Submitted by Charlotte M. Hutton, Librarian
Audrey C. Ross, Assistant Librarian, Children’s Librarian
Joan E. Kahl, Library Assistant
Ruth A. Ross, Library Assistant
Jean Ewing, Library Assistant
Ruth M. Chilton, Clerical Assistant
Kathleen Dunbrack, Library Page
Services available through the Public Library have changed drastically in the past ten years. No longer is the emphasis on the circulation of books and magazines. Today the Lane Memorial Library offers a variety of services. There are special programs for children including regular story hours for 4-5 year olds every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m. and again at 1:00-1:45 p.m. from October through mid-August. In the summer we have regular film programs and a reading group for youth. Throughout the year we provide programs for children’s organizations and the schools. We have pamphlets, magazines, books, records and cassettes for circulation to all ages. The Friends of the Lane Library have donated original art works, and we have purchased an extensive collection of art prints for loan to the public. Reference service is provided, and we have acquired a substantial collection of New Hampshire genealogy and other materials. We subscribe to four daily newspapers and several weeklies. Unfortunately we are unable to keep back issues because of lack of storage space. Staff members provide programs for community organizations, and films and filmstrips are available for program material. Interlibrary loan of special items and the use of the statewide library card increase our service potential. We provide talking books and the equipment to enjoy these for the sighted and physically handicapped. Delivery of books to shut-ins is also available. Our circulation for 1977 indicates approximately 96,000 items loaned to patrons.
Our exciting new service made available in 1977 is the purchase of Hampton Union since 1901 on microfilm. The Friends of the Library gave us a microfilm reader, so that we are now able to use this valuable reference tool.
We have an active Volunteer Program under the supervision of our assistant Librarian. We are always interested in recruiting new volunteers for all phases of work in the library.
We have been fortunate to have received many donations of usable books this year in addition to several monetary gifts for specific purchases from organizations and our continuing Memorial Gifts Program.
Our budget for 1978 includes staffing for an additional evening after Town Meeting. If the budget is passed we would be open:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday - 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, Friday, Saturday - 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
It is our aim to upgrade the services of the library whenever possible. It is our hope that the people will give us the financial support necessary to continue and expand these services.
