reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-A - The State Library › Section 201-A:19 - Disposition of Fees, Fines and Exchange of Property.

201-A:19 Disposition of Fees, Fines and Exchange of Property. –
I. Any funds accruing to the state library from the sale or exchange of books, pamphlets, maps, manuscripts and other related material, or from fees and fines from lost or damaged property, shall be paid into the state treasury and held in a continuous fund for the purchase of books and related materials for the state library.
II. Any funds accruing to the state library from the sale of data base services, barcodes, cataloging records, magnetic tapes, laser discs, video tapes, or related and similar materials shall be paid into the state treasury and held in a continuous fund for the support of the New Hampshire automated information system.
Source.
1943, 90:1, par. 12. RSA 201:14. 1963, 21:1. 1985, 131:1, eff. July 19, 1985.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-A - The State Library › Section 201-A:20 - Building and Facilities.

201-A:20 Building and Facilities. –
The state library shall control all space in the state library building. The department of administrative services shall maintain the state library building and grounds in suitable repair and condition for use by the state library.
Source.
1893, 11:1. 1895, 31:1. 1917, 59:1. PL 10:29, 48. 1939, 184:3. RL 15:28, 48. 1943, 90:1, par. 17. 1950, 5, part 6:1, par. 17. RSA 201:19, 27. 1963, 21:1. 1973, 214:3. 1985, 268:19.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-A - The State Library › Section 201-A:21 - Definitions.

201-A:21 Definitions. –
As used in this subdivision:
I. [Repealed.]
I-a. "Official locator service" means the system or method by which state government information is disseminated to the public via a telecommunications network or successor technology. This locator service shall identify, locate, and describe publicly available state government information resources, including electronic information resources.
II. "Regional system" means an information network serving one or more communities as established under RSA 201-A:22, II.
III. "Section" means the network services section established as part of the state library under RSA 201-A:22, I.
IV. "System" means the New Hampshire automated information system established under RSA 201-A:22.
Source.
1983, 271:1; 1992, 51:4. 1995, 33:1. 1997, 202:3, eff. Aug. 17, 1997. 2010, 368:28, IV, eff. Dec. 31, 2010.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-A - The State Library › Section 201-A:22 - New Hampshire Automated Information System.

201-A:22 New Hampshire Automated Information System. –
I. There shall be a section as part of the state library operated by the division of libraries in the department of natural and cultural resources. The network services section shall oversee the functioning and maintenance of the system.
II. The system shall consist of an integrated automated data processing and information retrieval system, regional systems, and an integrated statewide information network. The information network shall include public, academic, school, and special libraries, organizations, and government departments, agencies, and their subdivisions. The system shall include the following elements and operations as rapidly as funds and circumstances permit:
(a) General and governmental reference and research capabilities.
(b) Unique indexing and retrieval capabilities for New Hampshire state documents.
(c) A union catalog of statewide library holdings.
(d) A directory of information concerning state agencies and their services.
(e) Cataloging, electronic mail, and electronic interlibrary functions for the libraries included in the information network.
(f) Any other operation considered desirable, necessary or feasible.
Source.
1983, 271:1. 1985, 268:20. 1990, 73:1. 1992, 51:5. 1995, 33:2, 3. 1998, 363:3, eff. Aug. 25, 1998. 2017, 156:38, eff. July 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-A - The State Library › Section 201-A:23 - Purpose of New Hampshire Automated Information System.

201-A:23 Purpose of New Hampshire Automated Information System. –
The purposes of the system shall be to:
I. Allow New Hampshire library management to assume additional responsibility for the availability, accuracy and validity of data accumulated and processed locally.
II. Allow New Hampshire libraries to utilize distributed data processing solutions which satisfy end-user needs within the policies and procedures which are developed by the commissioner of natural and cultural resources.
III. Provide electronic access to state government information to libraries, state agencies, and the general public.
Source.
1983, 271:1. 1985, 268:21. 1990, 73:1. 1992, 51:6. 1997, 202:4. 1998, 363:3, eff. Aug. 25, 1998. 2017, 156:38, eff. July 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-A - The State Library › Section 201-A:24, 201-A:24-a - Repealed by 2010, 368:1(21), eff. Dec. 31, 2010.

201-A:24, 201-A:24-a Repealed by 2010, 368:1(21), eff. Dec. 31, 2010. –
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-B - Interstate Library Compact › Section 201-B:2 - Limitation on Capital Expenditures.

201-B:2 Limitation on Capital Expenditures. –
No city or town of this state shall be party to a library agreement which provides for the construction or maintenance of a library pursuant to Article III, (c)(7) of the compact, nor pledge its credit in support of such a library, or contribute to the capital financing thereof, except after compliance with any laws applicable to such cities or towns relating to or governing capital outlays and the pledging of credit.
Source.
1963, 106:1, eff. July 23, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-B - Interstate Library Compact › Section 201-B:3 - Definition.

201-B:3 Definition. –
As used in the compact, "state library agency", with reference to this state, means the commissioner of natural and cultural resources.
Source.
1963, 106:1. 1985, 268:6, I(a). 1990, 73:1. 1998, 363:3, eff. Aug. 25, 1998. 2017, 156:38, eff. July 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-B - Interstate Library Compact › Section 201-B:4 - Eligibility for Aid.

201-B:4 Eligibility for Aid. –
An interstate library district lying partly within this state may claim and be entitled to receive state aid in support of any of its functions to the same extent and in the same manner as such functions are eligible for support when carried on by entities wholly within this state. For the purposes of computing and apportioning state aid to an interstate library district, this state will consider that portion of the area which lies within this state as an independent entity for the performance of the aided function or functions and compute and apportion the aid accordingly. Subject to any applicable laws of this state, such a district also may apply for and be entitled to receive any federal aid for which it may be eligible.
Source.
1963, 106:1, eff. July 23, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-B - Interstate Library Compact › Section 201-B:5 - Designation of Administrator.

201-B:5 Designation of Administrator. –
The state librarian shall be the compact administrator pursuant to Article X of the compact. The assistant state librarian shall be the deputy compact administrator pursuant to said Article.
Source.
1963, 106:1, eff. July 23, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-B - Interstate Library Compact › Section 201-B:6 - Withdrawal.

201-B:6 Withdrawal. –
In the event of withdrawal from the compact the state librarian shall send and receive any notices required by Article XI(b) of the compact.
Source.
1963, 106:1, eff. July 23, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:1 - Definitions.

201-D:1 Definitions. –
In this chapter:
I. "Accredited library" means a member library which meets the standards of the highest category of affiliation, including providing specified services to other area libraries.
II. "Associate library" means a member library which meets the basic standards for affiliation.
III. "Certified library" means a member library which meets the standards for the middle category of affiliation, including providing specified services to nearby libraries.
IV. "Commissioner" means the commissioner of natural and cultural resources.
V. "Cooperative" means any joint effort by 2 or more libraries to improve library service.
VI. "Development system" means the statewide library development system, a network of public and other than public libraries cooperating in communities, regions and statewide to provide better library service.
VII. "Member library" means a public library which has been granted associate, certified, or accredited status by the commissioner.
VIII. "Public library" means a library which provides customary services, without charge, to all the residents of a town, city, or larger area.
IX. "Other than public library" means a school, college or university, medical, business or other special library.
Source.
1981, 499:2. 1985, 268:6, I(b), 25. 1990, 73:1. 1998, 363:3, eff. Aug. 25, 1998. 2017, 156:38, eff. July 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:2 - Member Libraries.

201-D:2 Member Libraries. –
There shall be 3 categories of member libraries: associate, certified, and accredited. The commissioner, through his rulemaking authority established under RSA 201-D:10, shall set affiliation standards for each category. The commissioner may establish subcategories. Any public library may become a member library by meeting the standards for any of the categories and following the application procedures set by the commissioner. Application for membership or change in status shall require the approval of the local library trustees. The commissioner may revoke the membership or change the category of any library which no longer meets the affiliation standards or which requests a change in status. Any affected library has the right to appeal a commissioner decision on membership.
Source.
1981, 499:2. 1985, 268:6, I(b).
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:3 - State Aid.

201-D:3 State Aid. –
Each member library shall receive an annual allocation of state funds to supplement the local appropriation and other income. Library cooperatives which include member libraries may receive state aid. The state aid shall be used only to support library services in member libraries and in cooperatives including member libraries. The amount of the allocation for each library shall be based on specified local expenditures for the library, and on its membership category. The commissioner shall set an allocation rate for each category, with progressively higher rates for certified and accredited libraries in recognition of service beyond their own towns or cities.
Source.
1981, 499:2. 1985, 268:6, I(b).
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:4 - State Services.

201-D:4 State Services. –
The state library shall provide services to member libraries within the funds available and in keeping with the goal of efficient use of library resources in the state.
Source.
1981, 499:2, eff. Aug. 28, 1981.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:5 - State Library Staff.

201-D:5 State Library Staff. –
The state library shall employ consultants and other staff to promote the development system by working with library forums, cooperatives, and other groups which include member libraries.
Source.
1981, 499:2, eff. Aug. 28, 1981.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:6 - Areas.

201-D:6 Areas. –
The state shall be divided into 4 or more library areas. These areas shall coincide geographically with the local automated systems. Each area may include one or more cooperatives. The commissioner shall set the number and boundaries of the areas as the automated networks develop. The goal of these decisions shall be to promote cooperative efforts on a local basis and to promote the most efficient use of local and state library resources.
Source.
1981, 499:2. 1985, 268:6, I(b). 1987, 7:1, eff. May 22, 1987.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:7 - Library Forums.

201-D:7 Library Forums. –
Each library area shall have a library forum consisting of one representative from each public library, at least one representative from each school district, and a representative of each other than public library which chooses to participate. The state library shall be represented on each forum.
Source.
1981, 499:2, eff. Aug. 28, 1981.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:8 - Selection of Representatives.

201-D:8 Selection of Representatives. –
The board of trustees of each public library, and the governing body of each other than public library, shall select its representative to the area library forum.
Source.
1981, 499:2, eff. Aug. 28, 1981.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:9 - Purposes.

201-D:9 Purposes. –
The purposes of the library forums are to:
I. Encourage information sharing between area libraries.
II. Promote cooperative planning and services among area libraries.
III. Provide liaison between area libraries and the state library.
IV. Communicate with the commissioner on local needs and state library services.
Source.
1981, 499:2. 1985, 268:6, I(b).
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:10 - Rulemaking.

201-D:10 Rulemaking. –
The commissioner shall adopt rules under RSA 541-A and after public hearing, and subject to ratification by the state library council, relative to:
I. Standards for the associate, certified and accredited categories, and for any subcategory, concerning any or all of the following:
(a) Level of service;
(b) Evaluation and planning;
(c) Cooperation with other libraries;
(d) Participation in the library forum and statewide programs;
(e) Personnel qualifications;
(f) Organization of materials; and
(g) Physical facilities.
II. Allocation of state aid and other funds to individual libraries, cooperatives and other groups, and library areas. For state aid, this shall include setting the allocation rate for each membership category and the local library expenditures to be counted in applying the rate.
III. Requirements that member libraries adopt written policies concerning any or all of the following:
(a) General objectives;
(b) Organization of materials;
(c) Materials selection and collection development;
(d) Personnel;
(e) Public relations; and
(f) Cooperation with public school libraries.
IV. Reporting requirements for funded programs and services.
V. Number and boundaries of library areas.
VI. Democratic procedures for library forums.
Source.
1981, 499:2. 1985, 268:26.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-D - Statewide Library Development System › Section 201-D:11 - Library User Records; Confidentiality.

201-D:11 Library User Records;  Confidentiality. –
I. Library records which contain the names or other personal identifying information regarding the users of public or other than public libraries shall be confidential and shall not be disclosed except as provided in paragraph II. Such records include, but are not limited to, library, information system, and archival records related to the circulation and use of library materials or services, including records of materials that have been viewed or stored in electronic form.
II. Records described in paragraph I may be disclosed to the extent necessary for the proper operation of such libraries and shall be disclosed upon request by or consent of the user or pursuant to subpoena, court order, or where otherwise required by statute.
III. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit any library from releasing statistical information and other data regarding the circulation or use of library materials provided, however, that the identity of the users of such library materials shall be considered confidential and shall not be disclosed to the general public except as provided in paragraph II.
Source.
1989, 184:3, eff. July 21, 1989. 2009, 273:1, eff. July 29, 2009.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-E - Museum Property Act › Section 201-E:2 - Definitions.

201-E:2 Definitions. –
In this chapter:
I. "Loan" means a deposit of property not accompanied by a transfer of title to the property.
II. "Museum" means an institution located in New Hampshire operated by a nonprofit corporation or a public agency, primarily for educational, scientific, historic preservation, or aesthetic purposes, which owns, cares for, exhibits, studies, archives, or catalogs property. "Museum" includes, but is not limited to, historical societies, historic sites or landmarks, parks, monuments, and libraries.
III. "Property" means a tangible object, animate or inanimate, under a museum's care which has intrinsic historic, artistic, scientific, or cultural value.
Source.
1989, 87:2, eff. June 30, 1989.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-E - Museum Property Act › Section 201-E:3 - Property Held Without a Loan Agreement.

201-E:3 Property Held Without a Loan Agreement. –
Any property held by a museum within the state, other than by terms of a loan agreement, that has been held for 5 years or more and has remained unclaimed shall be deemed to be abandoned. Such property shall become the property of the museum, if the museum has given notice pursuant to RSA 201-E:5 and no assertion of title has been filed for the property within 90 days from the date of the second published notice.
Source.
1989, 87:2, eff. June 30, 1989.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-E - Museum Property Act › Section 201-E:4 - Property Held Subject to a Loan Agreement.

201-E:4 Property Held Subject to a Loan Agreement. –
I. Property subject to a loan agreement which is on loan to a museum shall be deemed to be donated to the museum if no claim is made or action filed to recover the property after termination or expiration of the loan and if the museum has given notice under RSA 201-E:5 and no assertion of title has been filed within 90 days from the date of the second published notice.
II. A museum may terminate a loan of property if the property was loaned to the museum for an indefinite term and the property has been held by the museum for 5 years or more. Property on "permanent loan" shall be considered loaned for an indefinite term.
III. If property was loaned to the museum for a specified term, the museum may give notice of termination of the loan at any time after expiration of the specified term.
IV. It is the responsibility of the owner of property on loan to a museum to notify the museum promptly in writing of any change of address or change in ownership of the property.
V. When a museum accepts a loan of property, the museum shall inform the owner in writing of the provisions of this chapter.
Source.
1989, 87:2, eff. June 30, 1989.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-E - Museum Property Act › Section 201-E:5 - Notice Requirements.

201-E:5 Notice Requirements. –
I. When a museum is required to give notice of abandonment of property or of termination of a loan, the museum shall mail such notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the last known owner at the most recent address of such owner as shown on the museum's records. If the museum has no address on record, or the museum does not receive written proof of receipt of the mailed notice within 30 days of the date the notice was mailed, the museum shall publish notice, at least once each week for 2 consecutive weeks, in a newspaper of general circulation in both the county in which the museum is located and the county in which the last known address, if available, of the owner is located.
II. The published notice shall contain:
(a) A description of the unclaimed property;
(b) The name and last known address of the owner;
(c) A request that all persons who may have any knowledge of the whereabouts of the owner provide written notice to the museum; and
(d) A statement that if written assertion of title is not presented by the owner to the museum within 90 days from the date of the second published notice, the property shall be considered abandoned or donated and shall become the property of the museum.
III. For purposes of this chapter, if the loan of property was made to a branch of a museum, the museum shall be considered to be located in the county in which the branch is located. Otherwise the museum is located in the county in which it has its principal place of business.
Source.
1989, 87:2, eff. June 30, 1989.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-E - Museum Property Act › Section 201-E:6 - Property Vested In Museum.

201-E:6 Property Vested In Museum. –
I. If no written assertion of title has been presented by the owner to the museum within 90 days from the date of the second published notice, title to the property shall vest in the museum, free of all claims of the owner and of all persons claiming under the owner.
II. One who purchases or otherwise acquires property from a museum acquires good title to the property if the museum has acquired title to the property under this chapter.
Source.
1989, 87:2, eff. June 30, 1989.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 201-E - Museum Property Act › Section 201-E:7 - Rulemaking.

201-E:7 Rulemaking. –
The commissioner of the department of natural and cultural resources shall adopt rules under RSA 541-A relative to:
I. The form of written notification to persons loaning property under RSA 201-E:4, V.
II. Procedures for recordkeeping.
Source.
1989, 87:2. 1990, 73:1. 1998, 363:3, eff. Aug. 25, 1998. 2017, 156:38, eff. July 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:1 - Declaration of Policy.

202-A:1 Declaration of Policy. –
Mindful that, as the constitution declares, "knowledge and learning, generally diffused through a community" are "essential to the preservation of a free government" the legislature recognizes its duty to encourage the people of New Hampshire to extend their education during and beyond the years of formal education. To this end, it hereby declares that the public library is a valuable supplement to the formal system of free public education and as such deserves adequate financial support from government at all levels.
Source.
1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:2 - Definitions.

202-A:2 Definitions. –
As used in this chapter the following words shall be construed as follows unless the context clearly requires otherwise:
I. "Public library" shall mean every library which receives regular financial support, at least annually, from public or private sources and which provides regular and currently useful library service to the public without charge. The words may be construed to include reference and circulating libraries, reading rooms and museums regularly open to the public.
II. "Library trustees" shall mean the governing board of a public library.
Source.
1891, 62:3, 4, 5. 1917, 59:1. PL 10:50. RL 15:50. RSA 202:1. 1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:3 - Establishment.

202-A:3 Establishment. –
Any town may establish a public library by majority vote at any duly warned town meeting. Any town may vote in the same manner to accept a public library which has been provided, in whole or in part, by private donation or bequest and may accept any bequest, devise or donation for the establishment, maintenance and support of such a library. The powers herein granted to a town may be exercised by a city by vote of the city council.
Source.
1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:3-a - Records and Meetings Subject to Right-to-Know Law.

202-A:3-a Records and Meetings Subject to Right-to-Know Law. –
A public library established or accepted by a town or city shall be deemed a "public agency," and the library trustees a "public body," for purposes of RSA 91-A, and they shall be subject to all applicable provisions of that chapter; provided, however, that any books, documents, records, or other information maintained by a public library that is exempted or protected from disclosure by other provisions of law shall not be subject to disclosure under RSA 91-A.
Source.
2012, 96:1, eff. July 28, 2012.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:4 - Maintenance.

202-A:4 Maintenance. –
Any city or town having a public library shall annually raise and appropriate a sum of money sufficient to provide and maintain adequate public library service therein or to supplement funds otherwise provided.
Source.
1895, 118:1-8. 1917, 59:1. PL 10:51. 1927, 82:2. 1933, 60:1. RL 15:51. RSA 202:2. 1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:4-a - Cooperatives.

202-A:4-a Cooperatives. –
Any public library may join library cooperatives consisting of public libraries, or of public and other than public libraries including school, college and university, and special libraries. Towns are authorized to raise and appropriate sufficient money for participation in cooperatives.
Source.
1981, 499:4, eff. Aug. 28, 1981.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:4-b - Contracts for Services.

202-A:4-b Contracts for Services. –
Any town may contract with another town or city, or with an institution or other organization, for any library service. If a town meeting votes to enter into such a contract, the town shall raise and appropriate sufficient money to carry out the contract.
Source.
1981, 499:4, eff. Aug. 28, 1981.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:4-c - Trustees' Authority to Accept and Expend Gifts.

202-A:4-c Trustees' Authority to Accept and Expend Gifts. –
I. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, any town at an annual meeting may adopt an article authorizing indefinitely until specific rescission of such authority, the public library trustees to apply for, accept and expend, without further action by the town meeting, unanticipated money from the state, federal or other governmental unit or a private source which becomes available during the fiscal year. The following shall apply:
(a) Such warrant article to be voted on shall read: "Shall the town accept the provisions of RSA 202-A:4-c providing that any town at an annual meeting may adopt an article authorizing indefinitely, until specific rescission of such authority, the public library trustees to apply for, accept and expend, without further action by the town meeting, unanticipated money from a state, federal or other governmental unit or a private source which becomes available during the fiscal year?"
(b) If a majority of voters voting on the question vote in the affirmative, the proposed warrant article shall be in effect in accordance with the terms of the article until such time as the town meeting votes to rescind its vote.
II. Such money shall be used only for legal purposes for which a town may appropriate money.
III. (a) For unanticipated moneys in the amount of $5,000 or more, the public library trustees shall hold a prior public hearing on the action to be taken. Notice of the time, place, and subject of such hearing shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the relevant municipality at least 7 days before the hearing is held.
(b) The public library trustees may establish the amount of unanticipated funds required for notice under this subparagraph, provided such amount is less than $5,000. For unanticipated moneys in an amount less than $5,000, the public library trustees shall post notice of the moneys in the agenda, if any, and shall include notice in the minutes of the public library trustees meeting in which such moneys are discussed. The acceptance of unanticipated moneys under this subparagraph shall be made in public session of any regular public library trustees meeting.
IV. Action to be taken under this section shall:
(a) Not require the expenditure of other town funds except those funds lawfully appropriated for the same purpose; and
(b) Be exempt from all provisions of RSA 32, relative to limitations and expenditures of town moneys.
Source.
1991, 31:1. 1993, 176:16. 2005, 188:3, eff. Aug. 29, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:4-d - Acceptance of Personal Property Donated to Libraries.

202-A:4-d Acceptance of Personal Property Donated to Libraries. –
I. Any town at an annual meeting may adopt an article authorizing the public library trustees to accept gifts of personal property, other than money, which may be offered to the library for any public purpose, and such authorization shall remain in effect until rescinded by a vote of town meeting.
II. The warrant article may require that, prior to the acceptance of any gift valued at over $5,000, the public library trustees shall hold a public hearing on the proposed acceptance.
III. No acceptance of any personal property under the authority of this section shall be deemed to bind the town or the library trustees to raise, appropriate, or expend any public funds for the operation, maintenance, repair, or replacement of such personal property.
Source.
1996, 33:1, eff. June 23, 1996; 216:1, eff. June 23, 1996, at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:5 - Status.

202-A:5 Status. –
Every public library shall remain forever free to the use of every resident of the town wherein it is located.
Source.
1891, 62:3, 4, 5. 1917, 59:1. PL 10:50. RL 15:50. RSA 202:1. 1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:6 - Library Trustees; Election; Alternates.

202-A:6 Library Trustees;  Election;  Alternates. –
The library trustees shall have the entire custody and management of the public library and of all the property of the town relating thereto, including appropriations held pursuant to RSA 202-A:11, III, but excepting trust funds held by the town. Any town having a public library shall, at a duly warned town meeting, elect a board of library trustees consisting of any odd number of persons which the town may decide to elect. Such trustees shall serve staggered 3-year terms or until their successors are elected and qualified. There may be no more than 3 alternates as provided in RSA 202-A:10.
Source.
1917, 59:1. PL 10:52. RL 15:55. RSA 202:6. 1963, 46:1. 1987, 89:1. 2000, 9:2, eff. April 16, 2000.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:7 - Special Provisions.

202-A:7 Special Provisions. –
In any town where a public library has been acquired by the town, in whole or in part, by donation or bequest containing other conditions or provisions for the election of its trustees or other governing board, which conditions have been agreed to by vote of the town and which conditions do not provide for a representative of the public, a special library trustee, to represent the public, shall be elected by the town for a 3-year term. Said special trustee shall act with the other trustees.
Source.
1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:8 - City Trustees.

202-A:8 City Trustees. –
The trustees of a public library in a city shall be elected as provided in the city charter. In case of trustees of a city library acquired by a city in whole or in part, by donation or bequest containing other conditions or provisions for the election or appointment of trustees, which conditions do not provide for a representative of the public on the board, the city council shall elect to said board a public trustee for a 3-year term.
Source.
1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:10 - Library Trustees; Vacancies; Alternates.

202-A:10 Library Trustees;  Vacancies;  Alternates. –
Vacancies occurring on any board of library trustees in a town shall be filled as provided in RSA 669:75. A vacancy occurring among the publicly elected members of the board of library trustees of a city library shall be filled by the city council or other appropriate appointing authority within 2 months of the notice by the remaining members of the board of trustees. The board of library trustees may recommend to the appointing authority names of persons for appointment to vacancies on expired terms. The board of library trustees may recommend to the appointing authority the names of no more than 3 persons who may serve as alternate members on the board when elected members of the board are unable to attend a board meeting. The alternate members shall be appointed to one-year terms.
Source.
1917, 59:1. PL 10:55. RL 15:58. RSA 202:9. 1963, 46:1. 1979, 410:19. 2000, 9:3, eff. April 16, 2000.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:11 - Powers and Duties.

202-A:11 Powers and Duties. –
Except in those cities where other provision has been made by general or special act of the legislature, the library trustees of every public library in the state shall:
I. Adopt bylaws, rules and regulations for its own transaction of business and for the government of the library;
II. Prepare an annual budget indicating what support and maintenance of the free public library will be required out of public funds for submission to the appropriate agency of the municipality. A separate budget request shall be submitted for new construction, capital improvements of existing library property;
III. Expend all moneys raised and appropriated by the town or city for library purposes and shall direct that such moneys be paid over by the town or city treasurer pursuant to a payment schedule as agreed to by the library trustees and the selectmen or city council. All money received from fines and payments for lost or damaged books or for the support of a library in another city or town under contract to furnish library service to such town or city, shall be used for general repairs and upgrading, and for the purchase of books, supplies and income-generating equipment, shall be held in a nonlapsing separate fund and shall be in addition to the appropriation;
IV. Expend income from all trust funds for library purposes for the support and maintenance of the public library in said town or city in accordance with the conditions of each donation or bequest accepted by the town or city;
V. Appoint a librarian who shall not be a trustee and, in consultation with the librarian, all other employees of the library and determine their compensation and other terms of employment unless, in the cities, other provision is made in the city charter or ordinances.
Source.
1917, 59:1. 1919, 35:1. PL 10:56. 1927, 82:4. 1933, 60:3. RL 15:59. 1943, 90:2. RSA 202:10. 1963, 46:1. 1983, 272:1. 2000, 9:4, eff. April 16, 2000.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:11-a - Use of Additional Funds.

202-A:11-a Use of Additional Funds. –
All money received from a library's income-generating equipment shall be retained by the library in a nonlapsing fund and used for general repairs and upgrading and for the purchase of books, supplies and income-generating equipment if approved by the town or city in which the library is located in accordance with RSA 202-A:11-b.
Source.
1983, 272:2, eff. Aug. 17, 1983.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:12 - Annual Reports.

202-A:12 Annual Reports. –
Every library regularly open to the public, or to some portion of the public, with or without limitations, whether its ownership is vested in the town, in a corporation, in an organization or association, or in individuals, shall make a written report to the town or city at the conclusion of each fiscal year of (a) all receipts from whatever sources, (b) all expenditures, (c) all property in the trustees' care and custody, including a statement and explanation of any unexpended balance of money they may have, (d) and any bequests or donations they may have received and are holding in behalf of the town, with such recommendations in reference to the same as they may deem necessary for the town to consider, (e) the total number of books and other materials and the number added by gift, purchase and otherwise; the number lost or withdrawn, (f) the number of borrowers and readers and a statement of the use of the property of the library in furthering the educational requirements of the municipality and such other information and suggestions as may seem desirable, (g) submit a similar report to the state librarian at such time and on such forms as the commissioner of natural and cultural resources may require.
Source.
1917, 59:1. PL 10:57. RL 15:60. RSA 202:11. 1963, 46:1. 1990, 73:1. 1998, 363:3, eff. Aug. 25, 1998. 2017, 156:38, eff. July 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:12-a - Trust Fund Annual Reports.

202-A:12-a Trust Fund Annual Reports. –
Any public library holding funds in trust shall report to the office of the attorney general, annually at the conclusion of each fiscal year, the information required by RSA 202-A:12(a) through (d).
Source.
1986, 74:1, eff. July 11, 1986.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:13 - Discretionary Powers.

202-A:13 Discretionary Powers. –
The library trustees shall also have the following powers:
I. To authorize the payment from library funds for the necessary expenses of library staff members attending library courses and meetings for professional advancement;
II. To extend the privileges and use of the library to nonresidents upon such terms and conditions as they may prescribe;
III. To deposit library funds for the purchase of books and related materials with the state treasurer to secure economies through pooling of purchasing with the state library. Such funds so deposited shall be held by the state treasurer in a separate account to be paid out upon orders of the state library. The state library shall have no control over the selection of items to be purchased by public libraries.
Source.
1917, 59:1. 1919, 35:1. PL 10:56. 1927, 82:4. 1933, 60:3. RL 15:59. 1943, 90:2. RSA 202:10. 1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:14 - Compensation of Trustees.

202-A:14 Compensation of Trustees. –
No trustee of any public library shall receive any compensation for any services rendered as such trustee, unless compensation is stipulated in the terms of the bequest or gift establishing the library. Trustees may be reimbursed, however, for necessary travel expenses to attend professional meetings.
Source.
1933, 60:4. RL 15:61. RSA 202:12. 1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:15 - Public Librarian; Qualification and Tenure.

202-A:15 Public Librarian;  Qualification and Tenure. –
The librarian shall have education of sufficient breadth and depth to give leadership in the use of books and related materials. The librarian shall be appointed by the board of library trustees for a term of office agreed to at the time of employment and may serve until a successor is appointed and qualified.
Source.
1963, 46:1. 1996, 33:3, eff. June 23, 1996. 2023, 80:1, eff. Aug. 19, 2023.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:16 - Powers and Duties.

202-A:16 Powers and Duties. –
In addition to any other duties which the librarian may be delegated from time to time, the public librarian shall:
I. Serve as the administrative officer of the public library;
II. Recommend to the board of library trustees the appointment of all employees.
Source.
1963, 46:1. 1996, 33:4, eff. June 23, 1996.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:17 - Employees; Removal.

202-A:17 Employees;  Removal. –
No employee of a public library shall be discharged or removed from office except by the library trustees for malfeasance, misfeasance, or inefficiency in office, or incapacity or unfitness to perform the employee's duties. Prior to the discharge or removal of any such employee, a statement of the grounds and reasons therefor shall be prepared by the library trustees, and signed by a majority of the board, and notice thereof shall be given to the employee not less than 15 days nor more than 30 days prior to the effective date of such discharge or removal. Upon receipt of said notice and within 30 days thereafter, but not otherwise, the employee may request a public hearing. If such request is made, the library trustees shall hold a public hearing on such discharge or removal. The hearing shall be held not more than 30 days after receipt of the request for the hearing, and if the trustees, upon due hearing, shall find good cause for discharge or removal of the employee, they shall order the employee's discharge or removal from office. There shall be no change in salary of such employee during the proceedings for discharge or removal nor until the final effective date of the order for discharge or removal. The provisions of this section shall apply to the employees of any public library except in a case where the city or town has personnel rules and regulations which apply to such employees and which make provision for a public hearing in the case of such discharge or removal.
Source.
1955, 18:1. RSA 202:10-a. 1963, 46:1. 1996, 33:5, eff. June 23, 1996.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:18 - Discontinuance of Library.

202-A:18 Discontinuance of Library. –
Any town now maintaining a public library established by expenditure of town funds may by majority vote at a regular town meeting discontinue said library. In case of such discontinuance, the library property of the town may be loaned or disposed of by the library trustees, subject to the approval of the commissioner of natural and cultural resources. The provisions of this section shall not apply in cases where a public library has been acquired by the town in whole or in part by donation or bequest.
Source.
1933, 60:2. RL 15:54. RSA 202:5. 1963, 46:1. 1985, 268:41. 1990, 73:1. 1998, 363:3, eff. Aug. 25, 1998. 2017, 156:38, eff. July 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:19 - Defunct Libraries.

202-A:19 Defunct Libraries. –
When a public library in any town shall, as such, cease to function, all books or other property given by the state for the use of said library or purchased with state funds shall be returned to the state by the selectmen of said town, delivery to be made to the commissioner of natural and cultural resources, who shall have the power to retain, sell, distribute, or otherwise dispose of such returned books or property as in its judgment seems wise.
Source.
1917, 59:1. PL 10:58. 1927, 82:5. RL 15:62. RSA 202:13. 1963, 46:1. 1990, 73:1. 1998, 363:3, eff. Aug. 25, 1998. 2017, 156:38, eff. July 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:20 - Custody of Publications.

202-A:20 Custody of Publications. –
Any town clerk, board of selectmen, or others having custody of the books, pamphlets, and public documents that have been sent to the towns by the departments of state government may, with consent of the librarian, transfer these publications to the public library, upon condition that they be included in the catalogues of the library and be made accessible to the public.
Source.
1913, 48:1. PL 10:60. RL 15:64. RSA 202:15. 1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:21 - Penalties.

202-A:21 Penalties. –
Any town or library official violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Source.
1917, 59:1. PL 10:61. RL 15:65. RSA 202:16. 1963, 46:1. 1973, 529:38, eff. Oct. 31, 1973 at 11:59 p.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:22 - Custody and Control of Trust Funds.

202-A:22 Custody and Control of Trust Funds. –
Trust funds given to towns and cities for the use of a public library shall be held in the custody and under the management of the trustees of trust funds. The entire income from such funds shall be paid over to the library trustees. Payment of such income shall be made by the trustees of trust funds to the library trustees as the same is received.
Source.
1917, 59:1. 1919, 35:1. PL 10:56. 1927, 82:4. 1933, 60:3. RL 15:59. 1943, 90:2. RSA 202:10. 1963, 46:1, eff. July 1, 1963.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:23 - Exceptions.

202-A:23 Exceptions. –
Nothing in this chapter shall preclude the library trustees from accepting, receiving, investing, and administering directly any trust funds and donations when so specified by the donor. Library trustees administering and investing such special funds shall be governed by the provisions of RSA 31:25, RSA 31:25-d, and RSA 41:6.
Source.
1963, 46:1. 1983, 264:5. 1991, 31:2, eff. June 18, 1991. 2014, 32:6, eff. July 26, 2014.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XVI - Libraries › Chapter 202-A - Public Libraries › Section 202-A:24 - Offenses Against Libraries.

202-A:24 Offenses Against Libraries. –
Any person who shall wilfully or maliciously deface, damage or destroy any property belonging to or in the care of any gallery or museum or any state, public, school, college, or other institutional library, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Any such person shall forfeit to or for the use of such library, gallery, or museum, 3 times the amount of the damage sustained, to be recovered in an action in the superior court.
Source.
1959, 60:1. RSA 572:42-a. 1973, 529:128; 532:11, eff. Nov. 1, 1973.