The Portland District Library Board is an appointed board with two members each from the City of Portland, Portland Township, and Danby Township. Board members are appointed by the township board or city council of the respective governmental unit in which they reside.

1. The term of office is four years; a board member may elect to remain on the library board for additional terms with the appointment of the township board or city council. The Board of the Portland District Library is charged with the responsibility of the governance of the library. The Board will hire a Library Director meeting the requirements of the Library of Michigan who will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the library and for implementing and enforcing library policy.
2. The Library Board is responsible for setting library policy and establishing an annual budget. The Library Board is responsible for the upkeep, repair, and maintenance of the library building.