(1) Public libraries receiving state payments must meet the following essential standards by July 2007 and each year following.

(2) General essential standards for public libraries are as follows:

(a) The library is established under Montana's laws according to 22-1-301 through 22-1-317 , 22-1-701 through 22-1-1711 , or Title 7, MCA.

(b) The board conforms to all applicable state, local, and federal laws, rules, and regulations.

(c) Monthly, or at least quarterly, library board meetings are held in an accessible location at times and a place convenient to the public and according to state laws on public meetings.

(d) The library submits the Montana Public Library Annual Statistical Report to the Montana State Library.

(3) General enhanced standards for public libraries are as follows:

(a) In order for the board to be knowledgeable about current library issues, new board members receive an orientation by the library director, a trustee, and/or others.

(b) On an annual basis, board members report on how they have promoted and supported the library, its programs, and services.

(c) Library board meetings are held every other month.

(4) General excellent standards for public libraries are as follows:

(a) The library provides for continuing education for its trustees by allocating funds to support continuing education costs, including travel expenses.

(b) At least two members of the library board will attend a regional or statewide library related activity each year.

(c) Board members will discuss library issues with local government officials at least twice a year, and state and/or national government officials at least once a year.

(d) Every three years, the board will review, evaluate, and compare its own governance structure with different governance structures for the library. This includes districting, county library systems, etc.

(e) At least three library board members join any professional library association and dues are paid by the library.