Library

Olivia Rodham Memorial Library | 1 Nelson Common Road | Nelson, New Hampshire 03457
603-847-3214

The Library is dedicated to serving the educational, cultural, and recreational needs of those who reside in Nelson. In pursuing these goals the library will work closely with other organizations in the town such as the Board of Selectmen, the school, church and other groups. The Library feels that its purpose is to help people of all ages to continue their education, to add to their knowledge and understanding of the world, its literature, its arts, sciences, religions, and its people and their histories.

The Nelson Library as we know it was established at a special town meeting on July 7th, 1926, with the official title of the Olivia Rodham Memorial Library. “To preserve and honor the memory of a noble woman well versed in literature and a true lover of books.” But the true origins of the library were in 1824, when the town voted, simply, to purchase some books. Over the years the “library” was located in different places, including Charles Atwood’s store, which would have been on what is now The Common.

The 1926 vote of the town was preceded by a donation of land from Henry Melville for the purpose, and following the town’s decision, the building was designed by Alexander Law, and built by Homer Priest. This building, located on the hill on the south side of the Common (opposite the Congregational Church) still stands.

By the early 1990’s it was evident that the facility was no longer adequate, both in terms of space, and in being able to provide access for people with physical handicaps. The building also had no plumbing. Its location did not facilitate a reasonable way to resolve these issues by means of renovation.

Some years earlier a group of citizens had purchased and donated to the town a parcel of land adjacent to the town hall. At one time the home of Albert and Mildred Quigley, the building there had fallen into disrepair. It was demolished, and a modestly landscaped open area was created. The town began to consider this as a potential building site for the new library, and after considerable effort, plans were made for the building which exists today. It was built in 1996, and within a short time it blended in so well that it was easy to imagine it had always been there.

The library is very well utilized by the community. It provides a pleasant environment for reading and studying. Internet access is available via library computers, and during business hours wireless is available to those bringing in their own laptops. The library works closely with the school and provides a number of wonderful programs for children throughout the year.

Links

The New Hampshire State Library

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Libraries throughout the state of New Hampshire offer a variety of entertainment and educational materials to taxpayers at a very economical rate.

The average New Hampshire taxpayer contributes about $26 in taxes per year to fund public libraries and their services.  But how much would they need to pay out-of-pocket if they purchased their books, movies and other library services in stores?  Check out this calculator.

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The Olivia Rodham Library Board of Trustees

Bruce McSheehy, Chair

Linda Cates, Treasurer

Max Nunemaker

John Zurich

Susan Meehan