Start the New Year with a new skill! This year, children seeking to challenge themselves and learn something new can check out Chess Time, a chess group for kids at the library. Among its many benefits, playing chess can help build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills, promote creativity, and is a great way to meet new friends. Most importantly, it’s fun! Read on to learn more about our children’s chess group and related titles in our collection. 

It’s that time of year again! We’re reflecting on our favorite reads from 2023, and are eager to share our picks with you. We hope you’ll find new titles to add to your nightstand or to wrap up as a gift this holiday season.

Be sure to also check out our Staff Picks lists for Teens and Kids to find new reads for the whole family. And if you’re looking for more recommended reads for 2024, try our My Next Read service to receive a custom list of recommendations from one of our librarians.

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season full of joy and reading!

Middle-school firsts, fish-shaped spaceships, cryptid-fueled murder mysteries, dystopian resorts. These are just some of what you’ll find in this year’s list of recommended reads for teens. With titles that span all genres, we hope there’s something for everyone!

Be sure to also check out our Staff Picks lists for Adults and Kids to find new reads for the whole family. And if you’re looking for more recommended reads for 2024, try our My Next Read service to receive a custom list of recommendations from one of our librarians!

Whether they’re just learning to read or diving into to chapter books and novels, this year’s Staff Picks list includes titles for all of your little ones, from infants to tweens!

Be sure to also check out our Staff Picks lists for Adults and Teens to find new reads for the whole family. And if you’re looking for more recommended reads for 2024, try our My Next Read service to receive a custom list of recommendations from one of our librarians!

While we love fall, it’s one season that always seems to pass us by. One minute we’re heading back to school, and the next we’re surrounded by holiday décor, music, and sales.  It’s that time of year when we suddenly find ourselves asking, “How is it November already?” If the thought of holiday shopping and to-do lists sends you into a tailspin, you’re not alone. This season, skip the crowds, stress, and spending, and head to the library! From cards and gifts, to décor and food, we’re offering several programs to help make it a handmade holiday. Read on to learn more about upcoming events and browse recommended DIY (do-it-yourself) titles from our collection.

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of the Native American community. The library is marking the occasion with a series of programs and book discussions and hope you'll join us. We also invite you to explore our collection of indigenous authors and stories. Read on for book recommendations and to learn more about upcoming events!

September is National Wilderness Month, a celebration of the anniversary of the Wilderness Act.  Passed on September 3, 1964, the Wilderness Act was created in order to “establish a National Wilderness Preservation System for the permanent good of the whole people.” When passed, the Act designated 54 areas made up of 9.1 million acres in 13 states as protected wilderness. Today that has grown to over 111 million acres (that’s slightly larger than the state of California!) in 806 areas in 44 states and Puerto Rico. This month — and all year! — take advantage of the benefits and beauty of the great outdoors by exploring wilderness areas near you. Read on to learn more about our greatest national treasure, the American Wilderness!

September 9-16 is James River Week, and the library is marking the occasion with programs to educate and celebrate one of our greatest community resources, the James River! Whether you enjoy hiking and biking its trails, spotting dozens of its native bird, fish, and plant species, swimming in its waters, or kayaking, canoeing, or rafting down its class II-IV rapids, join us as we learn more about Richmond’s beloved James River and how we can help protect its future.

Laughter is a wonderful way to bring people together, and scientific studies have shown that it can even help improve your overall health by improving circulation and reducing stress. Reading funny books is a great way to connect with your little one(s) and add a dose of laughter to your day. Read on for some recommended funny reads for kids from our collection to get laughing – it's good for you!