Accessing New Hampshire Public Library Digital Databases and Learning Tools

Accessing New Hampshire Public Library Digital Databases and Learning Tools

For residents of the Granite State, the New Hampshire State Library (NHSL) and local public libraries serve as vital gateways to a wealth of digital information. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or a lifelong learner, the state provides robust, government-supported infrastructure to ensure equitable access to knowledge.

The Role of the New Hampshire State Library

The New Hampshire State Library, headquartered in Concord, operates under the mission to promote excellence in library services and provide rapid access to informational resources for all New Hampshirites. Governed by New Hampshire Revised Statutes (specifically Chapter 201-A), the library acts as a central hub for statewide library development.

Key Digital Databases

The state facilitates access to several high-value databases that would otherwise be costly for individuals to access. These include:

* NoveList Plus & K-8: Provided free of charge to all public libraries, this tool offers reading recommendations, reviews, and read-alike suggestions for all ages.
* Ancestry Library Edition & HeritageQuest: Essential for genealogy research, these databases are available through group purchases facilitated by the state, allowing residents to trace their family history using extensive records.
* EBSCOhost & Explora: These platforms provide access to thousands of magazines, professional journals, and grade-appropriate articles for students and adults alike.
* Consumer Reports: Available digitally, this resource allows residents to research product ratings and buying guides to make informed financial decisions.

Accessing Resources: A Practical Guide

Accessing these tools typically requires a valid library card from a local New Hampshire public library. If you are unsure of your credentials, your local library staff can assist you in retrieving your card number or registering for a new account.

Digital Books and Audiobooks

Through the NH Downloadable Book Consortium, residents can access thousands of eBooks and audiobooks via the Libby app (powered by OverDrive). This service is a collaborative effort among New Hampshire libraries, ensuring that even smaller, rural communities have access to a vast digital collection.

Legal and Government Research

For those requiring legal information, the New Hampshire Law Library—the only public law library in the state—is located at the Supreme Court Building in Concord. It serves as a congressionally designated depository for U.S. Government documents. Residents can access:

* Legal Databases: Including specialized resources for pro se (self-represented) litigants.
* Legislative History: Tools to help citizens track state laws and regulations.
* Public Access: Guaranteed by Title 44 of the United States Code, ensuring that government documents remain accessible to the public.

Regional Context and Demographics

New Hampshire’s library system is uniquely structured to serve its diverse geography, ranging from the urban centers of Manchester and Nashua to the rural, mountainous regions of the North Country. With a population that values self-reliance and civic engagement, the state’s investment in digital infrastructure helps bridge the “digital divide.” By providing remote access to databases, the state ensures that a resident in a remote town has the same research capabilities as someone living in the state capital.

How to Get Started

  • Visit Your Local Library: Your local library is the primary point of contact. If you are in a town like Dublin or Hollis, check your local library’s website for specific “Digital Resources” pages.
  • Use the NH State Catalog: The NHAIS (New Hampshire Automated Information System) catalog allows you to search for items across the state and request interlibrary loans.
  • Ask a Librarian: If you are struggling to find specific information, the “Ask a Librarian” service provided by the New Hampshire State Library is an invaluable resource for genealogy, history, and general reference questions.

    • Contact Information

    * New Hampshire State Library: www.nhsl.dncr.nh.gov
    * NH Law Library: (603) 271-3777 | lawlibrary@courts.state.nh.us
    * General Support: Contact your local municipal library for specific login credentials for databases like EBSCO or OverDrive.

    By leveraging these state-funded resources, New Hampshire residents can save money, advance their education, and connect with the rich history and legal framework of their state.