As we continue to highlight our staff as living resources, we thought we’d shine the spotlight on the performers in our midst.  While librarians are stereotyped as being quiet and introverted, it turns out that many of us are far from shy!  Read on to learn about our talented staff members with backgrounds in the performing arts.

It is HCPL’s goal to create an environment where everyone feels welcome to connect, learn, and grow. We recognize that the needs of our community are diverse, and aim to provide opportunities for all library users to learn and socialize. Our staff work to design and offer program series that are welcoming for patrons, both young and old, with varying developmental and intellectual needs. Read on to learn about our available programs, resources, and titles from the collection!

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.

The library will host a full line-up of programs for Black History Month. Whether you watch a performance, attend a lecture, view a film, or participate in a book discussion, we hope you will visit the library over the coming weeks to learn with us about Black history and culture! Read on for a full list of upcoming events and recommended reads from our collection.

We are thrilled to announce that All Henrico Reads, our signature author event, will feature author Cheryl Strayed, who will discuss her bestselling memoir Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail! We invite the community to join us on Thursday, March 28 at 7PM at Henrico’s new Sports and Events Center for an in-person discussion, Q&A with the author, book sales from Book People, and a book signing. Read on to learn more about the event and how to take part in this year’s all-community read!

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!