January 2026
In This Issue:
Best Books of 2025
Tech Help After the Holidays
New Year, New Library Habits
Curated Winter Reads on Libby
Highlighted Events
All Events
Richmond Public Library Foundation Update
Sign Up for Our Newsletters
Library Closings
Best Books of 2025
Looking for Your Next Great Read?
Our library staff reads extensively throughout the year, and several of their selections emerged as top picks. From compelling fiction and thought-provoking nonfiction to titles that surprised, challenged, or comforted, our Staff’s Favorite Books of 2025 reflect the stories that stayed with them long after the final page.
 
Explore the full list and read why these books earned a place among staff favorites on the library's blog, Shelf Respect.
 
 
Tech Help After the Holidays
If you received a new device over the holidays—or want to feel more confident using the technology you already have—our free tech help will give you the support you need.
 
Library staff offer one-on-one assistance and beginner-friendly classes on topics such as setting up new devices, using email, downloading apps, navigating the internet safely, and organizing photos and files. No question is too small, and no prior experience is required.
 
Visit rvalibrary.info/techhelp or call your local Richmond Public Library location for more information or to schedule an appointment.
New Year, New Library Habits
Glittering Golden Confetti Decoration Over Blue Background
The new year is the perfect opportunity to build new routines—and Richmond Public Library is here to support you. With your library card, you can read more, learn something new, and make everyday life a little easier, all at no charge! Here are some fantastic ways to start the new year right:
  • Discover e-books and audiobooks through Libby.
  • Stream movies on Kanopy.
  • Listen to music on Hoopla.
  • Learn a new language using Lingopie.
  • Earn your high school diploma through Career Online High School.
  • Land your dream job using tools from JobNow.
  • Visit a branch for a quiet place to read or study.
  • Attend a class or program.
  • Connect with staff who are always happy to help.
However you’re starting the year, make the library part of your routine in 2026!
 
Curated Reads on Libby
New Year, New Series
January is the perfect time to refresh your reading goals. There’s no better way to kick start the year than diving into a brand-new series.
Wool [Tv Tie-In]: Book One of the Silo Series by Hugh Howey   The Housemaid by Freida McFadden   Only When It's Us by Chloe Liese   Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer   Sanctuary of the Shadow by Aurora Ascher
 
Jump Into a Good Read
Looking for a feel-good place to start your year? Every title on this list features the word “good” and plenty to enjoy inside the pages.
The Good Daughter by J. a. Baker   Good Material: A Read with Jenna Pick by Dolly Alderton   Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson   All Good People Here by Ashley Flowers   Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil: A Savannah Story by John Berendt
 
 
Highlighted Events
Wintery Polymer Clay Earrings
Wednesday, January 7, 2:00 PM
Ginter Park Branch
 
Get creative with polymer clay! Shape, bend, and cut your own earrings, then bake them into real jewelry to take home. Ages 13-18. Registration required.
The Great East End Bake-Off Club
Thursday, January 8, 6:00 PM
East End Branch
 
Each month several participants will bake the same item and come together to taste them and talk about challenges, triumphs, and the insights gained along the way.   
Researching Richmond 101
Thursday, January 15, 11:00 AM
Main Library
 
Curious about the history of your home or favorite park? Explore local history collections such as maps, photographs, and microfilm, then get help starting your own research projects. Registration required.
Estate Planning Legal Workshop
Tuesday, January 27, 2:00 PM
Westover Hills Branch
 
Learn the basics of wills, trusts, and estate planning from local attorneys. See examples of powers of attorney and more using a variety of legal resources. Registration required.
Nerdy Wordy Adult Spelling Bee
Wednesday, January 28, 5:00 PM
Belmont Branch
 
Enter our Adult Spelling Bee to match wits for some nerdy wordy fun! You can play solo or bring a team of friends (up to 4 people). Registration required.
All Events
 
 
Richmond Public Library Foundation Update
The new year is shaping up to be an exciting one around the library system. You'll find engaging new resources in the children's areas at every branch. This summer we'll welcome 10 early learning interns to support literacy during Summer Reading, and we'll continue to invite Richmonders to tell and share their stories in the Memory Lab.
 
If you're curious about a program, ready to get involved, or simply want to explore what your library has to offer, please give me a call at 804-646-5511.  I'll be happy to talk more about how the library can serve you.
 
Susan Revere
Executive Director
 
 
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Library Closings
 
As reminder, all Richmond Public Library locations will be closed on the following dates: 
 
Thursday, January 1 – New Year's Day 
Monday, January 19– Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 
Richmond Public Library
101 East Franklin Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219
(804) 646-7223
https://rvalibrary.org/