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.

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, which raises awareness about people living with a developmental disability such as Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and other developmental disabilities. According to the Center for Disease Control, 1 in 6 children have one or more developmental disability.

HCPL has programs and resources throughout the year for people with developmental disabilities and their caregivers. There are also many related items in our collections. Read on to learn more. 

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.

We couldn’t let this year come to a close without sharing our 2024 Staff Picks. Find new reads for your TBR (to-be-read) pile or to gift to someone special this holiday season. From feel-good romances to out-of-this-world science fiction, staff read across a wide range of genres and interests. We hope this list provides a little something for everyone as you start setting reading goals for the New Year.

Be sure to also check out our Staff Picks lists for Teens and Kids to find fresh reads for the younger readers in your life. And if you’re looking for more recommendations in 2025, subscribe to one of our genre-specific newsletters, browse thousands of read-alikes and mood-inspired recommendations on Novelist, or try our My Next Read service to receive a custom list of titles from one of our librarians.

Happy Library Card Sign-Up Month, a time to promote the perks of using the library. Stop by your nearest location to learn more about signing up and unlocking a world of resources. And if you already have a card, we’re offering replacements all month long. So if your card is looking well-loved, come pick up a fresh one, for free. For those who still aren’t convinced, read on for our top ten reasons to sign up for a library card today.

We’re excited to announce that patrons can now opt to receive SMS/text reminders from the library about their holds and due dates! To enjoy this feature, sign up in person at the library. Read on to learn more.

Did you know that our Area Libraries offer a variety of computer and digital media classes that are completely free to library cardholders? Whether you need the basics or want to learn more advanced skills and software, we have resources to support you in your personal and professional development. Read on to learn more about our offerings. 

Have you been wanting to trace your family’s history? Getting started can be a daunting process, and with the recent release of 1950s census data, there is more information to uncover than ever! But did you know that your library card gives you free access to genealogy resources? From databases, to books, to helpful guides, there are numerous tools to make the process more approachable.