Labor Day has come and gone, summer is slipping away, and we are on the verge of a new season. As we transition into fall, we find ourselves reflecting on new beginnings and the feelings of excitement and nervousness that often come along with change. Thankfully, our recent PR intern, Shishira, left us with some words of wisdom and a list of books to help us navigate what lies ahead. Read on for more. 

In the spirit of this year's All Henrico Reads theme, “Conservation, Connection, and Compassion: Wellness and the Natural World,” we are considering our connection to the world and ways we can preserve its health for future generations.

The Library is continuing to implement more sustainable building designs and currently has five LEED certified locations. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally recognized system that certifies buildings as green or sustainable. Buildings that meet LEED requirements save money and water, use fewer building materials, and consume less energy—all great things for us and the future of the planet! Read on to learn more about how the library is working to reduce its impact and for recommended reads about how you can do the same.

And last but not least, we're sharing our favorite Adult picks! With unique titles that span across several different genres, it's our hope that this list offers a little something for everyone. Click through the links below to learn more about each title.

Our Summer Reading theme, “Color Our World,” goes hand-in-hand with the abundance of art books in HCPL’s juvenile collection. At the library, your child can delve into the lives and imaginations of artists throughout history, from Audubon to Zurbaran. What’s more, many kids’ art books are filled with illustrations inspired by the artists themselves. And if your child is eager to create their own art, take a look at our books on art technique. Read on for a handful of highlights and how to regularly receive picture book recommendations.

Gardening can take many forms. From pots on a windowsill to a backyard homestead, planting a garden can bring enjoyment and relaxation. It can also bring a wealth of benefits to our environment and the many inhabitants living there. Read on to discover some resources that can support you on your gardening journey, whether you’re just starting out, or a seasoned gardener searching for new insights.

This week marks the Week of the Young Child (April 1-7), an annual event sponsored by the National Association for Young Children that celebrates early learning, children, their teachers, and families. HCPL is here to support your family and community in early learning. Read on to find out more about resources that support our littlest library users!

K-Pop, which is short for Korean Pop, is a music genre that originated in South Korea. It encompasses musical styles like pop, hip hop, electronic, and more. The infectious melodies, combined with intricate choreography and larger-than-life style, create a stunning world of entertainment that is hard to ignore.

Whether you’re new to the craze or already a fanatic, the library’s collection offers plenty of resources about K-Pop. Read on for books and music to help you learn more about why K-Pop is so popular, who the major players are, and what styles are trending.  

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.

Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 as a way to advocate for the millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. Every May and beyond, organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) work to educate the public, extend support, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. With one in five adults experiencing mental illness each year [NAMI], HCPL recognizes the importance mental health plays in our overall wellness. Read on to learn more about library resources that can help you find the information you need.