FROM THE DESK OF THE STATE LIBRARIAN

The end of the year is always a good time to reflect on what has been accomplished and to plan for the future. This year's big project was to see if we could be helpful to libraries by offering downloadable audio books to library patrons.

In the spring of 06 the State Library signed a contract with OverDrive to provide services and content to New Hampshire libraries. There were twenty libraries in that first group that wanted to be part of the consortium. Those twenty libraries went live in September; as of December 31 we had 75 libraries, all part of the downloadable audio book consortium serving 750,000 New Hampshire residents. Credit for making this project work goes to Diana Degen and Bobbi Slossar who learned as much as they could about what worked and what didn't to help libraries get connected. The collaboration of the State Library and the more than 75 public libraries has made this program possible.

As I have said many times in many places the State Library staff is an outstanding group of library professionals. They work hard every day to improve library services to New Hampshire residents. This year three new librarians were added: Linda Kent, Technical Services, Bobbi Slossar, our technology consultant and Amber Cushing, in our reference department. New to the Circulation Department is Victoria Weatherbee. Many of our staff have been with the State Library for a long time, it is this mix of seasoned, experienced, knowledgeable librarians and new people with fresh ideas that make the State Library a vital innovated place to work.

Plans for the next year include developing a digital center at the State Library to establish protocols and standards for digitizing important materials. We plan to establish a program to assist libraries needing help with digitizing import local documents as well.

We are currently working with stake holders on a new automation system that will provide the range of services and features needed to help New Hampshire libraries serve their patrons.

We at the state library wish all of you a happy, healthy an prosperous New Year.

-Michael York, State Librarian