Gilmanton Iron Works Library Association

Who We Are

Our primary mission is to provide free public library services to the community and to maintain the library building.  

The Gilmanton Iron Works Library began as the Gilmanton Public Library in 1896. The commercial building where the library was located was destroyed in the fire of 1915, but thankfully, many of the books were saved. Later in 1915 the Gilmanton Iron Works Library Association was incorporated, with the purpose of constructing and maintaining a separate building for the public library. With the help of many volunteers, the building was finished and the library opened to the public on August 11, 1917.

The Gilmanton Iron Works Library was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989 under the category of architecture. It is described as “an attractive small library building, notable for its pleasing design and simple but effective ornament, and as the first public library building in Belknap County to use the Colonial Revival style.

This 110 year old building is in need of both cosmetic and structural rehabilitation. In late 2025 we received an LCHIP grant to assist with this work. In addition, we received a Sustainable & Resilient New England Libraries grant from the Manton Foundation/Association of Rural and Small Libraries to help us ensure the library remains a community resource. 

We have worked with the NH Preservation Alliance to develop a building rehabilitation framework. The initial work will focus on moisture mitigation. Future work will include exterior repair of wood trim and painting, and interior plaster repair and painting. In addition, a heating/cooling system is planned - the library is currently unheated and is not insulated.

This is a big project for our small group of volunteers, and your support is greatly appreciated. If you would like to help with in-kind donations or in other ways, please stop by the library or contact us via our website giwlibrary.org.