Regional systems of cooperating libraries were established in 1965 to improve existing library services and programs and to extend library services to areas where it was previously unavailable. Library membership and participation in systems has evolved to include libraries of all types. Each system is governed by a board of individuals who are appointed by local libraries (to represent their districts) and by boards of county commissioners (to represent Kansans who reside outside local public library districts). Under this guidance, systems develop and customize the range and depth of services provided. For more information, visit each system's website to the right
Regional system and state library staff maintain three publications to aid libraries in their work. The Kansas Public Library Handbook provides answers to questions and relevant information for conducting library business. The Kansas Public Library Standards help libraries evaluate their current operations and determine ways to improve programs, collections, and information access. The Kansas Public Library Trustee Manuals provides a basic understanding of the laws, rules, and best practices of running a library. Regional system consultants are available to answer questions you have about the topics covered in these publications.
The State Library collects statistics on regional systems that are published annually. Data on membership counts, income and expenditures, staffing, and state aid spending is provided in the reports.
