FROM THE DESK OF THE STATE LIBRARIAN
The end of the year is always a good time to reflect on the accomplishments and challenges of the past 12 months. During 2004 the State Library has continued to focus on its mission to improve library services for all New Hampshire citizens. During the last year the State Library, like all state agencies, and many public libraries, faced difficult budgetary challenges. Our goal during this period was, to the extent possible, insulate our clients from the impact of cuts to the State Library's operating funds. The State Library has made a conscious effort to identify those services that we provide that are essential for the libraries in the state to serve their patrons. The services that we feel are critical to public libraries include the union catalog, free access to full-text databases, and free delivery of library materials. In addition to these high visibility programs, there are a number of very important programs that help libraries as well, such as Library Development Services, the Family Resource Connection, and the reference services of the State Library. We will continue to face budgetary challenges, however, I feel confident that we will be able to weather them and provide the services that the libraries in New Hampshire have come to expect.
This year the New Hampshire library community lost a great librarian who has had an impact on New Hampshire libraries as great as any librarian I know. On November 3rd, Todd Trevorrow, University Librarian at Plymouth State University, died suddenly of an aneurysm while on the highway in Canterbury, N.H. Those who worked with Todd, since he came to New Hampshire in 1993, had come to know him as an intelligent thoughtful man who was always willing to help. At a memorial service held on December 9th, at Plymouth, Todd was remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, which he used to great advantage to put people at ease. He was also recognized as a true gentleman, one who was never petty or mean spirited. Todd always saw the good in people and was always quick to give praise to others for a job well done. The Staff of the Lamson Library spoke of his devotion to his colleagues and his commitment to make Plymouth State University the best it could be. In a fitting tribute, the University has named the Tower Room at Plymouth State University, Lamson Library in Todd's memory. The University has also established a scholarship fund to help interns who work in the library. As I said in my remarks at the memorial service, "We in the library community are all saddened by Todd's passing, however, I feel very fortunate having had the opportunity to work with Todd while he was at Plymouth State even if it was for too brief a time."
The Staff of the N.H. State Library wishes you all a healthy and prosperous New Year.
-Michael York, State Librarian
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