The guidebook presents historical, legal, and practical information on the role of the board of trustees in North Carolina public libraries. Six sections detail the following: (1) matters relating to the powers and duties of trustees and to the internal operations of the board; (2) the relationship between the board and the chief librarian as it concerns policy formulation and execution; (3) the relationship between the board and the library staff with regard to staffing and organization; (4) financing, budgeting, and the restrictions involved; (5) statutory law regarding library networks, the advantages of networks, bookmobiles, and interstate compacts; and (6) the history, administration, services, and special functions of the North Carolina State Library. A bibliography provides both general and specific references of interest to the administrator, and includes a list of available films and filmstrips. The North Carolina Library Law, model bylaws for a library board of trustees, and suggested personnel policies comprise the three appendices. (FM)