Storytimes are a wonderful way to introduce books and the joy of reading to your little ones. They help build early literacy skills and acquaint young readers with their library and community. At HCPL, we recognize that young readers have different needs and abilities, and our goal is to help each reader find the right fit. Read on to learn more about the Library’s storytime offerings including the new Adaptive Storytime!

All Henrico Reads, our signature author event, returns in 2023 with bestselling and award-winning author Jamie Ford, who will discuss his newest novel The Many Daughters of Afong Moy at J.R. Tucker High School on March 30 at 7 p.m.  The community is invited to gather together to learn more about this thought-provoking work as the event returns to an in-person author discussion with an opportunity for Q&A with the author, book sales from Fountain Books, and a book signing.  Book discussion groups about Mr. Ford’s novel begin at library locations across the county next month.  Read on to learn more about the book and how you can get involved with this all-community read.

There are lots of ways to find new favorite authors. At the library you can always ask a librarian for suggestions, or request a book list through My Next Read, but sometimes it feels like a lot to commit to a whole novel. Short stories are a great way to try an author's work and get a taste of their style in a single sitting!  

Our Staff Picks lists are here! Whether you’re looking for new books to add to your TBR list or great titles to gift this holiday season, below you’ll find our favorite books we've read this year. Be sure to also check out our favorite Teen and Children’s reads too. We hope you enjoy these lists as much as we enjoy compiling them!

Explore our staff's favorite Children's titles read this year for an array of books to share with your little one! The Kids page on our website is another great resource and includes reading lists by age and grade, a link to our My Next Read service, information about our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Challenge, and more. Of course, should ever need assistance or recommendations, you can always call or visit!

Be sure to check out our Staff Picks lists for Adults and Teens as well to find new reads for the whole family!

Our staff read across all genres and have a wide selection of teen titles to recommend this year. So whether you enjoy fantasy, romance, graphic novels, history, sci-fi, or realistic fiction, we hope there’s something for everyone in the titles listed below! And while you’re reading, why not earn prizes too? Check out our 100 Books Before Graduation Challenge page to learn more.

There are lots of book clubs out there now, and there's more than one way to run a successful one.  From selecting a title befitting your group, to developing meaningful discussion prompts, the library can support you every step of the way.

It’s holiday time once again! Whether you celebrate Chanukah, Christmas, or Kwanzaa, consider making your celebration more special by making it a DIY holiday. In the Kwanzaa tradition, the exchange of gifts should be an experience without stress, creating appreciation for both giver and receiver. Handcrafting gifts, decorations, and meals for your home and gatherings sends a message of consideration and love. The Library offers a variety of resources for creating a unique and personal experience this holiday season.

Whether in the sweltering heat of summer, or the blustery cold of winter, Libraries offer a comfortable indoor refuge from the elements, and supplies you can take home to enjoy the great indoors.  Read on for some of our recommended winter offerings to help you make the most of cozy season!