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.

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.

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.

We are excited to announce that in 2025 our signature community reading program, All Henrico Reads, will feature James Beard Award-winning author Ruth Reichl and her bestselling book The Paris Novel. We invite the community to join us on Thursday, March 27 at 7 PM at the Henrico Sports and Events Center for an evening with Ruth Reichl, including an in-person discussion, Q&A, book sales from Book People, and a book signing. Read on to learn more about the event and how to take part in this year’s all-community read.

This Saturday marks the beginning of Black History Month and we are looking forward to kicking things off with a day full of events at Fairfield Library. Listen to Justin Golden perform the Piedmont Blues, test your knowledge of Henrico Black History by playing Bingo with Henrico Recreation and Parks, History Division, and enjoy a music and spoken word concert of African and African American folktales from Richmond's Elegba Society. Read on to learn more about upcoming Black History Month events including book discussions, film screenings, lectures, performances, and more, as well as titles from our collection that center around Black history.

As you hit the reset button and start thinking about the year to come, remember the library is here to support you in reaching your 2025 goals. Whether your hopes are related to your career, academics, wellness, finances, personal hobbies, or reading, HCPL has a number of resources that can help you. Read on for a list of databases, programs, and titles available to you, for free, with a library card. Moreover, don’t forget our staff are also here to support you! Call, visit, or text us (571- 536-7695), and we will work to point you in the right direction.  

It’s that time of year again when all we want is to stay inside and curl up with a good book. This season, we’re leveling up our cozy with equally cozy mysteries from the library. Cozy mysteries are typically lighthearted, include a quirky cast of characters, feature an amateur sleuth, and leave out the disturbing details that make you want to sleep with the lights on. Best of all, they come in several sub-genres, making it easier to find the right mystery for you. Whether you’re a classic “whodunit” enthusiast (think Agatha Christie), an animal lover, a culinary connoisseur, a history buff, hobbies nerd, or home renovation obsessed, there are plenty of mysteries out there to keep you cozy this winter.

Whether it's stargazing, bird watching, exploring the outdoors, connecting with loved ones, or discovering new books, the library has several curated kits to help kick start activities with friends and family. Read on to learn more about our kits as well as other resources to enjoy with loved ones over the holiday break.