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!

The Great Depression was a tumultuous, decade-long crisis that brought challenging times to thousands of families across the country. It was also a period marked by resourcefulness and perseverance. Explore the history and pastimes of the Depression era in our 1930s Open House, a series of programs for all ages taking place throughout the day on Saturday, December 3 at Varina Area Library, hosted in partnership with the History Division of Henrico Recreation and Parks.

November is Native American Heritage Month, and the Library has a full line-up of performances, speakers, film screenings, and book discussions about Indigenous history and culture. Read on to learn more about upcoming programs and recommended titles from our collection!

Have you been wanting to trace your family’s history? Getting started can be a daunting process, and with the recent release of 1950s census data, there is more information to uncover than ever! But did you know that your library card gives you free access to genealogy resources? From databases, to books, to helpful guides, there are numerous tools to make the process more approachable.

Fall is officially here, and with darker nights and brisker air upon us, it’s no wonder that many of us seek something equally chilling to read or watch. This season, look no further than the library for all of your spooky needs. From slightly spooky to nightmare-worthy, find the perfect, frightening fit for everyone in the family.

Calling all artists – aspiring, beginner, or expert! HCPL’s collection is full of big, beautiful books of art prints, reproductions, how-to guides, and museum catalogs. These books contain inspiration and instruction for a wide variety of mediums and styles. You can study the work of your favorite artist, explore a particular movement in art history, or learn a new technique.

Introducing 100 Books Before Graduation, a new program that encourages teens in grades 6-12 to read by keeping track of the books you have to read, alongside the books you want to read, and earning prizes along the way!

Did you know that our Area Libraries offer a variety of computer and digital media classes that are completely free to library cardholders? Whether you need the basics or want to learn more advanced skills and software, we have resources to support you in your personal and professional development. Read on to learn more about our offerings. 

It's Banned Books Week (9/18-9/24)! Typically held during the last week in September, this annual event, now in its 40^th year, celebrates the freedom to read. Each year the American Library Association tracks which titles have been most targeted for removal or restriction in libraries and schools. In the spirit of this year’s theme, “Books Unite Us. Censorship Divides Us,” we encourage you to read on and explore the titles on this year’s Most Challenged list.