It has been said that everyone has one novel in them.  National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo, has been helping that notion become a reality since 1999. It is a simple challenge put forth for any and all to participate: write a 50,000 word novel in 30 days. Every November, NaNoWriMo gives aspiring authors the opportunity to find that novel within themselves by providing structure, community, and encouragement to reach their creative goals. It’s an inspiring and positive month for writers of all ages. Whether you are penning the next gripping bestseller, or crafting a literary opus, November is a great motivational opportunity!

Although many believe that the Emancipation Proclamation issued by Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, freed all enslaved people in the South, the dream of freedom did not become a reality for people enslaved in Texas until two years later. General Gordon Granger led his Union troops to Galveston on June 19, 1865, and delivered General Order No. 3, declaring the end of the institution of slavery. Juneteenth commemorates this historic event. In 2021, Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday, and is now recognized in 47 states. The day is often celebrated by large gatherings with food, music, parades and more. Read on to find resources about Juneteenth at the Library!

We’re gearing up and getting excited for this weekend's Familia Fiesta celebration and other Hispanic Heritage Month events, but the celebration doesn’t end there. You can continue to explore Hispanic voices, history, and culture beyond this month through titles available in our collection. The library also offers regular programs and resources throughout the year to support the Spanish-speaking community and those interested in learning Spanish. Read on to learn more!

Fall is officially here, and with darker nights and brisker air upon us, it’s no wonder that many of us seek something equally chilling to read or watch. This season, look no further than the library for all of your spooky needs. From slightly spooky to nightmare-worthy, find the perfect, frightening fit for everyone in the family.

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the stories, contributions, and impact of the LGBTQIA+ community. Along with Henrico County’s recognition of Pride Month, we have some fresh reads that highlight LGBTQIA+ voices, as well as some classics to rediscover or enjoy for the first time. We hope these lists provide you with plenty of rainbow reads for your TBR (to-be-read) list. Happy Pride!

Established as a shire in 1634, Henrico was the second settlement in the colony of Virginia and is one of the oldest counties in the country (Henrico History). With a rich history that spans over 400 years, Henrico is home to numerous historic sites, landmarks, and museums. Today, the History division of the Department of Recreation and Parks researches, interprets, and develops programs to educate the public on the County’s history. You can learn more about their findings and work in our new Historically Speaking program series. Read on to learn more about these upcoming events!

This May and beyond, discover the history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans by browsing titles in our collection. Read on for kid, teen, and adult titles that celebrate stories by and about Jewish voices.    

School is out, it’s officially summer, and we are gearing up for the launch of our 2025 Summer Reading Challenge. This year’s theme —“Color Our World”— is a celebration of the many ways both art and reading can connect us to one another and enrich our lives. Starting June 1, we invite you to join us for a summer full of reading, art, and creativity. Read on to learn more about this year’s challenge and upcoming events!

Happy National Cookbook Month! As the weather begins to cool off, we look forward to cozying up indoors and cooking with family and friends. And while many of us now turn to our phones and social media for recipes, why not skip the ads and flip through an old-school cookbook instead? Our collection includes cookbooks for everyone in the family. Read on for a selection of kid, teen, and adult titles as well as delicious programs coming up this fall.