The Library is a private, incorporated institution with the public service mission of providing residents of the Middletown-Odessa-Townsend area with a full range of modern-day library services and materials, on a free and equal access basis, to meet their informational, educational and cultural enrichment needs as citizens of a democratic society and global community.

Throughout its history as an incorporated non-profit, the Library has been governed by a five-member Board of Trustees who serve four-year terms and may be re-elected by majority vote.