Paper Snowflakes on Blue Background with white waves and dots graphics

NEWS

From the Director's Desk

Dear Leach Library patrons, 


I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the Leach Library patrons for the past 4 years.  I feel that we as a community have created a welcoming place for all of the citizens of Londonderry. We did this by joining the GMILCS consortium, doing outreach like the Senior Expo and Old Home Days, adding a lot more programming and creating a space that can be enjoyed by everyone.


I am so thankful that I met so many new people during my time here and I will miss seeing so many of you. Thank you for supporting me and my staff and for supporting your local library.


"A library is not a luxury but one of the necessities of life."
—Henry Ward Beecher


Sincerely, 
Erin Matlin 
Leach Library Director 

New Limited-Time Museum Passes

Leach Library is excited to announce that two limited-time museum passes are available to cardholders during 2026. These special museum passes provide patrons with access to more local experiences while remaining fiscally responsible.


The first pass admits two adults and up to four children for free to the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts.


The second pass for the Springfield Museums in Springfield, Massachusetts, offers access to five different attractions including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum. Patrons using the pass will receive a 50% discount on the second admission of equal or lesser value.


Museum passes may be reserved by Leach Library cardholders up to 90 days in advance on the library's website or by calling (603) 432-1132.

Leach Library Food Pantry

A free food pantry is now open at the Leach Library! It is discreetly located on the lower level for worry-free browsing any time during normal library operating hours. Please take any items you need. The lower level is accessible by stairs or elevator. There are limited bags available for use.


Donations of non-perishable, unexpired food and household items can be dropped off inside the library during operating hours. There is a collection box across from the main desk. Please no refrigerated items or glass containers. For more information, call the library at (603) 432-1132.

Circulation Policy Update Announcement

Due to the passing of House Bill 273 and the update to NH RSA 201-D:11, II-a, the following Leach Library Circulation Policy update for minor cardholders went into effect on January 1, 2026. The full policy is available for review on the library’s website. For more information, call the library at (603) 432-1132.


Beginning January 1, 2026, in accordance with NH RSA 201-D:11, II-a, a parent or legal guardian may request library records of their minor child’s library account for all print and audio/visual materials currently checked out to the minor child.


A parent or legal guardian requesting access to their minor child’s library account must present government-issued identification at the time of the request to verify that they are currently authorized on the library account.


If the parent or legal guardian is not currently authorized on their minor child’s library account, then they must provide proof of relationship to the minor child such as a government-issued identification with the same address as minor child, a birth certificate with both the name of the child and parent listed, or court order establishing guardianship. All requests must be made in person by completing the Leach Library Request of Minor Records Form.

January is National Radon Action Month!

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. It has no smell, color or taste. Radon can enter homes through cracks in the foundation, or for those with private wells, through water in sinks, washing machines, showers, and toilets. Indoor radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.


The only way to know if you have radon in your home is to test for it. If you have high levels of radon in your home, the good news is that you can fix it! Order your FREE test kit here: https://dhhs.nh.gov/radon


The Leach Library also will soon have a handheld continuous radon monitor available to check out from our Library of Things collection!

Open Town Elected Positions for the March 2026 Election

Notice of open elected positions in the Town of Londonderry for the election on Tuesday, March 10, 2026


Town Council2 PositionsThree (3) year
Budget Committee

3 Positions

1 Position

Three (3) year

One (1) year

Supervisor of the Checklist1 PositionSix (6) year
Leach Library Trustees2 PositionsThree (3) year
Trustee of the Trust Funds1 Position Three (3) year
Cemetery Trustee1 PositionThree (3) year


The filing period begins January 21, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. and ends on January 30, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. To sign up to run for any position, please visit the Town Clerk’s Office to file the necessary form during the filing period listed above. Any questions, please call the Town Clerk’s Office at 603-432-1100 x199.

Upcoming Library System Upgrade

The Leach Library and GMILCS catalog system will be unavailable due to a scheduled upgrade on Thursday, January 29. The library will be open, and staff will be available to assist patrons by phone or email at (603) 432-1132 or reference@londonderrynh.gov.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY NEWS

Celebrate Library Lovers' Month

During the month of February, stop by the Leach Library to fill out a paper heart and let us know what makes the library special to you! Return your completed heart to a staff member to be added to our display.


Everyone who completes a heart from Monday, February 2 to Saturday, February 7 will be entered to win two midweek lift tickets to Pats Peak! Please note that the tickets are valid Monday through Friday only, are not valid February 16–20, 2026, and expire at the end of the 2026 season. This free raffle is sponsored by the Friends of the Leach Library.

Halloween Costume Recycling Event

Donate your gently worn Halloween costumes and accessories to the front desk at the Leach Library. The Friends of the Leach Library will upcycle the costumes into a free costume shop for the community in September 2026. By participating, you will not only contribute to environmental conservation but also provide a helping hand to our local community to ensure a fantastic Halloween next year. All sizes are welcome.

IMPORTANT DATES

Upcoming Closing

The library will be closed on:
January 19 | Martin Luther King, Jr. Civil Rights Day


Library Friends and Trustees Meetings

All are welcome to attend!

Friends Meeting | 2/2 @ 12pm

Trustees Meeting | 2/4 @ 7pm

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR ADULTS

Time for some delicious food!

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Cookbook Potluck: Gluten Free!

Friday, January 23

11:00 - 12:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 


Registration for this event is full. Please join the waitlist to get a seat in the event of cancellations.

Love to cook and bake? Then this is the perfect program for you! Prepare and share a recipe from one of three gluten-free cookbooks. Copies of the books are available to check out from the library. Please make enough for 20.

SIGN UP HERE

Join us for a literary discussion!

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Afternoon Book Discussion

Wednesday, January 28

2:00 - 3:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 


Registration for this event is full. Please join the waitlist to get a seat in the event of cancellations.

Join staff at the library as we discuss “Whale Fall” by Elizabeth O'Connor. Refreshments will be served. You can pick up a copy of the book from the library.

SIGN UP HERE

The book that started it all!

Biography Book Discussion

Friday, January 30

11:00 - 12:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 


Registration for this event is full. Please join the waitlist to get a seat in the event of cancellations.

Join staff at the library as we discuss “All Creatures Great and Small” by James Herriot. Refreshments will be served. You can pick up a copy of the book from the library. 

SIGN UP HERE

A craft to decorate your home!

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Adult Craft: Mitten Wall Hanging

Thursday, January 29

6:00 - 7:30 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Adults are invited to make their own adorable mitten wall hangings! Due to limited space and supplies, this program is only available to Leach Library card holders.

SIGN UP HERE

Tech problems? We can help!

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Drop-In Tech Help

Thursdays

10:00 - 12:00 P.M.

Reference Desk

The reference staff will provide one-on-one assistance tailored to your technology-related needs. Whether it's Libby, Hoopla, or using your Kindle, we have you covered!

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED

FEBRUARY PROGRAMS

(with January registration) 

Are you feeling lucky? 

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Book BINGO for Adults

Monday, February 2

2:00 - 3:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Adults are invited to play Bingo and win free books from the Leach Library book sale! 

SIGN UP HERE

Book discussion time!

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Afternoon Book Discussion

Wednesday, February 18

2:00 - 3:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Join staff at the library as we discuss “Betty” by Tiffany McDaniel. Refreshments will be served. You can pick up a copy of the book from the library.

SIGN UP HERE

Spread the joy!

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Cookbook Potluck:

Dips, Spreads, and Salsas!

Thursday, February 19

6:30 - 7:30 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Love to cook and bake? Then this is the perfect program for you! Prepare and share a recipe from one of four cookbooks. Copies of the books are available to check out from the library. Please make enough for 20.


This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Leach Library.

SIGN UP HERE

A book to give you all the feels!

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Romance Book Discussion

Thursday, February 26

6:30 - 7:30 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Love is in the air! Join staff at the library as we discuss “Promise Me Sunshine” by Cara Bastone. Refreshments will be served. You can pick up a copy of the book from the library.

SIGN UP HERE

FEATURED RESOURCES

Job Searching? Use AtoZ!

How to do a job search

Are you currently on the hunt for a new job? Let your library card help! It gives you access to the AtoZ databases job searching feature. Click on the video to learn more and then click here to get started!

Time to play a board game!

Winter is the perfect time to put on your coziest pajamas, grab some snacks, get your friends and family together, and play board games! Luckily, the library has a wide selection to choose from in our Library of Things collection. Click here to start browsing. Your adventure begins today!

JANUARY'S FICTION DISPLAY IS:

Time Travel!

JANUARY'S NONFICTION DISPLAY IS:

Need Help with the New Tech You Got for Christmas?

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR TEENS

Leach Library Expands Maker Lab Programming for Teens and Tweens

The Leach Library is pleased to announce the launch of Art Studio and Craft with Kelli, new creative offerings within the library’s expanding Maker Lab program. Maker Lab encompasses a variety of hands-on learning opportunities designed to support curiosity, skill-building, and exploration.


Art Studio and Craft with Kelli focus on giving teens and tweens a dedicated space to develop their artistic talents and creativity. Additionally, Coding Club continues to offer teens and tweens the opportunity to experiment with various platforms and programming styles.


These Maker Lab programs highlight the library’s commitment to providing engaging, accessible, and enriching learning experiences for young community members. No prior experience is needed for any of the activities, just curiosity and creativity.


For more information about Maker Lab programs, please contact Leach Library at 603-432-1132 or email Megan Donovan at mdonovan@londonderrynh.gov.

The adventure begins! 🐉

Planting Small Succulent Pots

D&D: Dragoneers Club

Monday, January 12

3:00 - 4:30 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Step into a world of magic, monsters, and adventure and join the Dragoneers Club for a standalone quest! Adventurers are encouraged to bring their own ready-made character sheets to jump straight into the action If you're new to the game or don’t have a character ready, have no fear, pre-made characters will be on hand for you to start your journey.

SIGN UP HERE

Unleash your creativity! 🎨

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Maker Lab: Art Studio

Wednesday, January 14

6:00 - 7:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Each one-hour Art Studio session invites participants to engage in pencil drawing and sketching through either a guided activity or open studio time for independent projects. This week's challenge is to start your own comic book! All materials are provided, including high-quality sketching pencils, paper, colored pencils, and additional drawing tools. 

SIGN UP HERE

Time to craft! ✨

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Maker Lab: Craft With Kelli

Tuesday, January 20

6:00 - 7:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Each one-hour Craft with Kelli program features a new hands-on project, ranging from painting ceramics to creating jewelry and exploring additional creative mediums. This week's craft is making a winter themed charm bracelet!

SIGN UP HERE

Relax and recharge! 😌

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Teen Power Hour

January 20 - January 23

2:00 - 3:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Stop by the Leach Library Meeting Room for a focused study session and a quick recharge. We’ve got all the good stuff to get you through your semester end assignments: snacks, stress balls, study supplies, and even an indoor basketball break when you need it. This program is intended for ages 13-18.

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED

More art, more fun! 🎨

Planting Small Succulent Pots

Maker Lab: Art Studio

Wednesday, January 28

6:00 - 7:00 P.M.
Meeting Room 

Each one-hour Art Studio session invites participants to engage in pencil drawing and sketching through either a guided activity or open studio time for independent projects. This week's challenge is to draw a city street! All materials are provided, including high-quality sketching pencils, paper, colored pencils, and additional drawing tools. 

SIGN UP HERE

STAFF PETS & PICKS😺

January's staff member is Donna! 

Name: Winnie

Age: 9

Sign: Cancer

Likes: Meals served promptly, sunbathing, running and yelling with a pom-pom in her mouth, headbutts, laser toy play sessions, being in the middle of all the action/chaos, drinking from Mom's water glass, couch naps

Dislikes: Late mealtimes, closed doors, and being removed from the action

Donna's Picks: 

SAVE THE DATE 

All dates and times are subject to change.

*Registration is required and opens one week in advance.

Thursdays at 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.

Drop-In Tech Help

Monday, February 2 at 12:00 p.m.

Friends of the Library Meeting

Tuesday, February 3 at 3:00 p.m.

Maker Lab: Coding* 

Wednesday, February 4 at 7:00 p.m.

Board of Trustees Meeting

Wednesday, February 11 at 6:00 p.m.

Maker Lab: Art*

Saturday, February 14 at 2:00 p.m.

Adult Craft: Faux Stained Glass*

Monday, February 16 (ALL DAY)

Library Closed

Tuesday, February 17 at 6:00 p.m.

Maker Lab: Crafts*

Saturday, February 21 at 2:00 p.m.

Introduction to Genetics and Genetic Testing with Erica Stelmach*

Tuesday, February 24 at 1:00 p.m.

Dungeons & Dragons Mega Dungeon*

Wednesday, February 25 at 12:00 p.m.

Glow Golf for Teens*

Wednesday, February 25 at 6:00 p.m.

Glow Golf for Teens*

Thursday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m.

What's in Your Drinking Water?
with Mindi Messmer*

Sponsored by the Friends of the Library

Leach Library
276 Mammoth Road, Londonderry, New Hampshire 03053
(603) 432-1132

www.londonderrynh.gov/leach-library