One question library staff frequently encounter is, "Can you recommend a book for me?" And the answer is, of course!  Recommending titles is something we love to do! Read on to learn more about library resources that can help you find new titles and authors to explore.

In 1949 the Mental Health America organization designated May as Mental Health Awareness Month to bring attention to mental health issues. Mental health is defined as “our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act as we cope with life. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.” (Medline Plus).

In 2020, 21% of the United States population ages 18 and older, around 52.9 million adults, and 16.4% of youth ages 6-17, experienced a mental health disorder (SAMHSA, October 2021). 5.6% of adults experienced a serious mental illness. The library offers informative resources on the subjects of health and wellness, and is offering educational programs in May to support Mental Health Awareness Month.  If you or a loved one needs support or treatment for a mental health condition, or if you or someone you love is in crisis, the experts at Henrico Mental Health and Developmental Services can help.

Read on to learn more about what’s available at the Library.

In 2021, the U.S. State Department officially recognized and designated April as Arab-American Heritage Month. Browse our collection to learn more about the culture, history and contributions of the Arab world. We’ve included some kid, teen and adult recommendations below to get you started!

Discover the Eastern Shore! In the spirit of Summer Reading, we’re exploring all things ocean. What better place to start than Virginia’s coast? Read on to learn more about upcoming programs and titles that explore the region’s unique landscape and history.

This summer, Henrico’s own nationally renowned, bestselling, and Newbery Award-winning author, Meg Medina, will be leading a series of book discussions for tweens!  Called Open Book, this special book club will allow rising 4th-7th graders to discuss books and writing with Meg Medina and their peers at HCPL locations county-wide! Read on to learn more about this exciting opportunity.

We are excited to announce our 2022 Summer Reading Challenge: Oceans of Possibilities! In this year’s challenge, readers of all ages can explore the library’s collection, attend programs, submit written reviews, and participate in other activities to earn badges and prizes. Read on to learn more about how to participate.

Step away from the screen, go beyond your stairs, and explore the great outdoors! Studies show there are several benefits to being outside. According to the National Library of Medicine, “Proximity to greenspace has been associated with lower levels of stress and reduced symptomology for depression and anxiety, while interacting with nature can improve cognition for children with attention deficits and individuals with depression.” Other advantages include reduced fatigue, greater self-awareness, increased creativity and more. Warmer weather is here, so whether you enjoy biking, camping, or just feeling the grass between your toes, be sure to celebrate National Great Outdoors Month! Read on for book recommendations, ideas, and library resources. 

What do bats, wasps, bees, ants, butterflies, and moths have in common? These creatures are all pollinators! Pollinators help carry pollen from flower to flower.  Without pollinators, we wouldn't have as many colorful flowers and essential crops. We can help them do their important job in many ways, like growing native plants and avoiding pesticides – plus, you can start by learning about them!

June is LGBTQIA+ Pride Month! What originally began as a day to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Uprising (Gay Pride Day) has since evolved into an official month-long celebration that recognizes the impact lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (questioning), intersex and asexual identifying people have had on history (Library of Congress). We are marking the occasion with a list of titles that celebrate authors and characters belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community. Read on for recommended books for children, tweens, teens and adults!