PILLSBURY FREE LIBRARY WINS NEW HAMPSHIRE LIBRARY OF THE YEAR AWARD!

by Nancy Ladd, Library Director
Pillsbury Free Library, Warner

The Trustees and staff of the Pillsbury Free Library, Warner are excited and proud that the N.H. Library Trustees' Association (NHLTA) has chosen the Pillsbury Free Library to receive this year's Library of the Year Award.

The Award judging is based on: expansion and improvement in services; enhanced services to a previously underserved part of the community; partnering with other community organizations and libraries; proven value to the community measured by the relationship and support of town officials and the majority of the community; and membership in NHLTA and the N.H. Library Association.

Fred Creed, Chair of the Library Board of Trustees, said "Winning this award is thanks in large part to the many people and organizations in Warner that have shown their support with donations and votes over the years." He gave as examples the many contributions over the years by the Warner Woman's Club, Warner Men's Club, Fall Foliage Festival, Inc., individuals, and Warner businesses, as well as the support of voters and officials at Town meeting when the library needed an addition, and later, an air conditioning system.

Library Director Nancy Ladd agreed, and added that the support of the Library Board of Trustees and volunteers for the many new projects and activities was an essential part of the library's success in providing quality service. "We also have a dedicated group to staff members who are always willing to learn new skills, and who come up with many ideas for improving service," she added.

Other elements that may have helped make the Warner library the winning entry include the ever-growing adult tutoring program, numerous story times provided for local preschool organizations, the range of technology available for the public such as computers and wireless Internet access, improved programming for teens and adults, and a collection which keeps pace with changing mediums (such as DVDs) and styles (such as graphic novels). The most recent example of this is the new subscription to free downloadable audio books for Warner residents.

"You have much to be proud of with all of the accomplishments made by your library," said NHLTA President Lillian Edelmann in her letter notifying the Board of the Award decision. "The Committee was indeed very impressed with your nomination materials, and could feel the pride." The Trustees heartily thank former Trustee Carol McCausland for writing the nomination narrative, and for suggesting the submission of the Pillsbury Free Library for consideration for this annual Award.

A formal public acceptance of the Award will take place in September at a special event with readings by Warner Authors.