A brief history
The North Hampton Public Library serves this small seacoast town of approximately 4,384 persons (2016 data). Established in 1892 by Town Meeting, the free, public library was first located in the southwest corner of Town Hall. In 1899 the Library trustees began the push for a dedicated Library building in North Hampton. The result was the 1907 stone and stucco Tudor Revival building adjacent to the current Library. Population growth after World War II made that building inadequate, despite an addition in 1955.
During the 1960’s planning for a larger building began in earnest. The 1972 Town Meeting voted for a new building. Since September 1973, the library was located at 237A Atlantic Avenue.
In January 2020, North Hampton had two competing warrant articles – one for the construction of a new library building and another for an expanded and renovated library. At town meeting on February 1st, an amendment to the Select Board’s warrant article was proposed by a member of the Budget Committee and after a secret ballot vote, the result in favor 103-10, the community amended Article #9 to build the new library on the vacant lot next to the current library building (Homestead lot) under the responsibility and authority of the Library Trustees. The Trustees unanimously voted 3-0 to support Article #9. We are grateful to the community for giving us the opportunity to build an accessible, 21st century library building to be enjoyed by North Hampton residents now and in the years to come. NHPL is happy to announce the opening of our new library building at 239 Atlantic Avenue as of October 2021.
Mission Statement
(Our purpose and why we exist):
The North Hampton Public Library connects our community to resources, programs, and services that empower and inspire lifelong learning, creativity, and cultural engagement.
Vision Statement
(Aspirations we have for our library):
The North Hampton Public Library will be the heart of our community by creating a vibrant and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and inspired.
Value Statement
(What we believe in):
We value:
o Access
o Education & Lifelong learning
o Intellectual Freedom
o Service