The library is governed by a Board of Trustees composed of citizens of the City of Emmetsburg and a rural representative. The trustees meet monthly on the third Tuesday of the month at the library in Room 11A, the Public Library Boardroom. These meetings are subject to, and are conducted in compliance with Iowa's Open Meeting Laws.

This meeting is open to the public. At each meeting, a public forum is held where people can speak for a limited amount of time without being on the agenda. To be put on the trustees' agenda, contact the Library Director at least one day in advance of the meeting.