History and Mission

Mission

The New Mexico State Library is committed to providing leadership that promotes effective library services and access to information to all citizens of New Mexico. The State Library provides services that support public libraries as well as delivers direct library services to rural populations, state agencies, the visually impaired and physically disabled, and students and citizens conducting research.

History

Established by the State Legislature in 1929, the New Mexico State Library has a unique leadership role among the state's various libraries: public, school, tribal, academic, and special. Using state and federal financial aid, library consulting services, technical and informational support, training, and professional development, the State Library encourages local library service. It also extends direct service to those portions of the state’s population that require special assistance, such as library service to those without access to public libraries and the visually and physically impaired. The State Library holds state and federal documents with information about government and government programs, Southwest resources, and collections of materials of special interest to other libraries, state agencies, and the general public.