A novel in verse can be free-form, a specific style of poetry, or have poetic structures and devices embedded within. Because of the format, novels in verse can often feel more approachable than traditional prose, using emotion and form to further appeal to the reader. Novels in verse can encompass any genre, and often present a different style of creative expression than is typically found in books. You just might feel inspired to create your own verse too. Happy reading!

Escape the late summer doldrums by reading some great books in translation. Reading books originally written in other languages can provide insight to experiences that were previously unavailable to English speaking readers. Explore the wide world of literature with these excellent translated works.

August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reminds everyone to schedule a routine eye exam to have your children fitted with the correct prescription or protection, depending on their needs. Although starting to wear glasses is disconcerting to some children, remember that many of our favorite book characters wear glasses!

There are less than two weeks left for our Summer Reading program, the One Henrico Reading Challenge. If you haven’t already signed up, it isn’t too late! Simply visit henricolibrary.org/summerreading and get started on a bunch of reading fun. If you’ve already completed your reading challenge, prize books are currently available in limited quantities at our Fairfield, Libbie Mill, Tuckahoe, Twin Hickory, and Varina libraries.

Movies and soundtracks are like two peas in a pod, but we’d argue that books and music make a great pair too! What better way to amplify the environment, characters and mood of a story than listening to music while reading? Below you’ll find our picks for YA book and music pairings.

As a genre, fantasy has a little something for everyone… urban fantasy for a grittier experience, high fantasy for purists, portal fantasy for the adventurous, and more. In times of stress, fantasy can capture your attention, allowing you to escape into the story. From sentient cities to time traveling romance to magically enhanced Kung Fu, the titles below are a diverse offering of delights for adult readers.

Rock & Roll evolved as a genre in the United States between the late 1940s and 50s. The genre blended rhythm and blues, boogie woogie, and gospel, among other musical styles. Some of the best rock albums were released in the 1970s when new engineering techniques and recording studios became ubiquitous, and some of the greatest rock and rock-related albums of that decade are available on Hoopla to stream with your library card! This is a list of ten incredible albums that integrate elements of rock music throughout their wax.

Children begin to understand the concept of money early in age. They are showered with clothes, toys, and money from birth. How did all this stuff even get here? A trip to the store is the perfect time to introduce the idea of money, that things cost a certain amount, and that you have to pay for the things you want. Here are some books to help.

Makerspaces have popped up all over the world in libraries, museums, and on school campuses. Why not have a Makerspace in your own living space? Makerspaces can fuel innovation, critical thinking skills, and problem solving for teens. Depending on the space you have available at home, you can create a pop-up, temporary makerspace, or a dedicated area. What’s most important is having an environment to be creative.