Beta Phi Mu Honor Society
By-Laws
ARTICLE I: NAME
The name of this society is Beta Phi Mu, The International Library and Information Studies Honor Society.
ARTICLE II: PURPOSES
The purposes of Beta Phi Mu are to recognize distinguished achievement in and scholarly contributions to library and information studies or library education, and to sponsor and support appropriate professional and scholarly projects related to these fields by:
ARTICLE II: PURPOSES
The purposes of Beta Phi Mu are to recognize distinguished achievement in and scholarly contributions to library and information studies or library education, and to sponsor and support appropriate professional and scholarly projects related to these fields by:
- Awarding scholarships, fellowships, and research grants to qualified students and scholars.
- Publishing newsletters and scholarly works related to, library and information studies or library education.
- Promoting, organizing and holding meetings, seminars, workshops, conferences and similar activities.
ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIP
Section 1: Membership
To maintain active membership, all members must pay the national annual fee. Only active members will have the privilege of voting, holding office, maintaining chapter affiliations, and receiving member benefits. Membership in Beta Phi Mu shall be granted to candidates at any college or university where the American Library Association or other recognized accrediting agency approved by the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board has accredited or recognized a professional degree program, or candidates from all other programs offered under the direction of the same faculty, and who fulfill the following requirements:
Section 2: Graduate Membership
Persons who were not nominated for Beta Phi Mu membership at the point of graduation from an accredited or approved LIS graduate program, but who meet the following requirements, may apply for the category of professional membership:
1. Either
1. Completion of ALL requirements leading to a master’s degree with a scholastic average of no
lower than 3.75 where A equals 4.0
OR
2. Completion of planned programs of advanced study that culminate in a degree beyond the
master’s degree with a scholastic average of no lower than 3.75 were A equals 4.0.
2. A work history as a librarian/information professional and/or LIS faculty member.
3. A record of significant contributions to the LIS field and strong commitment to the Beta Phi Mu
values of scholarship, leadership, and service.
4. Other criteria as approved by the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board.
Applications for professional membership will be reviewed periodically by the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board and must receive a 2/3 majority vote to be approved. Upon approval by the Executive Board, applicants shall be notified of invitation to professional membership and of the next membership meeting at which they may be initiated.
Professional membership is subject to acceptance of invitation and payment of fees. There is a one-year time limit for acceptance of the invitation to join.
Persons elected to professional membership shall have all the privileges of chapter and at-large membership, including: attending all membership meetings of the Society; speaking at meetings and on motions; proposing motions; voting; holding office; and presiding.
Section 5: Non US Members
With the approval of the Executive Board, membership may be granted to candidates of schools outside the United States and Canada who meet the same membership criteria as above.
Section 6: Membership with Chapter Affiliation
Active Beta Phi Mu chapters shall be asked to send annually to Beta Phi Mu Headquarters, a list of candidates with contact information who have met the requirements for membership as specified in these Bylaws (Article III, Sec. 1). The chapter shall notify these persons of invitation to membership and of the next chapter meeting at which they may be initiated.
Section 7: Membership-at-Large
Where no Beta Phi Mu chapter exists, accredited programs shall be urged to send annually to Beta Phi Mu Headquarters a list of candidates with contact information who have met the requirements for regular membership as specified by these Bylaws (Article III, Sec. 1). Upon approval by the Executive Board, applicants shall be notified by the Board of invitation to membership-at-large and of the next membership meeting at which they may be initiated.
Membership-at-large is subject to acceptance of invitation and payment of fees. There is no time limit for acceptance of invitation, but the candidate must provide proof of invitation with payment of fees when accepting invitation to membership.
Section 8: Honorary Membership
Persons elected to honorary membership shall have the privilege of attending all membership meetings of the Society. They may speak at meetings and on motions. They may not, however, propose motions, vote, hold office, or preside.
Nominations for honorary membership may be made to the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board by any regular member or by any chapter through its president. Each recommendation for honorary membership shall be addressed to the President of Beta Phi Mu and be accompanied by the nominee’s vita and a detailed letter of justification for the nomination.
Nominations for honorary membership require election by a two-thirds vote of the Executive Board at any regularly called meeting provided that not less than two-thirds of the voting Board members are present, and provided that the members of the Board have received copies of relevant materials not less than two weeks before the meeting.
Deliberations for honorary membership shall be in the executive session with only the names of those receiving a positive vote being recorded in the Minutes.
Section 9: Honorary Chapter Membership
Chapters may elect persons to honorary membership in the chapter and may determine the criteria and process for such election as well as chapter privileges of honorary membership. Election to honorary Beta Phi Mu membership does not constitute election as to honorary Beta Phi Mu Membership at national level.
Section 10: Notification
Persons eligible for regular membership are invited by the chapter of the program which attests to their eligibility. Candidates without chapter affiliation will be invited to membership by the President of Beta Phi Mu at the direction of the Executive Board. Persons approved for honorary membership will be notified by the President at the direction of the Executive Board. Persons approved by chapters for honorary chapter membership will be notified by the nominating chapter.
Section 11: Initiation
All approved candidates for regular and honorary membership shall be initiated in accordance with procedures and ritual prescribed by the Executive Board or in the case of honorary chapter membership by the nominating chapter.
Section 1: Membership
To maintain active membership, all members must pay the national annual fee. Only active members will have the privilege of voting, holding office, maintaining chapter affiliations, and receiving member benefits. Membership in Beta Phi Mu shall be granted to candidates at any college or university where the American Library Association or other recognized accrediting agency approved by the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board has accredited or recognized a professional degree program, or candidates from all other programs offered under the direction of the same faculty, and who fulfill the following requirements:
Section 2: Graduate Membership
- Either
- Completion of at least 50% of the total hours/credits required for the master’s degree with with a scholastic average of no lower than 3.75 where A equals 4.0
OR - Completion of at least 50% of the total hours/credits required for planned programs of advanced study that culminate in a degree beyond the master’s degree with a scholastic average of 3.75 were A equals 4.0.
- Completion of at least 50% of the total hours/credits required for the master’s degree with with a scholastic average of no lower than 3.75 where A equals 4.0
- Recommendation by the faculty attesting to the candidate’s professional promise.
- Total eligible candidates from a program shall comprise no more than thirty-five (35) percent of the annual graduating class.
- Acceptance of invitation and payment of fees. There is no time limit for acceptance of invitation, but candidates must provide proof of invitation with payment of fees when accepting invitation to membership.
- Completion of at least 50% of the total hours/credits required for the undergraduate degree, with a scholastic average of no lower than 3.75 where A equals 4.0
- Recommendation by the faculty.
- Total eligible candidates from a program shall comprise no more than thirty-five (35) percent of the annual graduating class.
- Acceptance of invitation and payment of fees. There is no time limit for acceptance of invitation, but candidates must provide proof of invitation with payment of fees when accepting invitation to membership.
Persons who were not nominated for Beta Phi Mu membership at the point of graduation from an accredited or approved LIS graduate program, but who meet the following requirements, may apply for the category of professional membership:
1. Either
1. Completion of ALL requirements leading to a master’s degree with a scholastic average of no
lower than 3.75 where A equals 4.0
OR
2. Completion of planned programs of advanced study that culminate in a degree beyond the
master’s degree with a scholastic average of no lower than 3.75 were A equals 4.0.
2. A work history as a librarian/information professional and/or LIS faculty member.
3. A record of significant contributions to the LIS field and strong commitment to the Beta Phi Mu
values of scholarship, leadership, and service.
4. Other criteria as approved by the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board.
Applications for professional membership will be reviewed periodically by the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board and must receive a 2/3 majority vote to be approved. Upon approval by the Executive Board, applicants shall be notified of invitation to professional membership and of the next membership meeting at which they may be initiated.
Professional membership is subject to acceptance of invitation and payment of fees. There is a one-year time limit for acceptance of the invitation to join.
Persons elected to professional membership shall have all the privileges of chapter and at-large membership, including: attending all membership meetings of the Society; speaking at meetings and on motions; proposing motions; voting; holding office; and presiding.
Section 5: Non US Members
With the approval of the Executive Board, membership may be granted to candidates of schools outside the United States and Canada who meet the same membership criteria as above.
Section 6: Membership with Chapter Affiliation
Active Beta Phi Mu chapters shall be asked to send annually to Beta Phi Mu Headquarters, a list of candidates with contact information who have met the requirements for membership as specified in these Bylaws (Article III, Sec. 1). The chapter shall notify these persons of invitation to membership and of the next chapter meeting at which they may be initiated.
Section 7: Membership-at-Large
Where no Beta Phi Mu chapter exists, accredited programs shall be urged to send annually to Beta Phi Mu Headquarters a list of candidates with contact information who have met the requirements for regular membership as specified by these Bylaws (Article III, Sec. 1). Upon approval by the Executive Board, applicants shall be notified by the Board of invitation to membership-at-large and of the next membership meeting at which they may be initiated.
Membership-at-large is subject to acceptance of invitation and payment of fees. There is no time limit for acceptance of invitation, but the candidate must provide proof of invitation with payment of fees when accepting invitation to membership.
Section 8: Honorary Membership
Persons elected to honorary membership shall have the privilege of attending all membership meetings of the Society. They may speak at meetings and on motions. They may not, however, propose motions, vote, hold office, or preside.
Nominations for honorary membership may be made to the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board by any regular member or by any chapter through its president. Each recommendation for honorary membership shall be addressed to the President of Beta Phi Mu and be accompanied by the nominee’s vita and a detailed letter of justification for the nomination.
Nominations for honorary membership require election by a two-thirds vote of the Executive Board at any regularly called meeting provided that not less than two-thirds of the voting Board members are present, and provided that the members of the Board have received copies of relevant materials not less than two weeks before the meeting.
Deliberations for honorary membership shall be in the executive session with only the names of those receiving a positive vote being recorded in the Minutes.
Section 9: Honorary Chapter Membership
Chapters may elect persons to honorary membership in the chapter and may determine the criteria and process for such election as well as chapter privileges of honorary membership. Election to honorary Beta Phi Mu membership does not constitute election as to honorary Beta Phi Mu Membership at national level.
Section 10: Notification
Persons eligible for regular membership are invited by the chapter of the program which attests to their eligibility. Candidates without chapter affiliation will be invited to membership by the President of Beta Phi Mu at the direction of the Executive Board. Persons approved for honorary membership will be notified by the President at the direction of the Executive Board. Persons approved by chapters for honorary chapter membership will be notified by the nominating chapter.
Section 11: Initiation
All approved candidates for regular and honorary membership shall be initiated in accordance with procedures and ritual prescribed by the Executive Board or in the case of honorary chapter membership by the nominating chapter.
ARTICLE IV: ELECTED OFFICERS
Section 1: Elected Officers
The elected officers shall be a President, a Vice-President/President-elect, an immediate Past-President, a Treasurer, and two Directors-at-large.
Section 2: Qualifications
All elected officers must be active members of the Society. The President must have served as a voting member of the Executive Board for at least one year before taking office.
Section 3: Terms of Office
Duties of elected officers are those specified in this section and any others customary to the office or delegated by action of the Executive Board.
The election of the Vice-president/President-elect, Treasurer, and two Directors-at-Large shall be by ballot, either paper or electronic, conducted during the sixty-day period before the annual membership meeting each year.
Section 1: Elected Officers
The elected officers shall be a President, a Vice-President/President-elect, an immediate Past-President, a Treasurer, and two Directors-at-large.
Section 2: Qualifications
All elected officers must be active members of the Society. The President must have served as a voting member of the Executive Board for at least one year before taking office.
Section 3: Terms of Office
- The President shall be elected for a three year term, serving the first year as Vice-president/President-elect, the second year as President, and the third year as immediate Past-president. Persons serving as president may serve no more than two terms.
- The Treasurer shall be elected for a term of three years and may be elected for no more than two consecutive terms.
- Directors-at-large shall be elected for terms of three years and may be elected for no more than two consecutive terms. To provide for continuity, terms should be staggered so one Director-at-large is elected in alternating years.
- Unexpired terms shall be filled by vote of the Executive Board. Terms shall begin at the adjournment of the meeting following election or adjournment of the meeting at which appointment is made.
Duties of elected officers are those specified in this section and any others customary to the office or delegated by action of the Executive Board.
- The President shall direct the affairs of the Society, preside at all Executive Board and membership meetings, appoint a parliamentarian for each meeting, appoint standing committees provided for in these Bylaws (Article VIII), appoint ad hoc committees as appropriate or as the Executive Board directs, write a President’s column for the newsletter, install new chapters or designate a member of Beta Phi Mu (as specified in Article XI, Sec. 6) to install a specific chapter. The President shall make a report to the membership at any annual meetings and to meetings of the Executive Board.
- The Vice-president/President-elect shall serve in the absence of the President, preside at all meetings of the Assembly; and act as liaison between the Assembly and the Executive Board, shall make an annual report to the members of the Society at its annual meeting.
- The immediate Past-President shall serve in the absence of the President and Vice-President/President-elect and shall chair the Nominating Committee.
- The Treasurer shall advise the Executive Board on financial matters, work with Beta Phi Mu Headquarters to develop the budget and assess the fiscal status and needs of the Society, present the annual budget and an annual report to the Executive Board and to the Assembly, and prepare with the assistance of Beta Phi Mu Headquarters for financial audits of the Society.
The election of the Vice-president/President-elect, Treasurer, and two Directors-at-Large shall be by ballot, either paper or electronic, conducted during the sixty-day period before the annual membership meeting each year.
- Nominations by Committee
Up to two nominees for each office shall be reported by the Nominating Committee to the Executive Board of Beta Phi Mu at the appropriate Executive Board meeting at the Midwinter meeting of the American Library Association. Each nominee must meet all the qualifications for an elected officer (Article IV, Sec. 2) and must have consented to serve if elected. - Notice to Chapters
A copy of the slate shall be sent to the chapter president, faculty advisor, and dean or director of the program where each chapter is located not later than fifteen days after the Midwinter meeting of the Executive Board. Election results will be conveyed to nominees and the chapter president, faculty advisor, and dean or director of the program where each chapter is located not later than fifteen days after the election results. - Nominations by Petition
Additional nominations of persons meeting all qualifications for office (Article IV, Sec. 2. and Sec. 5) may be made by petition signed by twenty-five regular members and received by Beta Phi Mu Headquarters not later than March 15. - Ballot
The ballot shall include the name of each nominee presented by the Nominating Committee and by valid petition as well as space for a qualified write-in for each office. - Vote
The nominee receiving the majority of the valid votes cast for each office shall be declared elected. Tie votes will be determined by lot.
ARTICLE V: APPOINTED OFFICERS
Section 1
The Executive Board may create other appointed officer positions as needed (such as Newsletter Editor), appoint persons to them, and set their duties and terms of office.
Section 2: Office Staff
Office Staff may be employed, authorized by the Executive Board as to number, assigned duties, and salary, to work with the Board and be supervised by the President. Staff members may be invited by the President to attend meetings to make reports or present information pertinent to the agenda.
Section 3: Archivist
The Archivist shall serve as the historian and preservation officer of the Society.
Section 1
The Executive Board may create other appointed officer positions as needed (such as Newsletter Editor), appoint persons to them, and set their duties and terms of office.
Section 2: Office Staff
Office Staff may be employed, authorized by the Executive Board as to number, assigned duties, and salary, to work with the Board and be supervised by the President. Staff members may be invited by the President to attend meetings to make reports or present information pertinent to the agenda.
Section 3: Archivist
The Archivist shall serve as the historian and preservation officer of the Society.
- Term of Office
The Archivist shall be appointed by the Executive Board for a term of five years, renewable at the pleasure of the Board - Duties
The Archivist shall report to and advise the Executive Board on archival matters, review archival policy on a five-year basis, and prepare and send material to the University of Illinois Archives on a five year cycle.
ARTICLE VI: NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
Section 1: Location
The national headquarters shall be located at the discretion of the Executive Board.
Section 2: Length of Location
The location of the national headquarters shall be reviewed by the Executive Board at least once every five years.
Section 1: Location
The national headquarters shall be located at the discretion of the Executive Board.
Section 2: Length of Location
The location of the national headquarters shall be reviewed by the Executive Board at least once every five years.
ARTICLE VII: EXECUTIVE BOARD
Section 1: Duties and Responsibilities
The Executive Board is the governing body of Beta Phi Mu. It is empowered to set policy; authorize and dissolve chapters upon petition, review and adopt the annual budget, authorize expenditures for specific activities not included in the annual budget, provide leadership to the chapters through liaison with the Assembly [and by providing chapters with handbooks for guidance, respond to recommendations from the Assembly, authorize seminars and other programs or training, carry out the requirements of these Bylaws, and initiate other activities to carry out the purposes of Beta Phi Mu. Through the President it shall report to the Assembly and to the Membership at all meetings of these bodies.
Section 2: Voting Members
The voting members of the Executive Board shall be the President, Vice-President/President-elect, immediate Past President, Treasurer, two Directors-at-large, and four Directors elected by the Assembly (Article IX, Sec. 5).
Section 3: Qualifications
All voting members of the Executive Board must be active members of Beta Phi Mu.
The President of the Society shall serve as chairperson and the Vice President shall serve as secretary. The President and the Secretary will both have voting privileges.
Section 5: Vacancies
The Executive Board shall appoint to fill unexpired terms. Persons appointed to fill unexpired terms must meet eligibility requirements of the Office.
Section 6: Meetings
The Executive Board shall meet twice a year to coincide with the Midwinter meeting and the Annual Conference of the American Library Association. Additional meetings may be called by the President or by petition by six voting members of the Executive Board. A majority of the voting members shall constitute a quorum except that two-thirds of the voting membership must be present to vote on a nomination for honorary membership (Article III, Sec. 8).
Section 7: Interim Voting
The President may authorize voting by paper or electronic mail or conference call between meetings. Vote results will be reported in the minutes of the next meeting following the vote.
Section 1: Duties and Responsibilities
The Executive Board is the governing body of Beta Phi Mu. It is empowered to set policy; authorize and dissolve chapters upon petition, review and adopt the annual budget, authorize expenditures for specific activities not included in the annual budget, provide leadership to the chapters through liaison with the Assembly [and by providing chapters with handbooks for guidance, respond to recommendations from the Assembly, authorize seminars and other programs or training, carry out the requirements of these Bylaws, and initiate other activities to carry out the purposes of Beta Phi Mu. Through the President it shall report to the Assembly and to the Membership at all meetings of these bodies.
Section 2: Voting Members
The voting members of the Executive Board shall be the President, Vice-President/President-elect, immediate Past President, Treasurer, two Directors-at-large, and four Directors elected by the Assembly (Article IX, Sec. 5).
Section 3: Qualifications
All voting members of the Executive Board must be active members of Beta Phi Mu.
- Each Director elected by the Assembly shall be affiliated with a chapter not already represented on the Executive Board and shall not serve simultaneously as a member of the Assembly. No chapter shall be represented by a Director for more than two successive terms.
The President of the Society shall serve as chairperson and the Vice President shall serve as secretary. The President and the Secretary will both have voting privileges.
Section 5: Vacancies
The Executive Board shall appoint to fill unexpired terms. Persons appointed to fill unexpired terms must meet eligibility requirements of the Office.
Section 6: Meetings
The Executive Board shall meet twice a year to coincide with the Midwinter meeting and the Annual Conference of the American Library Association. Additional meetings may be called by the President or by petition by six voting members of the Executive Board. A majority of the voting members shall constitute a quorum except that two-thirds of the voting membership must be present to vote on a nomination for honorary membership (Article III, Sec. 8).
Section 7: Interim Voting
The President may authorize voting by paper or electronic mail or conference call between meetings. Vote results will be reported in the minutes of the next meeting following the vote.
ARTICLE VIII: COMMITTEES
Committees shall be of two types: standing and ad hoc. Standing Committees are the Nominating Committee, the Scholarships and Grants Committee, and the Monograph Series Editorial Board.
Section 1: Standing Committees
Unless otherwise provided in these Bylaws, members of standing committees shall be appointed by the President for terms of two years, and may be reappointed for successive terms, except that no person shall serve more than six consecutive years. Appointments shall be made to provide for staggered terms and continuity in membership. At least one member of each committee may be a voting member of the Executive Board. Regular and honorary members-at-large members of Beta Phi Mu are eligible to serve on committees. The President shall designate one member of each committee to serve as its chair.
Ad hoc committees may be appointed at the discretion of the President, upon authorization of the Executive Board, or by recommendation of the membership. Number of members, designation of a chair, and charge and instructions shall be at the discretion of the President unless specified in the directions. Members shall serve until the purpose of the committee is accomplished and final report is received.
Committees shall be of two types: standing and ad hoc. Standing Committees are the Nominating Committee, the Scholarships and Grants Committee, and the Monograph Series Editorial Board.
Section 1: Standing Committees
Unless otherwise provided in these Bylaws, members of standing committees shall be appointed by the President for terms of two years, and may be reappointed for successive terms, except that no person shall serve more than six consecutive years. Appointments shall be made to provide for staggered terms and continuity in membership. At least one member of each committee may be a voting member of the Executive Board. Regular and honorary members-at-large members of Beta Phi Mu are eligible to serve on committees. The President shall designate one member of each committee to serve as its chair.
- Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee shall present a slate of qualified nominees for elective offices as required by Bylaws, Article IV, Sec. 5, and suggest qualified candidates for appointments to fill vacancies. The Committee shall consist of the immediate Past-president, who will serve as chair, and two other members. - Scholarships and Grants Committee
The Scholarships Committee shall consist of at least three members and be chaired by a board member appointed by the President. The chair shall serve as liaison with Beta Phi Mu Headquarters and the Executive Board. - Scholars Series Editorial Board
The Scholars Series Editorial Board shall advise the series Editor on manuscripts for publication. The Board consists of at least four members and the series editor. The Editor, appointed by the president with the approval of the Executive Board for a term of five years, shall serve as the chair of the Editorial Board. The Editorial Board members shall be appointed to the Editorial Board by the Editor with the approval of the Executive Board for terms of five years.
Ad hoc committees may be appointed at the discretion of the President, upon authorization of the Executive Board, or by recommendation of the membership. Number of members, designation of a chair, and charge and instructions shall be at the discretion of the President unless specified in the directions. Members shall serve until the purpose of the committee is accomplished and final report is received.
ARTICLE IX: ASSEMBLY
Section 1: Purpose
The Assembly is the vehicle for chapter representation in the governance of Beta Phi Mu. It serves as an advisory body to the Executive Board, provides a forum for the exchange of ideas among chapters and members, and forms a communications link between the chapters and the Executive Board.
Section 2: Members of the Assembly
The Assembly shall consist of one regular member representing each chapter, chosen in accordance with the bylaws of that chapter. Participation in the Assembly shall be urged for all chapters. Any chapter may be represented in meetings of the Assembly by an alternate designated by that chapter in accordance with its bylaws in the event that the regularly selected representative to the Assembly is unable to attend. Members of the Assembly shall not serve for more than six consecutive years.
Section 3: Nonvoting Officers of the Assembly
The Vice President/President-elect of Beta Phi Mu serves as the chair and secretary of the Assembly. The chair is a non-voting members of the Assembly.
Section 4: Duties of the Officers
The chair shall preside at all meetings of the Assembly, appoint committees as appropriate or as directed by the Assembly, and perform any other duties customary to the office. The secretary shall keep a record of the attendance at Assembly meetings and of the business transacted by the Assembly and shall transmit Assembly minutes and recommendations to the Executive Board.
Section 5: Election of Directors
The Assembly shall elect from its own membership Directors to serve on the Executive Board in accordance with these Bylaws. At each of its annual meetings the Assembly shall elect two directors to serve as members of the Executive Board for terms of two years each. Nominees must meet the qualifications for directors as specified in Article VII, Sec. 3.
Section 6: Meetings
The Assembly shall meet annually in conjunction with the Annual Conference of the American Library Association. Written notice of the annual meeting shall be posted on the national website and a message sent to the chapter president, faculty advisor, and dean or director of the program where each chapter is located not later than thirty days before the meeting.
Section 1: Purpose
The Assembly is the vehicle for chapter representation in the governance of Beta Phi Mu. It serves as an advisory body to the Executive Board, provides a forum for the exchange of ideas among chapters and members, and forms a communications link between the chapters and the Executive Board.
Section 2: Members of the Assembly
The Assembly shall consist of one regular member representing each chapter, chosen in accordance with the bylaws of that chapter. Participation in the Assembly shall be urged for all chapters. Any chapter may be represented in meetings of the Assembly by an alternate designated by that chapter in accordance with its bylaws in the event that the regularly selected representative to the Assembly is unable to attend. Members of the Assembly shall not serve for more than six consecutive years.
Section 3: Nonvoting Officers of the Assembly
The Vice President/President-elect of Beta Phi Mu serves as the chair and secretary of the Assembly. The chair is a non-voting members of the Assembly.
Section 4: Duties of the Officers
The chair shall preside at all meetings of the Assembly, appoint committees as appropriate or as directed by the Assembly, and perform any other duties customary to the office. The secretary shall keep a record of the attendance at Assembly meetings and of the business transacted by the Assembly and shall transmit Assembly minutes and recommendations to the Executive Board.
Section 5: Election of Directors
The Assembly shall elect from its own membership Directors to serve on the Executive Board in accordance with these Bylaws. At each of its annual meetings the Assembly shall elect two directors to serve as members of the Executive Board for terms of two years each. Nominees must meet the qualifications for directors as specified in Article VII, Sec. 3.
Section 6: Meetings
The Assembly shall meet annually in conjunction with the Annual Conference of the American Library Association. Written notice of the annual meeting shall be posted on the national website and a message sent to the chapter president, faculty advisor, and dean or director of the program where each chapter is located not later than thirty days before the meeting.
ARTICLE X: MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS
Section 1: Annual Meeting
There may be an annual business meeting of the membership of Beta Phi Mu to coincide with the Annual Conference of the American Library Association. The President of Beta Phi Mu shall preside and make a report to the membership at such meetings.
Section 2: Votes
Votes on the business of the Society may be taken at membership meetings. Votes of the membership may be authorized by the Executive Board between meetings. A majority of the valid votes cast shall be required for action and results of those votes shall be reported at the next meeting of the membership.
Section 1: Annual Meeting
There may be an annual business meeting of the membership of Beta Phi Mu to coincide with the Annual Conference of the American Library Association. The President of Beta Phi Mu shall preside and make a report to the membership at such meetings.
Section 2: Votes
Votes on the business of the Society may be taken at membership meetings. Votes of the membership may be authorized by the Executive Board between meetings. A majority of the valid votes cast shall be required for action and results of those votes shall be reported at the next meeting of the membership.
ARTICLE XI: CHAPTERS
Section 1: Definition and Purpose
Chapters are local societies of Beta Phi Mu members organized as constituent units of Beta Phi Mu and operated for the purpose of promoting and supporting the interests of Beta Phi Mu and of programs where the chapters are established. Chapters may be attached to a single accredited or recognized program or be a joint chapter attached to two or more programs.
Section 2: Names of Chapters
Chapters are identified by Greek letters assigned by the Executive Board and included in the charter granted when a chapter is installed.
Section 3: Powers and Functions
Chapters are empowered to initiate members in accordance with these Bylaws and to accept as members, persons initiated by other chapters and regular and honorary Beta Phi Mu members-at-large, to participate in the governance of Beta Phi Mu by representation in the Assembly, and to function in support of the program to which they are attached. Initiation regulations allow:
A chapter charter may be granted by the Executive Board upon petition signed by twenty-five regular members of Beta Phi Mu, accompanied by a letter of authorization from the dean or director of an accredited program (or deans or directors of accredited programs for joint chapters).
Section 5: Installation of Chapters
A chapter shall be installed by the President of Beta Phi Mu, a Past-president of Beta Phi Mu or a voting member of the Executive Board designated by the President.
Section 6: Governance of Chapters
Chapters shall be governed by bylaws adopted by them which are not in conflict with these Bylaws. Chapter bylaws shall include designation of officers, the manner of their election, their terms of office and their respective duties; provisions for choosing a representative to the Assembly; regular membership meetings including at least one initiation each year; procedures for the amendment of the chapter bylaws; and procedures for the disposition of chapter assets in the event of chapter dissolution or merger with another chapter; and may include a schedule of dues and/or initiation fees.
Section 7: Chapter Adviser
Each chapter should have an adviser who is a member of Beta Phi Mu or an honorary chapter member to represent the chapter in membership and related matters before the faculty of the degree program where it is located and to advise in all activities of the chapter. A joint chapter might provide for an advisory committee representing each institution. Ideally the chapter advisor should be a faculty member, but a staff member with an LIS or related background meeting the above criteria is also acceptable. Chapters may also name a staff liaison in addition to their advisor if desired.
Section 8: Dissolution of Chapters
The Executive Board may dissolve a chapter when a program ceases or loses accreditation permanently, or upon petition by the chapter reflecting a majority vote of its members.
Section 1: Definition and Purpose
Chapters are local societies of Beta Phi Mu members organized as constituent units of Beta Phi Mu and operated for the purpose of promoting and supporting the interests of Beta Phi Mu and of programs where the chapters are established. Chapters may be attached to a single accredited or recognized program or be a joint chapter attached to two or more programs.
Section 2: Names of Chapters
Chapters are identified by Greek letters assigned by the Executive Board and included in the charter granted when a chapter is installed.
Section 3: Powers and Functions
Chapters are empowered to initiate members in accordance with these Bylaws and to accept as members, persons initiated by other chapters and regular and honorary Beta Phi Mu members-at-large, to participate in the governance of Beta Phi Mu by representation in the Assembly, and to function in support of the program to which they are attached. Initiation regulations allow:
- A chapter established with a newly accredited master’s program may initiate eligible persons who were graduated no earlier than twenty-four months prior to the accreditation of the program.
- A chapter established at a school with a master’s program continuously accredited may initiate eligible persons who were graduated no earlier than twenty-four months prior to the accreditation of the program.
A chapter charter may be granted by the Executive Board upon petition signed by twenty-five regular members of Beta Phi Mu, accompanied by a letter of authorization from the dean or director of an accredited program (or deans or directors of accredited programs for joint chapters).
Section 5: Installation of Chapters
A chapter shall be installed by the President of Beta Phi Mu, a Past-president of Beta Phi Mu or a voting member of the Executive Board designated by the President.
Section 6: Governance of Chapters
Chapters shall be governed by bylaws adopted by them which are not in conflict with these Bylaws. Chapter bylaws shall include designation of officers, the manner of their election, their terms of office and their respective duties; provisions for choosing a representative to the Assembly; regular membership meetings including at least one initiation each year; procedures for the amendment of the chapter bylaws; and procedures for the disposition of chapter assets in the event of chapter dissolution or merger with another chapter; and may include a schedule of dues and/or initiation fees.
Section 7: Chapter Adviser
Each chapter should have an adviser who is a member of Beta Phi Mu or an honorary chapter member to represent the chapter in membership and related matters before the faculty of the degree program where it is located and to advise in all activities of the chapter. A joint chapter might provide for an advisory committee representing each institution. Ideally the chapter advisor should be a faculty member, but a staff member with an LIS or related background meeting the above criteria is also acceptable. Chapters may also name a staff liaison in addition to their advisor if desired.
Section 8: Dissolution of Chapters
The Executive Board may dissolve a chapter when a program ceases or loses accreditation permanently, or upon petition by the chapter reflecting a majority vote of its members.
ARTICLE XII: DUES AND FINANCES
Section 1: Initiation Fee
Each initiate into membership shall pay to the Treasurer as a condition of initiation a fee in an amount determined by the Executive Board.
Section 2: National Annual Dues
All active members must pay the national annual fee separate from any local chapter fees.
Section 3: Chapter Dues and Fees
Chapters may assess initiation fees and local dues in accordance with their bylaws.
Section 4: Contributions
The Executive Board may accept and invite contributions or memorial funds to support professional and scholarly projects including scholarships and research grants and shall act as trustee in carrying out donors’ wishes.
Section 5: Financial Review
A financial review of all accounts shall be made annually by an external auditor and a written report shall be submitted to the Executive Board upon completion of the financial review.
Section 6: Fiscal Year
The fiscal year of Beta Phi Mu shall be the calendar year.
Section 1: Initiation Fee
Each initiate into membership shall pay to the Treasurer as a condition of initiation a fee in an amount determined by the Executive Board.
Section 2: National Annual Dues
All active members must pay the national annual fee separate from any local chapter fees.
Section 3: Chapter Dues and Fees
Chapters may assess initiation fees and local dues in accordance with their bylaws.
Section 4: Contributions
The Executive Board may accept and invite contributions or memorial funds to support professional and scholarly projects including scholarships and research grants and shall act as trustee in carrying out donors’ wishes.
Section 5: Financial Review
A financial review of all accounts shall be made annually by an external auditor and a written report shall be submitted to the Executive Board upon completion of the financial review.
Section 6: Fiscal Year
The fiscal year of Beta Phi Mu shall be the calendar year.
ARTICLE XIII: TAX EXEMPT STATUS
Section 1: Tax Exempt Status
It is the intent of Beta Phi Mu and its chapters to comply with all requirements for maintaining tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue code as amended. It is the duty of the Treasurer of Beta Phi Mu to file promptly any reports required, meet all other requirements for compliance and notify the Executive Board of any changes in these requirements.
Section 2: Tax Provision Compliance
Notwithstanding any provisions to the contrary, neither the Executive Board nor any officer or member of the Society shall be authorized to exercise any power or engage in any activity not in furtherance of the tax exempt purposes of Beta Phi Mu.
Section 1: Tax Exempt Status
It is the intent of Beta Phi Mu and its chapters to comply with all requirements for maintaining tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue code as amended. It is the duty of the Treasurer of Beta Phi Mu to file promptly any reports required, meet all other requirements for compliance and notify the Executive Board of any changes in these requirements.
Section 2: Tax Provision Compliance
Notwithstanding any provisions to the contrary, neither the Executive Board nor any officer or member of the Society shall be authorized to exercise any power or engage in any activity not in furtherance of the tax exempt purposes of Beta Phi Mu.
ARTICLE XIV: NON-DISCRIMINATION
Neither the Society nor any chapter shall discriminate against or in favor of any member on account of race, religion, creed, national origin, political belief, gender, sexual orientation, age, or physical disability.
Neither the Society nor any chapter shall discriminate against or in favor of any member on account of race, religion, creed, national origin, political belief, gender, sexual orientation, age, or physical disability.
ARTICLE XV: INTELLECTUAL FREEDOM
The Society subscribes to the principles of intellectual freedom for its members and for recipients of grants as individuals but does not endorse any positions promulgated, any political activity engaged in, or any cause espoused by members or recipients of grants.
The Society subscribes to the principles of intellectual freedom for its members and for recipients of grants as individuals but does not endorse any positions promulgated, any political activity engaged in, or any cause espoused by members or recipients of grants.
ARTICLE XVI: AMENDMENTS
These Bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the valid ballots cast in a ballot, either paper or electronic, vote. Proposed amendment and ballot must be separate documents but may be distributed with the ballot for the election of officers and/or with the newsletter. To change a bylaw, there must be a recommendation by any one member.
These Bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the valid ballots cast in a ballot, either paper or electronic, vote. Proposed amendment and ballot must be separate documents but may be distributed with the ballot for the election of officers and/or with the newsletter. To change a bylaw, there must be a recommendation by any one member.
ARTICLE XVII: PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
Sturgis Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure, in the latest edition, shall govern the Society in all cases to which it can be applied and in which it is not inconsistent with these Bylaws or special rules of order adopted by the Society.
Sturgis Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure, in the latest edition, shall govern the Society in all cases to which it can be applied and in which it is not inconsistent with these Bylaws or special rules of order adopted by the Society.
ARTICLE XVIII: DISSOLUTION
Section 1: Assets
As a condition of dissolution of this Society, the Executive Board shall convert its net assets at the time of dissolution into cash. Such cash shall then then be donated to the American Library Association to endow the Beta Phi Mu Award and to the Association for Library and Information Science Education to be used for its awards program.
Section 2: Archives
All Beta Phi Mu archival material shall be placed on permanent file with the records housed at the Beta Phi Mu archives at the University Library at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at the time of dissolution.
Section 1: Assets
As a condition of dissolution of this Society, the Executive Board shall convert its net assets at the time of dissolution into cash. Such cash shall then then be donated to the American Library Association to endow the Beta Phi Mu Award and to the Association for Library and Information Science Education to be used for its awards program.
Section 2: Archives
All Beta Phi Mu archival material shall be placed on permanent file with the records housed at the Beta Phi Mu archives at the University Library at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at the time of dissolution.
