Libby Museum Collection Found to be in Remarkably Good Condition Following First Visit

On July 23, 2026 members of the Libby Museum Preservation Society were granted access to the closed Libby Museum of Natural History by Town of Wolfeboro officials to conduct an initial assessment of the museum's collection.

The findings were overwhelmingly encouraging.

Following a thorough walkthrough, it is our assessment that the vast majority of Dr. Henry Forrest Libby's historic collection remains in remarkably good condition. Aside from a limited number of taxidermy specimens requiring minor conservation and repair, nearly the entire collection appears structurally sound and well preserved. Most exhibits simply require careful cleaning and dust removal after the museum's closure.

The Libby Museum Preservation Society believes that the collection is, generally speaking, in good condition. However, the items in the collection are threatened by the lack of environmental controls in the building.

Dr. Libby's collection remains an extraordinary educational and cultural resource with tremendous historic value. Its condition confirms that it is not only worthy of preservation but also fully capable of serving as the heart of a renewed Libby Museum that continues the mission Dr. Libby envisioned more than a century ago.

These findings strengthen our confidence that preserving this collection is both achievable and worthwhile. We remain committed to protecting this irreplaceable piece of New Hampshire's natural history and ensuring it continues to educate and inspire future generations in a new museum that honors Dr. Libby's original purpose and legacy.

The Libby Museum Preservation Society thanks the Town of Wolfeboro officials for providing access to the museum and looks forward to continuing to work toward a future in which this nationally significant collection remains accessible to the public for generations to come.