The Bedford Public Library, located in Bedford, New Hampshire, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of services, programs, and resources to residents of all ages. With a rich history dating back to 1894, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for learning, recreation, and socialization.
History and Architecture
The Bedford Public Library was founded in 1894, with a collection of just 500 books. Over the years, the library has undergone several expansions and renovations, with the most recent being a major renovation in 2004. The current building, located at 3 Meetinghouse Road, features a stunning blend of modern and traditional architecture, with a grand reading room, comfortable seating areas, and state-of-the-art technology infrastructure. The library’s unique design incorporates energy-efficient features, such as solar panels and a green roof, making it an environmentally friendly facility.
Services and Programs
The Bedford Public Library offers a diverse range of services and programs, including free Wi-Fi, public computers, printing and scanning, and interlibrary loan services. The library also provides a variety of programs for children, teens, and adults, such as storytime sessions, book clubs, author talks, and technology workshops. The library’s collection includes over 100,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Children's Services | Storytime, book clubs, and other programs for children aged 0-12 |
| Teen Services | Book clubs, gaming, and other programs for teens aged 13-18 |
| Adult Services | Book clubs, author talks, and other programs for adults |
| Technology Services | Free Wi-Fi, public computers, printing and scanning, and technology workshops |
Community Engagement
The Bedford Public Library is committed to community engagement and outreach, with a variety of programs and services designed to promote literacy, education, and community building. The library hosts author talks, book signings, and other literary events, as well as concerts, art exhibits, and other cultural programs. The library also partners with local organizations to provide health and wellness programs, such as yoga classes and health seminars.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Bedford Public Library offers a range of volunteer opportunities for community members, including shelving books, assisting with programs and events, and participating in the library’s friends group. Volunteers can also help with fundraising efforts, such as book sales and other community events.
- Shelving books and maintaining the library's collection
- Assisting with programs and events, such as author talks and children's storytime
- Participating in the library's friends group, which supports library programs and services
- Helping with fundraising efforts, such as book sales and other community events
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The library is closed on Sundays.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, you can visit the library in person and provide proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill. You can also apply for a library card online and pick it up at the library.
What types of programs and services does the library offer?
+The library offers a wide range of programs and services, including children’s storytime, book clubs, author talks, technology workshops, and more. The library also provides free Wi-Fi, public computers, printing and scanning, and interlibrary loan services.
