HCPL Tour Series # 4: Gayton

The Gayton Branch Library became Henrico’s westernmost location when it opened its doors on November 30, 1988. In 2005, Henrico voters approved a bond referendum which included a comprehensive interior renovation of the library. In June of 2012, a newly renovated Gayton reopened with quite the memorable celebration: it was the same day a Derecho storm front caused widespread power outages throughout the area – including at the library! Since reopening, Gayton has remained a busy neighborhood library with a loyal community of patrons. Read on to learn more about why we love Gayton!

Gayton includes a buzzing children’s section with a popular play area, a separate teen space equipped with a video gaming area, and a light-filled adult space with cozy seating for reading. A meeting room is also available to groups who need to reserve a larger space.

From storytimes for children, to anime and gaming for teens, to book discussions, information programs, and crafts for adults, Gayton offers a variety of activities for everyone in the family. Visit the library’s online calendar to find upcoming programs happening at our location!

Below are some additional highlights about Gayton:

• Gayton is one of four Branch Library locations at HCPL, and it’s one of the busiest!

• Gayton was the 2^nd county library to be LEED certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), attaining a Silver Certification from the United States Green Buildings Council.

• One of Gayton’s unique features is its Quiet Room. Prior to renovating, this area was referred to as the greenhouse/atrium area, and it was a popular spot to sit, read, ponder, and enjoy the sun. The area was integrated into the renovation and was enclosed to become a dedicated Quiet Room. With its large windows and natural light, the Quiet Room is a great place to read and study and still feel connected to the outdoors.

• A small garden was installed outside of the children’s area by the Crown Grant Garden Club for the library’s reopening in 2012. The garden bed was planted with a Japanese maple, hellebores, hostas, roses, hydrangeas, Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick, butterfly bush, and ferns, as well as a moving sculpture and gazing ball to add interest to the garden.

• Gayton is also a polling precinct, so we are extra busy on election days!

What makes our library special? It is definitely our customers and staff!  Here is what they have to say about Gayton:

From Staff:

• Kate, the manager has been at the Gayton Library since May 2018 (5 years). She loves that the Gayton community, from kids to seniors, appreciates and is passionate about reading.

• Drew, the Adult Services Librarian says:

“Gayton has a great community that loves attending programs and meeting up with friends at the library. Our book discussion groups feature a mix of new attendees and folks who have been discussing books at our library for a decade or more. Many of our customers take the time to stop by the desk and say hello when they are picking up their books. They also catch up and connect with other people in the neighborhood before and after events that are held at the library. The enthusiasm that they show for our programs and our work makes Gayton feel like the place to be!”

From Customers:

• “My favorite thing about the Gayton Library is that every book I want to read I can find here.”

• “Our Family greatly appreciates the gift of your service to our community. Thank you for helping plant the seed for little ones to grow into big readers.”

• “I couldn’t be more grateful for our library! It’s the place I feel safest and its thanks to the wonderfully kind and helpful staff. The library feels like my second home.”

• “I am retired so enjoy visiting the Gayton Library often. I have always been an avid reader and am impressed by the new book section. Thank you to all the staff for making this library so inviting and pleasing.”

• “The Gayton Library: it’s small, quiet, and near my home. The staff is friendly and helpful.”

• “To Librarians – everywhere and all – but most especially to you all, Gayton Librarians (I consider your Gayton Library my “library home”) – THANK YOU ALL. THANK YOU ALL (I could not write that enough nor say it enough).”

Whether you’re looking for the latest books to read, activities for your family, or a meeting space for your organization, come visit your friendly neighborhood library. We look forward to seeing you!