All Awards

HCPL was recognized as a 5-Star Library by Library Journal for 2022. The Library Journal Index rates U.S. public libraries based on selected per capita output measures. The 2022 Index derives from data recently released by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) for FY20. This year, 5,359 U.S. public libraries qualified to be rated in the Index. In this edition, there are 258 Star Libraries, each receiving three-Star, four-Star, or five-Star designations.

Fairfield Area Library was recognized by the Richmond chapter of the American Institute of Architects. AIA Richmond’s design awards recognize outstanding design, both built and unbuilt. Consideration is given to aesthetics, social impact, innovation, context, performance, and stewardship of the natural environment.

HCPL received Four Stars from Library Journal's annual national Star Libraries review. The system is one of only ten library systems nationwide in its expenditure range to receive a four star ranking.

HCPL was recognized as a 5-Star Library by Library Journal for 2020. The Library Journal Index rates U.S. public libraries based on selected per capita output measures. The 2020 Index derives from data recently released by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) for FY18. This year, 5,608 U.S. public libraries qualified to be rated in the Index. In this edition, there are 262 Star Libraries, each receiving three-Star, four-Star, or five-Star designations.

Advanced Digital Literacy Skill Building

Awarded by the National Association of Counties

Henrico County Public Library (HCPL) sought to modernize its services and meet the needs of jobseekers with advanced digital literacy and skill-building classes in its Digital Media Labs. HCPL opened its first Digital Media Lab at the Libbie Mill Library in 2015 after piloting the concept at its Twin Hickory location. Library staff created curricula to develop digital literacy skills in applications like Adobe Creative Suite software, 3D modeling and printing, and coding while continuing to offer traditional computer classes like Microsoft Office and Internet Basics. The Varina Area Library opened in 2016 with a Digital Media Lab, and staff created applied concept classes like 3D printed crafting, video game programming, and other engaging subjects that offered an accessible entry point to learning digital skills for patrons of all ages. The new Fairfield Area Library opened in 2019 with a Digital Media Lab, and HCPL updated the Twin Hickory and Tuckahoe Area Libraries’ labs with comparable technology to the existing labs. Now all five Area Libraries, one in each magisterial district in Henrico County, provide free access to high-tech digital literacy education and digital content creation tools, removing barriers to developing digital skills.