Last but not least, here are our favorite books for adults! There is something for everyone, from romance to high fantasy to history. What was your favorite book this year?
2020 Staff Picks for Teens
There were some absolutely fabulous teen titles published this year, including wonderfully thought-provoking nonfiction, fantastical adventures, and stunning LGBTQIA+ stories. Here are our favorites!
2020 Staff Picks for Kids
It is December and that means it is time for us to share our favorite books from 2020. We are starting with our favorite books for kids (and those young at heart!). Be sure to keep an eye out for our favorites for teens and adults later this week.
Disability in Children’s Literature
Books are powerful vessels for allowing children to see themselves reflected in stories. When they read about a character like them, they can be empowered and gain a sense of belonging and familiarity. Reading books that feature disabled characters can help children with disabilities see themselves represented in literature and validate their experiences. These books also inform and educate children without disabilities about the experiences of others, building empathy and understanding. In the end, reading books that feature characters with disabilities is positive for all children. Read on for some recommended titles from our librarians.
Sensory Storytime
Sensory Storytime engages children through movement, music, stories, sensory activities, and play.
The Basics at HCPL
Helping Henrico families develop strong foundational literacy habits is something we are very passionate about at Henrico County Public Library. RVA Basics is an early learning campaign being widely embraced in the region that focuses on five essential aspects of a child’s development.
DIY Kids Songs
Sharing music and singing together are great ways to connect, educate, and have fun with the children in your life. HCPL librarians have some tips for ways you and your little ones can get creative and learn together through music.
Read Aloud Like a Librarian
Reading to young children as early as possible can help strengthen the bond between parent and child, increase vocabulary, and teach kids about the wider world. HCPL offers storytimes for all ages, from birth to preschool, and we wanted to share tips caregivers can use to read like a librarian.
Introducing Storyline!
We are debuting a new, on-demand storytime service called Storyline this month. Storyline offers recorded stories over the phone, and is geared toward preschool and early elementary children and their families. For people looking for an opportunity to share stories offline, the library will offer newly recorded stories each week.