Our Collections

Our collections are entirely supported by endowed funds.  The library holds more than 100,000 physical books, organized by the Dewey Decimal system, located on 4 user-accessible levels of stack shelving.  In addition, the collection includes more than 47,000 full-text electronic books, and hundreds of films and downloadable audio titles.   The collection is particularly strong in history and social sciences, English literature, science, and the arts.  The OWHL  also collects fiction and non-fiction in support of recreational reading.  We actively collect books by Andover and Abbot Academy authors.  In addition to our physical collection, because of our membership in NOBLE, (the North Of Boston Library Exchange) our users may borrow materials (more than two million items) from any of the member libraries.  Requested books, DVDs, CDs, and other items will be delivered to the OWHL within a few days.