Women's History Month 2026

Monday, 09 March 2026

Celebrate HERstory at HCPL. This Women's History Month, visit the library to join a book discussion, learn about women both past and present, and put your women's history knowledge to the test. Read on for a list of upcoming programs as well as titles from our collection that highlight trailblazing women and their stories.

Gayton Afternoon Book Discussion
- Monday, March 9, 1-2PM at Gayton
- Given only two years to live by her doctor in 1954, Annie Wilkins sets out on horseback from her home in Maine to see the Pacific Ocean. Join our discussion of The Ride of Her Life by Elizabeth Letts.

Libbie Mill Afternoon and Evening Book Discussions
- Tuesday, March 10, 1PM & 7PM at Libbie Mill
- In 18th century New England, midwife and healer Martha Ballard struggles to solve the mystery behind a local man's shocking death. Join us for a discussion of The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon.

Gift a Playlist for Teens
- Wednesday, March 11, 6:30-8PM at Fairfield
- Registration required. Highlight your favorite women musicians by making a QR code playlist. As a throwback to gifting mixtapes, we’ll design cassette-tape-inspired cards to attach your QR codes to using Canva so you, your friends, and loved ones can celebrate women’s voices.

Historically Speaking: Meet Abigail Adams
- Saturday, March 14, 11AM-12PM at Glen Allen
- Wife of the second U.S. President John Adams, Abigail Smith Adams was ahead of her time as an early supporter of women's education and rights, and the abolition of slavery. Join living historian Debbie Phillips for a portrayal of Abigail Adams where she is sure to remind us to "remember the ladies." Presented in partnership with Henrico County Recreation and Parks, History Division and sponsored by the Friends of the Library. This program is offered as part of the library's commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and US Independence in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Women of the Revolution with Bert Dunkerly
- Monday, March 16, 1-2PM at Gayton
- From the wooded slopes of Kings Mountain to the fields of Cowpens, historian and author Robert M. Dunkerly covers the stories and legends of the women caught up in the struggle for American independence. His book, Women of the Revolution: Bravery and Sacrifice on Southern Battlefields, which chronicles the experiences of women in the eighteenth century, will be available for purchase and signing. Sponsored by the Friends of HCPL. This program is offered as part of the library's commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and US Independence in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Varina Evening Book Discussion
- Monday, March 16, 7-8PM at Varina
- Across centuries two women, Melina Green and Emilia Bassano, one a modern playwright and the other her Elizabethan ancestor, each fight societal expectations to have their voices heard on the stage in a world that silences female playwrights Join us for a discussion of By Any Other Nameby Jodi Picoult.

Women’s History Trivia
- Thursday, March 19, 3:30-4:30PM at Gayton
- Test your knowledge and learn more about Women's History. All are welcome. If you are lucky, you may win a prize courtesy of the Friends of the Library.

Teen Art Studio: Inspirational Women Artists
- Tuesday, March 24, 6-8PM at Varina
- For this Teen Art Studio edition and in honor of Women’s History Month, join us for a creative exploration of the impact and achievements of women artists throughout history. From Frida Kahlo’s bold self-expression to Georgia O’Keeffe’s stunning landscapes and Kara Walker's historic storytelling through bold silhouettes, this program will explore the lives and works of trailblazing figures who transformed the art world. Teens will create their own artwork inspired by these visionary artists, using a variety of techniques and mediums. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or mixed media, this is your chance to express your creativity while celebrating the contributions of women who’ve shaped our world. All skill levels are welcome, and materials will be provided.

COLLECTION

PICTURE BOOKS