FROM THE DESK OF THE STATE LIBRARIAN

On December 13, 2007, Robert Finlay of Peterborough, N.H. held a press conference at the N.H. State Library to announce that he was mounting a challenge to New Hampshire libraries to increase membership in the next year. The challenge comes from Mr. Finlay's desire to get the public to understand the importance libraries play in our society and to provide resources to libraries to fulfill their mission.

Mr. Finlay is focusing on cultural organizations in New Hampshire, libraries, museums, and historical societies, to encourage them to increase their membership over the next year. All libraries are eligible; a simple application form supplied by the Robin & Karin Finlay Foundation is available from the State Library. Copies of the application were sent to all public library directors in New Hampshire the week of December 10th.

Following the press conference, Mr. Finlay and his wife Karin hosted a lunch in Concord to provide any additional information about the program that the assembled cultural organizations needed. The State Library appreciated Mr. Finlay's initiative and are anxious to work with him and the staff of the foundation to assist libraries that are interested in applying for the award. We hope that all New Hampshire libraries will take the challenge to increase membership and develop new ways to attract patrons. If you have questions about the program, please contact me at the State Library at (603) 271-2397 or via e-mail at michael.york@dcr.nh.gov.