Designed as a comprehensive reference manual for all California trustees, commissioners, regional council members, and system advisory board members interested in learning and understanding their professional public library roles, this manual provides a pro-active approach to library leadership. Following an introduction to and an overview of California library boards and libraries, individual chapters cover: (1) statutory authority; (2) library funding; (3) legal duties, liabilities, and rights; (4) effective board organization; (5) systematic planning process; (6) policy setting and budget-making; (7) public/community relations; (8) working relationships; (9) library advocacy; (10) special challenges; and (11) helpful organizations. Related material is provided in 26 appendices. A 59-item bibliography and a listing of 24 recommended readings are also included. (KM)