Frequently Asked Questions about SELCO (Southeastern Libraries Cooperating) and SELS (Southeast Library System)

What is SELCO?

SELCO is an acronym that stands for Southeastern Libraries Cooperating. SELCO is one of 12 public library regions specifically created to strengthen, improve and promote public library service. Public libraries and counties belong to SELCO.[Minnesota Statutes 134.20.]

What is SELS?

SELS is an acronym that stands for Southeast Library System. SELS is one of seven multi-county, multitype library systems. The multitype systems compliment the services of existing networks and improve library and information services by cooperating with all types of libraries. All types of libraries (academic, public, school, and special) belong to SELS. [Minnesota Statutes 134.351]

Are there membership fees to belong to SELCO or SELS?

No.

Is membership mandatory?

Public library membership in SELCO is voluntary and based on a signed agreement with an automatic renewal clause unless one or the other party chooses to change the relationship. County membership is mandatory.
 
SELS membership by all types of libraries -- academic, public, school and special -- is voluntary.

Can my library belong to SELS without being a SELCO Online Library?

Yes, participation in SELCO’s integrated library system is not a requirement for SELS membership.

How are these organizations funded?

The largest portion of the SELCO budget consists of state funds appropriated each biennium by the Legislature as basic system support grants. Local property tax dollars also make up a significant portion of revenue. The Online Libraries purchase basic and value added technology services. Federal grant funds earned through a competitive application process enable SELCO to undertake unique one-time projects, supplementing the revenue stream.

The SELS budget consists entirely of state funds appropriated by the legislature for the multitype cooperation program. SELS is also eligible to apply for federal funds for special, one-time projects.

Who governs these organizations?

In 1971, SELCO was established as a private nonprofit corporation. The Board of Directors currently has 38 members appointed by city and county members of the cooperative. The full board meets quarterly with an elected executive committee meeting and taking appropriate action during the intervening months. The SELCO governing board also serves as the SELS multitype governing authority.

Since 1987 SELS has contracted with SELCO for administration, staffing and program implementation. Since then both organizations have had the same board, same officers and integrate each meeting agenda.

How do members give input?

The SELCO bylaws specify that the chief administrators of the member libraries are the Executive Director’s Advisory Committee. This committee meets at least bimonthly to discuss and recommend regional procedures, policies and programs.

SELS has an elected Advisory Committee consisting of two public library representatives, two representatives of school media services, one representative of special libraries, one representative of public supported academic libraries and one representative of private academic libraries.

How does SELCO/SELS communicate with its members?

SELCO/SELS employs a variety of communication tools including this website, a bimonthly printed newsletter, E-mail, and conventional communication via mail and telephone.

Library staff members, local library board members, and Friends of the library are encouraged to attend SELCO/SELS sponsored workshops and continuing education events which offer wide range of information on diverse topics affecting library service.