Budgeting and Finance for Public Libraries

About

Money isn't generally the first topic that comes to mind when thinking about libraries, however it is a critical resource that touches every aspect of the organization. Whether you are an aspiring manager or a library director, it is important that your organization's finances are aligned with your service goals and priorities.

This course, part of the Public Library Management Professional Certificate program, will help you understand how to build a budget, read financial reports, and plan for the long-term sustainability of your library.

What you will learn

• Budgeting and financial concepts and terms as they apply to public libraries
• How to analyze financial reports
• The decision making and strategies that go into creating a budget
• Best practices in establishing financial controls and procedures
• How today’s financial decisions can impact future sustainability of your organization
• How to develop a financial forecast

Skills you learn

• Finance
• Financial Statements
• Library Management
• Auditing
• Budgeting

Syllabus

Lessons: 1. Introduction
2. Starting with a Piece of the Budget
3. Expenditures
4. Forecasting Expenditures
5. Revenues
6. Building the Budget
7. Financial Management, Auditing, and Control
8. Planning for the Future

Auto Summary

"Budgeting and Finance for Public Libraries" is a foundational course in the Arts & Humanities domain, offered by edX. Ideal for aspiring managers and library directors, it teaches budgeting, financial report analysis, and long-term financial planning. Part of the Public Library Management Professional Certificate program, this course ensures your library's finances align with service goals. Available through a professional subscription.