Although many believe that the Emancipation Proclamation issued by Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, freed all enslaved people in the South, the dream of freedom did not become a reality for people enslaved in Texas until two years later. General Gordon Granger led his Union troops to Galveston on June 19, 1865, and delivered General Order No. 3, declaring the end of the institution of slavery. Juneteenth commemorates this historic event. In 2021, Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday, and is now recognized in 47 states. The day is often celebrated by large gatherings with food, music, parades and more. Read on to find resources about Juneteenth at the Library!

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 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!

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!

May is a beautiful time for biking in Henrico! Whether it’s just around the corner, or throughout the region, Henrico County has several trails and bike lanes available. You can even take your bike on the GRTC bus! Read on to learn more about local, regional and statewide trails as well as Library resources to help you plan your next ride.