The library has returned to normal hours, and most services are open as usual. We will continue to keep this page updated if changes occur. Masks are still required in the library building. Please read on for more information!

MASK REQUIREMENT INFORMATION

Anyone over the age of 6 will be required to wear a face mask to enter the library, and at all times while in the building. That shall not include any person with a medical condition or disability that prevents wearing a mask or other face covering.

Please note that we continue to serve a population which, for the time being, cannot be vaccinated. Thank you for helping to keep everyone safe, especially our youngest visitors!

BROWSING THE LIBRARY

The library will no longer limit general capacity in the building, or the length of your overall visit. However, you may still check how many people are currently in the building - view our current occupancy here!

Note that capacity and visit lengths are still limited in the Youth Services area of the building. Families or teens who plan to visit the Youth Services area of the library should make a 30-minute appointment in advance to ensure that their preferred time is reserved. Please read on for more information. Everyone visiting this area must check in at the Youth Services desk.

If you have items on hold, you can pick them up in the library lobby – already checked out and ready to go!

Magazines and Newspapers are now open for browsing. Reference and Special Collections are also open to the public. Need assistance? Feel free to visit the Reference Desk or call us at 603-766-1720.

Study carrels and other seating options are available.

Study Rooms

Study rooms are available for use by groups of 1 – 4 people. To make an appointment, please call the Reference Desk at 603-766-1720. Walk-ins will be accepted when possible.

Meeting Rooms

We are pleased to announce that meeting rooms will be open for booking, beginning Monday August 2.

Meeting rooms are intended for library programming, and for public gatherings of a civic, cultural, or educational nature. They may be used by any Portsmouth cultural, civic, educational, or non-profit group or organization.

There are three meeting rooms available. Please note that room occupancy limits are smaller at this time.

Levenson Community Room (1st floor), 50 people
Hilton Garden Inn Room (2nd floor), 20 people
MacLeod Board Room (2nd floor), 8 people

Capacity is limited at this time. For more information and to apply for a meeting room, visit cityofportsmouth.com/library/reserve-room. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (603) 766-1712.

Youth Services Browsing Appointments

Capacity and visit lengths are still limited in the Youth Services area.

The library offers 30-minute appointments for families and teens to access this area. Please call the Youth Services desk at 603-766-1740 to make an appointment before coming.

You will be asked for the exact number of people in your family group, and we do encourage you to limit the total number of family members coming.

Everyone visiting this area must check in at the Youth Services desk.

COMPUTER USE

You no longer need to make an appointment for computer use. The library will offer computer use on the second floor for up to 50 minutes per visit. Masks must be properly worn throughout the entire 50 minutes. Only one person per computer, please!

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Anyone over the age of 6 will be required to wear a face mask to enter the library, and at all times while in the building. Please note that we continue to serve a population which, for the time being, cannot be vaccinated. Thank you for helping to keep everyone safe, especially our youngest visitors!

Bathrooms will be available on the first and second floors. Note that our bathrooms are cleaned every day, but we cannot guarantee they are cleaned in between uses.

Please note that we have also upgraded the library building’s HVAC system, and maintain adequate stores of protective equipment for staff.

Current Library Services