Administration - 603-271-2392

The New Hampshire State Library is offering conservation grants through the Conservation License Plate Program to non-profit or public institutions for the preservation and conservation of publicly owned cultural resources. Grants are awarded for activities that will enhance access to resources and safeguard rare or endangered treasures.

The New Hampshire General Court passed the Conservation License Plate or “Moose Plate” initiative in 1998 as a way to supplement existing state conservation and preservation programs with funding through voluntary public purchases of the plates. The Conservation License Plate supports the protection of critical resources in New Hampshire, from scenic lands to historic sites to wildlife. Revenues from the sale of the plate are distributed through five state agencies.

Janet Eklund, Administrator of Library Operations for the State Library said, “Since the program began in 2003, the State Library has received 63 applications totaling $351,998 and funded 34 awards totaling $162,316. It is very exciting to be a part of this process and to award these grants to all the very deserving communities and organizations making an important contribution to preserving New Hampshire’s treasures.”

Applications are due on August 31, 2006 and the Grants will be awarded in October 2006. For more information, please visit www.nh.gov/nhsl/services/librarians/moose or contact Janet Eklund at 603.271.2393 or at jeklund@library.state.nh.us.

Electronic and Government Information Services - 603-271-2143

A committee of school and public librarians is evaluating databases by four vendors (including our current vendor Ebsco) and will make a final selection in mid-April. Everyone in the NH library community is invited to give feedback about the different products. The trial can be accessed at http://www.nhewlink.state.nh.us/libraries/trials.html

Bobbi Slossar, previously a reference librarian at the state library, is now the Technology Services Coordinator. In her new position, Bobbi will provide training as well as technical and professional assistance to public libraries throughout NH.

Library Development Services - 603-271-2865 (Concord) - 1-800-462-1726 (Lancaster)

A Children's Book Review will take place at the state library in Concord from April 10-14 from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm each day. Librarians are invited to come and preview new titles in picture books and juvenile and young adult fiction and nonfiction. All those who attend will receive free books, which will be sent along via van. Librarians may attend the Review at their convenience; there is no need to schedule appointments.

Check out the wealth of continuing education opportunities at the state library and at other venues. For a complete listing, see www.nh.gov/nhsl/services/librarians/education.html