All Henrico Reads

In this year’s All Henrico Reads title, The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl, the impulsive purchase of a vintage Dior dress sparks a journey of self-discovery and adventure in Paris. For practical and predictable main character Stella, the dress encourages her to see herself in a new light and envision a life beyond anything she’d previously imagined. And while Dior may not be in the budget for most, fashion is much more than runway looks and expensive designer labels. It is how we present ourselves to the world; it is a vehicle for personal expression. Clothing has the power to boost our confidence and give us the courage to live deliciously. Hear more about Stella’s story and living deliciously from author Ruth Reichl, who will join us for an in-person conversation and book signing on Thursday, March 27 at 7PM at the Henrico Sports & Events Center!

March 1 marks the beginning of Women’s History Month, and the library is offering several programs to commemorate the occasion. Attend a book discussion or film, explore the work of female musicians, artists, and writers, and discover history makers from Virginia and beyond. Read on to learn more about all of our upcoming Women's History Month programs.

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, which raises awareness about people living with a developmental disability such as Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and other developmental disabilities. According to the Center for Disease Control, 1 in 6 children have one or more developmental disability. HCPL has programs and resources throughout the year for people with developmental disabilities and their caregivers. There are also many related items in our collections. Read on to learn more. 

For Ruth Reichl, food and words have always been linked. “Growing up in my family,” she explained, “You had to have a story at the dinner table. It’s where I learned to write.” Reichl’s early storytelling training has served her well. One of America’s top culinary voices, Reichl has earned distinctions ranging from the James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award to a recent cameo on The Simpsons. A New York Times bestselling author and former Gourmet magazine editor and restaurant critic for The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, Reichl has lived America’s food journey. At All Henrico Reads on March 27, 2025, you’re invited to be part of the experience as Reichl shares insights from her life and her latest book The Paris Novel.

Friendships play a vital role in our lives—especially when we are teenagers. Friends offer connection, adventure, and support. Whether you love meeting new people, prefer one-on-one connections, or feel more comfortable talking to people online, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to friendship. February 11 is “Make a Friend Day,” but we're celebrating all month long. Inspired by the popular early 2000s-style quizzes teens used to take in magazines with their friends, we've created a quiz of our own. Read on to discover your preferred friendship style, and explore personalized YA recommendations featuring stories about friendship!

We are feeling inspired by this year’s delicious All Henrico Reads title, The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl, and are eager to explore new cuisines, try fresh recipes, and embrace our inner gourmands. While the early definition of gourmand was synonymous with overconsumption, the term has since gained a more positive connotation, thanks to the French. Today, a gourmand is someone who simply appreciates good food and drink. So if the thought of buttery croissants, soft creamy brie, and simmering summer vegetables whet your appetite (or you’re interested in trying all of the above), we recommend reading on to learn more about the art of cooking French food.