Howe Library

Howe Library. The Howe Library is the public library serving the community of Hanover, New Hampshire, and a vital cultural and intellectual hub for the Upper Valley region. Founded in the late 19th century through a significant philanthropic gift, it operates as an independent association library. The library is renowned for its comprehensive collections, diverse public programming, and its distinctive Beaux-Arts building, a contributing structure within the Hanover Downtown Historic District.

History

The institution was established in 1885 following a bequest from Mary Howe, a local resident and philanthropist, in memory of her husband, a prominent Dartmouth College professor. Its first permanent home was a dedicated building constructed in 1901 on the present site, financed by a subsequent gift from the Howe family. Throughout the 20th century, the library expanded its role beyond a traditional book repository, notably establishing one of the state's first dedicated children's rooms. A major renovation and expansion project was completed in the late 1990s to modernize facilities and increase capacity, overseen by the architectural firm Centerbrook Architects and Planners. The library's history is deeply intertwined with the growth of Hanover and its close relationship with neighboring Dartmouth College.

Architecture

The core of the present building is the original 1901 structure, designed by Boston architect J. Merrill Brown in the Beaux-Arts style. This design is characterized by its symmetrical façade, classical detailing, and a prominent portico supported by Ionic columns. The 1998 expansion, which added significant space to the rear and side of the historic building, was carefully designed to be complementary yet distinct, utilizing materials like brick and glass to create a light-filled, modern addition. The interior successfully blends historic spaces, such as the original reading room with its fireplace and woodwork, with contemporary areas for technology and community gatherings. This architectural synthesis led to its recognition as a contributing property to the Hanover Downtown Historic District.

Collections and services

The library maintains a circulating collection of approximately 100,000 items, including books, audiobooks, DVDs, and periodicals. It provides access to a wide array of digital resources, such as e-books, research databases, and language learning software like Mango Languages. Special collections include a robust New Hampshire and Vermont regional history section and the Howe Library Press collection. Public services are extensive, featuring regular programs for all ages, from storytime sessions for children to author talks and book discussions for adults. The library also offers public computer access, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms for community use, and serves as a hotspot for the Library of Congress National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled.

Governance and funding

The library operates as a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, governed by an elected Board of Trustees from the community. While it serves as the de facto public library for Hanover, its funding is a hybrid model. A substantial portion comes from an annual appropriation from the Town of Hanover, approved by voters. The remainder is secured through private donations, grants from organizations like the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, endowment income, and fundraising events organized by the active Friends of the Library group. This model requires ongoing community and philanthropic support to maintain operations and services.

In popular culture

While not a frequent backdrop for major Hollywood productions, the library's distinctive architecture and quintessential New England setting have made it a recognizable local landmark. It has been featured in promotional materials for Dartmouth College and the Upper Valley region. The building and its surroundings occasionally appear in independent films and documentaries focusing on small-town New England life. Furthermore, the library often serves as an inspiration and setting for local authors and is a central venue during community festivals like Hanover's annual Fourth of July celebrations.

Category:Libraries in New Hampshire Category:Buildings and structures in Hanover, New Hampshire Category:Association libraries in the United States