Moultonborough Public Library
How exactly can you turn down a trip to a library that both has a small Hobbit house AND a candy shop next door? (Yes, I know it’s a country store but we all know that you’re there for the penny candy and pickle barrels)
Moultonborough’s library was first established in 1897 - right across the street from the current location - yes, right above aforementioned pickle barrels. There have been quite a few improvements made since then. When you walk in, you have the older building (printing station, fiction, meeting/study rooms) on the right, with the newer children’s room on the left.
The Info
Building Amenities ★★★★
Hobbit house!!! Yes, this is the most exciting thing about the building. Librarians - I’m sorry - I know you do SO MUCH work that has nothing to do with Hobbit houses, but this was just so cute.
The outdoor patio seating was perfect for lunch and it looks like they’re in the process of building/upgrading their garden space. I haven’t been to this location in 15+ years, so all of the upgrades and renovations were very welcome.
Bonus: The bathroom doesn’t just have a changing station, but they also put out a little dog-poop bag dispenser for you to wrap the diapers in before throwing them away. No one likes a stinky bathroom.
Children’s Room ★★★★
Gorgeous. Bright. Well-appointed. They have clearly put a lot of work into this area and it was, honestly, very necessary. It’s a great space that gives the teens their own area far enough away to not be bugged by the little guys. They have so many games, toys, and puzzles - it’s the perfect place to spend some time. I’m personally a big fan of libraries that are lucky enough to have their own separate storytime area and this one is so sweet and magical. The toys are probably more friendly for the 2+ crowd.
Collection ★★★
Very, very dated collection in the fiction section. The kids area looked more updated and the displays were well thought out.
Friendliness ★★★
Leaves a lot to be desired. There’s a sign on the door to the patio that tells you it’s locked, and to ask a staff member to unlock it for you so that you can go in and out. I wanted to have lunch with my kid out there, so I sought someone out but it seemed like it was a huge inconvenience. Weird but not trip-ruining.
Programs/Services ★★★★★
Moultonborough has an excellent assortment of both adult and kids programs. I’m seeing tech workshops, storytimes, adult crafts, and a lot more. You can find their calendar here.
In addition to events and programs, they have a lot of community resources that are listed on their website, but the staff is also well-versed and willing enough to go over them with you. The seed library is also very cute.
Parking ★★★★★
Perfectly adequate. I could see it getting busy because the rec center and town hall are all right there, but I haven’t had any issues. Just don’t go during Sandwich Fair weekend.