NEWPORT BEACH

The relationship between the Newport Beach Library Board of Trustees and the Newport Beach Library Foundation has become so frayed that foundation members are looking to the City Council to rein in what they consider unreasonable demands by the trustees that restrict their independence.

But Councilwoman Norma Glover, who requested an outline of their respective roles that will be discussed at a 4 p.m. study session today, said that the council may not have any authority over the two bodies.

The dispute surfaced publicly last fall when the trustees sent a letter demanding that the foundation reduce its operating costs, give clear financial reports and give greater control to the trustees. Otherwise, the trustees warned that they would sever relations with the nonprofit group.