Living Better with Every Book

Richmond Public Libraries

The idea of storing written information is as old as civilization, and evidence makes clear that forms of libraries existed as long ago as 5000 years. Today, libraries house media of all kind. From books to magazines, encyclopedias and audio recordings, DVDs and documents, microfilm, maps, and more, the information you can access with a library card and your imagination is staggering. With Internet access, your local library opens onto the world. The Richmond area boasts a number of libraries that offer residents opportunities to learn, relax, and discuss just about anything.

Family Resource Centers
Every branch in the Richmond Public Library System houses a Family Resource Center (FRC). In addition to special programs for families at the FRC, there is plenty for individuals and child care professionals. Learn about infant and child development, adolescence, parenting, and available community resources. Check out activity books, parenting magazines, educational videos, and more. Discover Web resources to address every facet of parenting. Explore creative learning materials that use art, music, and dance to teach skills and information. Contact each branch to learn about its unique holdings.

Richmond Public Library Branches
Hurricane season is here! Don’t fret. Get informed! At the East End Branch, 2414 R St., take a Disaster Preparedness Class led by the American Red Cross. Learn how to assemble a personal evacuation kit and disaster supplies are vital. Learn the difference between a hurricane “watch” and a “warning.” Registration required. Info 646-4474

Main Branch, 101 E. Franklin St. In addition to being a top-notch library staffed with helpful librarians, the Main Branch houses several art galleries featuring the work of Richmond and Virginia artists. You’re invited to an Opening Night Reception for all featured artists, Friday, Sep. 5, from 7 to 9 p.m. The Yarmouth Chamber Players will perform in the Gellman Room. In addition to a permanent collection of prints of renowned authors by David Freed in the Freed Gallery, from Sep. 5 - 30, exhibits featured are: “The Wrapping of Pont Neuf,” photography by the late Richmond artist, Margot Blank. Gellman Room; “Landscape Vibrancy: Created and Natural,” work by Richmond artist Carmen Bendersky, impressionistic oils. Dooley Foyer; “From Brummana to Birmingham: A Lebanese American Family,” black-and-white documentary photography by Virginia photographer Amy Joseph. Dooley Hall; “Imaginary Landscapes,” in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, oils by Iris M. Ruisanchez, a member of Hispanic Women in the Arts. 2nd Floor Gallery. Info 646-4256.

Broad Rock Branch, 4820 Old Warwick Rd., is hosting the “Big Flea Market & Yard Sale,” Sep. 6, from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. You’ll support the library as you enjoy snacks and food, and shop for clothing, furniture, toys, and more. If you want to improve your English language skills or learn about the United States, consider taking Broad Rock’s “English Literacy Civics Class,” Mondays, 6 to 8 p.m., Saturdays, 10:30 - 12:30 p.m. Info 646-8488

Enjoy Wednesday night movies at the Westover Hills Branch, 1408 Westover Hills Blvd. This week’s film is “Osama,” screening at 6:30 p.m. Info 646-8833. Hull Street Branch, 1400 Hull St. offers Adult Computer Classes teaching basic computer skills. Call 646-8699 to register. Ginter Park Branch, 1200 Westbrook Ave. 646-1236. The Belmont Branch, 3100 Ellwood Ave., has stimulating children’s events everyday. 646-1139. North Avenue Branch, 2901 North Ave. 646-6675; West End Branch, 5420 Patterson Ave. 646-1877

Henrico County Library System
In addition to a wealth of reading hours and events for children, Henrico Co. Library offers many unique offerings for adults.

Sep. 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. Become a savvy pro with Publisher 2003. Learn to convert your work into a functional and attractive Webpage in “Newsletters & More.” Class requires knowledge of Publisher I. Twin Hickory Area Library. Registration begins Sep. 1, online or by phone, at 364-1400.

Sep. 6, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Professional Behavior Profiler, Christine Jordan, opens up about her intriguing career and the enigmatic world of handwriting analysis and document authentication. Dumbarton Area Library, Info 262-6507 ext. 5.

In addition to Twin Hickory and Dumbarton Branches, Henrico Co. Library has locations at Gayton Rd., North Park, Varina, Tuckahoe, Sandston, Fairfield, Glen Allen, and Innsbrook.