What is the Family Resource Connection?
What services does the Family Resource Connection provide?
How much does it cost?
Who can use the Family Resource Connection?
What kind of requests for information do people make?
How can I find out what books and videos are available to borrow?
How do I make a request?
Do I have to go to the State Library to register for a library card?
Where does the Family Resource Connection get its funding?
What is the Family Resource Connection?
In the spring of 1996, the Family Resource Connection (FRC) was launched with the collaboration of the New Hampshire Departments of Education, Health & Human Services, and the State Library, as a statewide library and clearinghouse whose primary mission was to serve the needs of children. Today, FRC is still providing information, resources, and support for NH families, caregivers, educators, and other professionals concerning aspects of caring for, educating and raising children-with a continuing emphasis on children with special needs.
What services does the Family Resource Connection provide?
The Family Resource Connection consists of a lending library of approximately 5000 items available for loan (NH residents only) on topics relating to families with children. Books, videos, and kits, etc. are mailed free of charge, upon request, along with an enclosed postage-paid return mailer.
The Family Resource Connection also provides research services. Reference librarians will do internet and database searches on any subject related to children. The program also has extensive subject and organization files, as well as a clearinghouse of information on programs and agencies that assist families with children.
The Family Resource Connection also maintains a website at www.nh.gov/nhsl/frc that includes the following: an online listing of FRC library materials with a convenient online request form, an online Directory of Children's Services (including local, state, and web resources) on topics such as child care resource and referrals, early intervention contacts, parent support programs, disability related services, health, education, and welfare services, etc., as well as an online Family & Youth Development Calendar consisting of a listing of statewide calendars of workshops, classes, conferences and other events for professionals and families who provide care, health, and education for children.
How much does it cost?
The Family Resource Connection services are FREE to any New Hampshire resident, including the postage to return materials to the library.
Who can use the Family Resource Connection?
Any New Hampshire resident may use the Family Resource Connection. The library collection has materials geared towards parents and relatives, educators, foster parents, child welfare workers, child care providers, health care professionals, etc.-anyone wanting information for children and families.
What kind of requests for information do people make?
The Family Resource Connection has provided information for parents and professionals who work with children and families on numerous subjects. Some examples of requests include:
- Parents requesting information about Autism.
- Child Care Administrators requesting training videos for staff development.
- Parents requesting copy of the latest state Home Education (a.k.a. homeschooling) laws.
- Family Support workers requesting materials and support groups for families dealing with death, divorce, mental health issues.
- New parents looking for materials on parenting, including breastfeeding, premature babies, genetic disorders, child development, etc.
- Teachers and paraprofessionals requesting materials to assist students in classrooms with ADHD, sensory issues, hearing/vision impairments, seizures, food allergies, etc.
If you would like information pertaining to children and families, the Family Resource Connection can help.
How can I find out what books and videos are available to borrow?
Listings of materials in the lending library are available online at the Family Resource Connection's website: www.nh.gov/nhsl/frc/catalog.html. Print listings of available topics may also be obtained by contacting FRC by phone or email.
How do I make a request?
You may call the Family Resource Connection's toll free number 1-800-298-4321. If you reach voicemail, leave your name, full address and telephone number along with your request. You may also make your request via email at FRC@dcr.nh.gov or by using FRC online request form. You may choose to browse our collection, which is located at the New Hampshire State Library, 20 Park Street, Concord, NH 03301. We are across the street from the NH State Capital.
Do I have to go to the State Library to register for a library card?
No. The Family Resource Connection is dedicated to making their services available to all New Hampshire residents throughout the state. Just give us a call. We will take your information over the phone. It's really that simple and easy!
Where does the Family Resource Connection get its funding?
The Family Resource Connection is collaboratively funded by the New Hampshire Departments of Health and Human Services and Education, as well as the New Hampshire State Library. |
