Occasionally inclement weather means that the University of New Hampshire curtails operations for all or part of a day. Because library access is recognized as an important part of student life on a primarily residential campus, the Library Dean’s Office has the authority to make a judgement that strikes a balance between safety and resident students’ need for library services during such weather events. Thus, when possible, the Library will open and provide limited services including quiet places for academic study, collaborative workspace and access to physical library materials. Many factors influence this decision, including weather, anticipated building usage, and availability of local staff. Please also note that extensive library resources are available remotely. The following outlines the University Library’s response to university curtailment due to weather.
Updates to our hours of operation during a weather-related event will be communicated via an alert banner on our hours page.
University Delayed Openings During the Fall & Spring Semesters
If the University announces a delayed opening, Dimond Library and the branch libraries follow the university curtailment and open at the time the University opens.
Full Day University Curtailments During the Fall & Spring Semesters
If the university announces a full day curtailment during the academic semester, Dimond Library will make every effort to be open per a predictable pattern (generally 11 a.m.–7 p.m. or 2 p.m.–10 p.m. depending on the timing and intensity of the storm). Branch libraries follow university curtailment except during reading days and final exam periods when coverage will be contingent on staffing availability. If a state of emergency is declared, all libraries will be closed.
University Early Closings During the Fall & Spring Semesters
If the University announces an early closure during the Fall or Spring semesters Dimond Library may stay open, with hours determined by storm predictions and staffing availability. Branch libraries will follow university curtailment except during reading days and final exam periods when coverage will be contingent on staffing availability.
Weekend/Evening Weather Events During the Fall & Spring Semesters
Curtailments at night or on weekends are rare. From time to time the Library has to make a decision about weather-related closings without an official university curtailment. Every effort is made to keep Dimond Library open regular hours, but hours may be adjusted on a case by case basis due to storm timing and/or intensity and staffing availability.
Curtailment During Holidays, Interim Periods, J-Terms & Summer Sessions
Dimond Library and the Branch libraries follow University curtailment outside of the Fall and Spring semesters.
Reviewed November 2023
