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About

The Shedd Free Library (SFL) is Washington’s free public library that has been in constant operation since October 30, 1869. The Library maintains over 9000 books and magazines, 487 DVDs, audio books and 130 CDs. The Staff and Trustees are making some exciting changes to offer more advanced and convenient services. With the sharp increase in circulation over the past years it has been necessary to offer an increase in library services, technology and an extension of hours. Where else can someone without a computer go to apply for a job online? The expansion of these services allows the Library to keep up with demand, as we work to identify changing needs and deliver solutions. The Library now offers 3 public-access computers, WiFi and Downloadable Books in both print and audio from the State Library. Adopting new policies and guidelines that support these new technologies has also helped the Library to make these services more user-friendly. More than 980 residents of Washington and surrounding communities hold active Library cards. Since 2007, the library’s circulation numbers have shown increases of 35-40% annually, as well as a 59% increase over a two-year-period.

Objectives:

• To operate the library in accordance with the NH Library laws and to strive to meet the current standards set by the American Library Association and the NH statewide Library Development System for Public Libraries of similar population.
• To adhere to the ALA Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read Statement.
• To seek to identify community needs and to assemble books and media in order to serve members of the community by providing materials to meet their informational, educational, and recreational needs.