The North Of Boston Library Exchange (NOBLE) is a cooperative effort of 25 area libraries founded to improve library service through automation. Seventeen public libraries, seven academic libraries and one special library are members of NOBLE.
NOBLE was the first automated resource sharing network in Massachusetts, the first Massachusetts library network on the Internet and the first to offer online access to periodicals through EBSCO. Since its founding thirty years ago, NOBLE has cost-effectively improved service to its libraries and their users through technology, in ways not possible at its inception.
NOBLE is governed by its member libraries who approve the annual budget, establish NOBLE policies and elect officers. An Executive Board, comprised of the four officers and five at-large library directors, serves as our Board of Directors and more closely oversees NOBLE operations. A professional staff manages operations.
NOBLE is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profit corporation, and is recognized as a charitable organization by the Attorney General’s office. NOBLE is primarily funded through membership fees and receives significant support through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC). We welcome donations to improve our downloadable ebook and audiobook services and other services.
- Member Libraries — A map and list of member libraries with links to addresses, hours, etc.
- NOBLE Staff — Contact information and areas of responsibility
- NOBLE Directory — For library staff use only, this directory is distributed on paper to all libraries twice a year. Please let us know if there are any updates for your library