The Dunbarton Public Library's mission is to provide free and equal access to print, audiovisual and online resources, programs and exhibits which meet the informational, educational and recreational needs of the entire community

History Of Dunbarton Public Library

The Dunbarton Public Library, founded in 1893, reflects the rural character of this small New Hampshire town, yet strives to provide a link to the wider "community" by offering a responsive collection, community programming, shared resources and the use of new technologies. A brief history of the library is available.

The earliest record for the "Dunbarton Social Library" covers the years 1794 through 1816. A social library would be a lending library where one paid a fee to become a member.

A prospective member paid $1.20 to join, and paid 20¢ for a right (right to use the library) for a year. Books were allowed to be out for 12 weeks. There was a 20¢ fine if not returned at that time and a 1¢ a day fine afterwards.