   4. Assists with the production and distribution of all publicity and promotional materials associated with the program.
   5. Assists in coordinating arrangements for the Awards ceremony at Annual Conference with the host unit for that particular year.
   6. Assists in monitoring the use of the TBA trademark/logo and apprise the TLA Executive Board of any infringements associated with its use.
   7. Participates in annual continuing education activities devoted to the issues of literary quality and merit, materials selection, and intellectual freedom.

1. Promote and provide assistance to the Texas Book Festival, as needed, including publicizing the Texas Book Festival to the library community and helping to broaden the participation throughout the state in Festival activities.
2. Organize and staff the Texas Library Association booth annually during the Texas Book Festival.
3. Assist with the design of a Texas Book Festival booth during TLA Annual Conference.
4. Design and deliver workshops for Texas librarians interested in applying for Texas Book Festival funds.
5. Maintain the Texas Book Festival grant process including the design of application criteria, forms, and scoring processes as well as the annual review and selection of grant applications.

1. Purpose: The Texas Media Awards Committee coordinates the activities associated with the Texas Media Awards Program (TMA), which is jointly sponsored by the Media and Related Technologies Round Table (M(RT)²) and the Texas Library Association. This Committee administers an annual competition to promote excellence in amateur media production in Texas.
2. Membership: 
   1. The Texas Media Awards Committee is comprised of six members appointed at-large and six members of M(RT)^2.
   2. Ex-officio, non-voting members are the TLA Executive Director, a liaison from the TLA Executive Board who is appointed by the TLA President and the Chair of M(RT)².
3. Responsibilities
   1. Administer the annual competition and monitor the production and distribution of all publicity and promotional materials associated with the program.
   2. Arrange for the posting of contest information on the TLA website. The entries will be sent to the TLA address listed on the contest forms. Each entry must be accompanied by a self-addressed postcard to confirm receipt of the entry. A log of entries will be maintained by the TMA chair. No entries will be returned.
   3. Arrange for qualified, impartial individuals to judge the entries and select the award winners.
   4. Select the "Bob Bennett Best of Show Award" from the top entry in each category.
   5. Coordinate arrangements for the Awards ceremony at Annual Conference.
   6. Assist in monitoring the use of the TMA trademark/logo and apprise the TLA Executive Board of any infringements associated with its use.

AC. TEXAS-MEXICO
RELATIONS

1. Purpose: The Texas-Mexico Relations Committee fosters cooperation among library professionals in Texas and Mexico; provides means for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and resources between Texas and Mexican Librarians; and enhances communication between them for the benefit of library patrons in both countries.
2. Membership: The Texas- Mexico Relations Committee is comprised of 15 members, including the Chair, who is appointed for a two-year term. Members are appointed for three years with the possibility of one additional term.
3. Responsibilities
   1. Administer the Texas- Mexico Librarian Exchange Program, which is funded through the Fideicomiso para la Cultura Mexico-USA.
   2. Pursue alternative sources of funding to ensure the continuity of the Texas-Mexico Librarian Exchange Program when present funding is terminated.
   3. Establish joint representation at the annual library conference of AMBAC (Mexican Library Association) and the Texas Library Association (TLA).
   4. Support the ongoing interlibrary loan project to facilitate the exchange of materials between Texas and Mexican libraries.
   5. Coordinate the implementation of distance education programs for librarians in Texas and Mexico by establishing contact with institutions of higher education in both countries that offer programs in Library and Information Science.
   6. Establish a formal program of materials donation in Mexican libraries.

1. Purpose: The Tocker Foundation Committee coordinates the activities associated with the Tocker Foundation grant program, which awards cash grants to small public libraries serving predominantly rural populations. This Committee assists the Foundation Board in the annual review and recommendation for funding grant applicants.
2. Membership
   1. The Tocker Foundation Committee is comprised of the Chair, one member of the Public Libraries Division, one member of the Small Community Libraries Round Table, one member of the Automation and Technology Round Table, and one other at-large member.
   2. Ex-officio, non-voting members are the TLA Executive Director and a liaison from the TLA Executive Board.
   3. Members of the Tocker Foundation Committee cannot submit an application for Tocker Foundation funding for their institution during their tenure on the Committee.
3. Responsibilities
   1. Assist the Tocker Foundation Board in the publication, evaluation, and recommendation of grant awards to small public libraries serving rural populations.
   2. Hold at least three meetings each year. Two such meetings will coincide with the TLA Annual Conference and Annual Assembly and one meeting as needed to accommodate the grant cycle of the Foundation.
   3. Provide expertise and advice to the Tocker Foundation Board on the award criteria and application process.

1. The purpose of this committee is to award grant funds from the Christina B. Woll Memorial Fund to libraries for the purchase of children's books.
2. Chair and committee members are appointed by the TLA President.
3. The committee shall:
   1. Advertise the grants and set a deadline for applications
   2. Select recipients of the grants based on the following information:
      1. The applying library is located in Texas and includes children under the age of twelve (12) in its service populations.
      2. The description of the library, its current holdings, and the population it serves.
      3. Information about the total library budget for purchase of all materials.
      4. The name(s) of the persons(s) who will be selecting and purchasing the books.
      5. A listing of all relevant library staff members with professional qualifications.
4. Recipients of the grants will furnish the chair of the Woll Committee with a report detailing expenditure of the funds, accompanied by supporting documentation, such as invoices. Special bookplates will be furnished for the books purchased through grants.
5. The TLA Executive Director will notify the chair of the dollar amount available for grant award each year.