BY JENN McDOWELL

The new librarian at the Allenstown Public Library is trying to modernize the library without losing its historical and traditional charm.

Cathy Vincevic, the head librarian since July 1, is working on making the library completely wireless.

In fact, the library will be closed briefly to get new software up and running which will provide a new and improved cataloguing system as well as wireless access.

She plans to purchase laptop computers for the library for residents to use.

“There’s a lot of excitement about going wireless,” she said.

A former employee for New Hampshire Reads, a program developed to promote literacy and encourage reading in youngsters, Vincevic said she wants to introduce community programs into the library as well.

“I love reading to kids and creating projects. Right now, the problem is that there is no programming going on. It’s a blank slate for that,” she said.

Some of the programming she has in mind, after the initial software changes go through, include a toddler story time, book club and a “friends of the library” committee.

Vincevic also said an application to put the library on the state’s list of historical buildings is in the works.

Contracts to begin construction on the building were signed in 1934, Vincevic said. “It’s such a beautiful building,” she added.

The library has never been renovated and retains all of its original decor inside, right down to the tables and desks, something that Vincevic is interested in maintaining as part of the library’s charm.

She also wants to reintroduce a classics section in the library and revamp the basement, which currently contains the overflow of books.

The developed basement would include older and antique volumes as well as rooms for community purposes.

“I want to try and have this library be the best it can be for the town,” Vincevic said.

She added that there are currently a lot of regulars to the library, but that it is not being utilized to its full potential.

“There needs to be a lot more outreach to the community,” she said.

The library’s open hours can be found on the Allenstown Web site, www.allenstown.org, under the “Public Library” link. It is closed on Wednesdays.

The library and new software will soon be up and running on full electronic throttle.

“Please be patient because we’re really coming a long way,” Vincevic would like to say to Allenstown residents.