The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees consists of five members appointed by the Newton City Council to serve six-year terms. The Board has direct control of library operations, employs a library director, makes final approval of the purchase of library materials, has exclusive control of all library funds, contracts with other library boards for services, and is required to make an annual financial report to the Newton City Council. 

You may view the monthly board meeting agendas on the City of Newton Meeting Agendas and Minutes.

Contact the Library Board

Rita Baker 2026
President
Ward 4
ritabaker2013@yahoo.com

Darcy Soule 2026
Vice President
Ward 3
souled@newton.k12.ia.us

Juana McConnell 2022
Secretary
Ward 1
juana126@hotmail.com

Terry Townsend 2022
Treasurer
Ward 2
townsend_2@windstream.net

Noreen Otto 2024
At-Large
noreenotto@gmail.com

Become a Library Trustee

The Newton Public Library accepts applications for Library Trustees on an ongoing basis. Applications may picked up at the Library Information Desk or printed online, and should be returned in-person to the Library Information Desk.

Library trustees work with the Director to develop and adopt governing policies, approve operation budgets, and advocate for the library through contacts with general public, civic organizations and public officials. Applicants must be a citizen age 18 or older, registered voter, and resident of the city of Newton. 

View the complete position description

Download an application