Exeter Public Library
The Equalizer
Bottom-up literacy advocacy - The library’s director makes sure to emphasize that this is the core of their philosophy. When children walk in with parents, they are specifically greeted. They are encouraged to learn how to take these first steps into being members of society. Not only are the resources for their enrichment and education being provided, but the staff is so passionate about making this transition as seamless and supportive as possible.
Exeter is probably one of the better-known towns in New Hampshire. If someone has heard of any, it’s fairly likely to be either Portsmouth or Exeter. The town’s rich history is more vast than I could possibly cover here - though if you have time, do look into it.
Currently, it’s what I would consider to be an art-hub, or at least the closest thing that we have to one in the state. Not only is there an absolutely lovely public library, you also have a thriving independent book store, numerous town festivals, and what just might be the most amazing playground in the state. I love spending time in Exeter. There’s so much to do, and it never disappoints. The library itself is very keyed into this identity and prides itself on its rotating art displays and sustainability.
The library finished its most recent renovation in 2021. From what I can tell, it was much needed, and fought hard for by library advocates and residents. I’m so glad that they were able to do that because - WOW!
Building Amenities
Location, location, location. The library is located on the opposite side of the Squamscott river - directly across from from a coffee shop, book store, art store, and a number of other artisan-type shops. There is a walking path along the riverfront, and a HUGE playground just a short drive down the road.
As I mentioned before, the building itself is fairly new. Its design makes it clear what is prioritized - children’s education, the arts, and accessibility in every sense of the term. The library is for everyone, and they really mean it.
The main working area is filled with comfortable tables and its bar-counter-style seating is the perfect height to also be standing desks if that’s preferable. Upstairs, there is a quiet reading area that is filled with plants for that comfortable at-home feel. The meeting and study rooms are also located upstairs and away from the action. Overlooking the river there is both outdoor patio seating and indoor armchair seating.
Children’s Room
Every inch of this area has been specifically tailored with kids in mind. There is kids artwork everywhere. There are interactive community art projects. At the front desk, LC the tortoise and Dewey the guinea pig are front and center - appealing to kids at every corner. Just look at that front desk. It’s completely wrapped in coloring pages just waiting to be filled in. On the side, there’s a step up as well so that the kids themselves can interact with the librarians when they are checking out their books.
Exeter is one of the few buildings that I’ve been to that has a separate craft/art room for the kids. The staff were so proud to show it to me and let me know that it is one of the most heavily-used areas in their Children’s Room arsenal.
Teen Room
So far I haven’t been compelled to specifically take note of the teen areas in the libraries that I’ve encountered. Most of them have them. None of them have them like this.
I have never seen a library that coveted the agency and independence of its teens as much as this one does. The teens have specific input about what goes into the room and how it is organized. The location of the room is also really important. It is separate and away from both the kids and adults. They have their OWN safe space.
Collection
Up to date and fantastically showcased. One of my favorite little bits was the pop culture table shown in this photo. It’s a regularly updated display of relevancy. I love it so much. The staff is also very proud of their HUGE manga collection. Go nerds!
Programs/Events
The upcoming events can be found here. What is particularly notable for me was the variety of offerings. There are tech talks, game groups, book clubs, children’s events, and so - so - so much more.
Friendliness
Perfect staff. 10/10
Passionate, friendly, respectful, and kind. Librarians make the library and they’ve made one of the best here.
Parking
Plenty. There is parking under the building, next to the building, and across from the building. If there happened to be a super popular event and all of that was somehow full, the parking on Water St is somehow still free.
4 Chestnut St
Exeter, NH 03833
Adult Services (603) 772-3101
Children’s Services (603) 772-6036