Labor Day has come and gone, summer is slipping away, and we are on the verge of a new season. As we transition into fall, we find ourselves reflecting on new beginnings and the feelings of excitement and nervousness that often come along with change. Thankfully, our recent PR intern, Shishira, left us with some words of wisdom and a list of books to help us navigate what lies ahead. Read on for more.
Whether you’re a student, teacher, caregiver, or simply trying to figure out what the rest of your life looks like, the end of summer often signifies change. As my time as the PR intern for Henrico County Public Library comes to an end, I feel that sense of change deep in my soul. I can confidently say that in these last few months I have grown, and only for the better. I’ve met the best people during my internship, and they’ve taught me even better lessons, the most important being that all you need to make anything happen is yourself! So even though this can be a nerve-racking time of year, I’m reminded by the people around me that no matter how daunting the feeling, I am never alone. Countless others have walked the same path, and if they can make the journey, then so can you! To anyone feeling anxious about what comes next, I’ve put together a few titles to remind you that you are not alone:
COLLECTION
PICTURE BOOKS
- The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson - Rigoberto walks into a new place, new room, with new people and does not know how to handle it all, until he simply does.
- The Koala Who Could by Rachel Bright - Kevin the koala prefers staying up at the top of his tree while the rest of his friends play in the grass, until he learns that maybe the ground isn’t so bad after all.
- Little Tree by Loren Long - Little Tree is happy being surrounded by other trees in the forest with his leaves to keep him cool. But when the other trees start to lose their leaves, Little Tree does not want to lose his.
- No Matter What by Debi Gilori - Small, a tiny fox, needs a reminder every now and then that he is loved.
- You Are Here by Zachary Manbeck (also available on Hoopla) – The world is an exciting place with endless possibilities and paths. Where will you go and how will you get there?
KIDS
- A Little Bit Super: With Small Powers Come Big Problems edited by Leah Henderson (also available on Hoopla) – A series of funny short stories about kids with quirky superpowers who learn how to find their voice, take pride in who they are, and contribute to their communities.
- Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery (also available on Hoopla) – Intent on adopting a young boy, the Cuthberts instead receive fiery, red-headed Anne. It’s with them that Anne learns the true meaning of “family” and what it feels like to belong.
- New Kid by Jerry Craft (also available on Hoopla) – When his parents send him to a fancy private school instead of his dream art school, seventh grader Jordan Banks struggles with fitting in at school and maintaining his friendships at home.
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio – Ten-year-old Auggie Pullman, who was born with facial differences, is starting fifth grade at Beecher Prep where he will have to brave all sorts of things, including his classmates and his own fears.
TEENS
- Careers: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Future by DK – Whether you’re looking to shift paths or have no idea which path to take, this career planning guide is perfect for teens and new grads seeking support on planning their future.
- The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Ben Philippe (also available on Hoopla) – Black French Canadian teen Norris Kaplan is skeptical about moving to Austin, Texas. Certain he won’t fit in, Norris overcomes his own cynicism in order to form genuine friendships and maybe even a relationship. Can he manage to not mess things up?
- For Every One by Jason Reynolds (also available on Hoopla) – In this inspirational poem, the author recounts his own story of “making it.” While some dreams have come true, he’s realized that “making it” is a journey, not a destination. The journey is ongoing and always evolving. Despite struggles and forks in the road, what matters most is your belief in yourself and your ability to keep dreaming.
- Getting Comfortable with Uncertainty for Teens: 10 Tips to Overcome Anxiety, Fear, and Worry by Juliana Negreiros (also available on Hoopla) – Two psychologists provide tips for teens on how to cope with feelings of anxiousness and fear when life is uncertain.
ADULTS
- The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (also available on Hoopla) - Santiago embarks on a journey in search of treasure. The quest has promised him riches he has never even imagined, however, they may or may not be as obvious as he thought.
- Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi (also available on Hoopla) - One summer, four customers of a special cafe are offered the chance to travel back in time —until the coffee gets cold.
- Everything I Know About Love: A Memoir by Dolly Alderton (also available on Hoopla) - Journalist Dolly Alderton recalls her experiences in every aspect of life, like dating, getting her first job, and making meaningful friendships during times when she thought she never would.
- The Midnight Library by Matt Haig - A library offers you every decision you’ve ever made, and then the chance to change them. Would you?
- Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin - A chance meeting between two people leads to a life none of them could have imagined.
PROGRAMS
While you’re embracing all things new, why not try something new at the library too? Knit with friends, attend a book discussion, practice your Spanish skills, take a computer class, learn how to grow your business, and so much more. Check out our upcoming programs to add to your fall calendar.