Skip to main content
close
font 1 font 2 font 3
Reset to standard size
Font size options
Increase or decrease the font size for this website by clicking on the 'A's.
Yellow on Black White on Black Soft Greys Black on Linen Black on White
Reset to default contrast
Contrast options
Choose a color combination to give the most comfortable contrast.

ADULT WINTER READING


To celebrate Love Your Library Month, the Library is hosting its annual Adult Winter Reading Contest.

Starting February 1, patrons are encouraged to stop by any Alexandria Library branch to learn more about the Adult Winter Reading program.

By reading one book or listening to one audiobook, you can be entered to win a gift card. You can fill out an entry form at any of the branches or participate at alexandria.beanstack.com. Maximum of five entries per customer.

Physical entries must be submitted by Friday, February 28, 2025. 

 

BOOK MATCH

What are your favorite types of books? What book can you not live without? 

Fill out a short questionnaire and receive a personalized list of book recommendations hand-picked by our staff.

 

GET A BOOK MATCH

 

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Browse genres, search for a title or author, review booklists and more.

 

ACCESS BOOKS AND AUTHORS

 

 VIEW TUTORIAL

 

NOVELIST

Find book recommendations based on appeal factors, curated lists, and read-alikes for titles you enjoy.

 

ACCESS NOVELIST

 

 VIEW TUTORIAL

Upcoming Events
Votes for Cats! Alexandria Library Cat Contest 2025 Voting - Vote now for the next Library Cat
Fri, Jul 18, All day
Virtual
Voting is now open to determine who will be the Alexandria Library Cat of 2025.
Medicare 101 - Helping you navigate Medicare with VA Insurance Counseling
Fri, Jul 18, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Come learn about your Medicare options – Original Medicare (Parts A & B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D), and Medicare Supplement (Medigap).
Registration is now closed
Votes for Cats! Alexandria Library Cat Contest 2025 Voting - Vote now for the next Library Cat
Sat, Jul 19, All day
Virtual
Voting is now open to determine who will be the Alexandria Library Cat of 2025.
Cancelled
VETOGA Weekly Community Yoga (Hatha-Raja) - Level 1 sessions hosted by Adam Shaw
Sat, Jul 19, 10:30am - 11:30am
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
Stretch, breathe and cultivate your connections with body-heart-mind-spirit
Handcraft Tuesday - Weekend Edition
Sat, Jul 19, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Attention all handcrafters! Join us to share what you are working on, see what others are creating, and just chat while we craft together!
Votes for Cats! Alexandria Library Cat Contest 2025 Voting - Vote now for the next Library Cat
Sun, Jul 20, All day
Virtual
Voting is now open to determine who will be the Alexandria Library Cat of 2025.
Writers Group at Beatley
Sun, Jul 20, 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference Room
This is a twice-monthly forum for writers to work on drafts, network, and share moral support. Meets first and third Sundays. All are welcome!
Alexandria Oddball Cinema - Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame
Sun, Jul 20, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Oddball Cinema brings you all of the weird, eclectic, and lesser-known films you probably never saw in theaters. Click on the event title for more info!
Votes for Cats! Alexandria Library Cat Contest 2025 Voting - Vote now for the next Library Cat
Mon, Jul 21, All day
Virtual
Voting is now open to determine who will be the Alexandria Library Cat of 2025.
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Jul 21, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
English practice for English language learners. No registration is needed. Class is held in the Burke Branch Meeting Room
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Mon, Jul 21, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference Room
This volunteer-led workshop provides a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence. No registration required. No certificates of completion are issued.
Adults and Dragons - REGISTRATION CLOSED -
Mon, Jul 21, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
We roll at dusk!
Horror Fans Unite! - A summer horror club!
Mon, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Do you like scary movies, books, tv shows, or video games? Do you enjoy making horror themed DIY projects? This is the event for you!
Yoga At The Library - with Human Kind Yoga Collective
Mon, Jul 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Our mission is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment where people can explore, learn, play, and evolve together - one breath at a time
This event is full
Votes for Cats! Alexandria Library Cat Contest 2025 Voting - Vote now for the next Library Cat
Tue, Jul 22, All day
Virtual
Voting is now open to determine who will be the Alexandria Library Cat of 2025.
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Tue, Jul 22, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Beginning English practice for English language learners. No registration needed or prior level of English. These workshops are led by volunteers and do not include certificates of completion.
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Jul 22, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Barrett Library has a volunteer available on Tuesdays to help with computer and technologies use. Please call 703-746-1721 to schedule an appointment.
Eco:mmunion - Conversations to Sustain People and Planet
Tue, Jul 22, 6:45pm - 7:45pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Looking for a space to talk about climate change and the things affected that we love? Join us for a monthly discussion focused on a relevant topic. Register to receive the materials suggestions.
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Jul 23, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Enjoy weekly sessions with other fiber artists. Bring and share your projects, and see others. Quilting tutorials will be provided on the first Wednesday of every month. No registration is required.
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Jul 23, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference Room
This volunteer-led workshop provides a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence. No registration required. No certificates of completion are issued.
English Language Learning - ELL Classes
Wed, Jul 23, 6:45pm - 7:45pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Drop in Conversational English language learning!
Book a Librarian - Applications Assistance
Thu, Jul 24, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Schedule time with a librarian on Thursday mornings to receive help with applications. Appointments are available at 10 AM and 11 AM. Please call 703-746-1721 to schedule an appointment.
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Jul 24, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Beginning English practice for English language learners. No registration needed or prior level of English. These workshops are led by volunteers and do not include certificates of completion.
Line Dancing
Thu, Jul 24, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Learn basic line dance steps while you workout to Golden Oldies music. This is a great class for beginners. Bring a friend or come alone. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
American Style Mahjong - Learn and Play
Thu, Jul 24, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
The Barrett Branch Mahjong group meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. Space is available for up to 12 players, so it's first come first served as game tables fill.
Tai Chi at Beatley Library - Balance Your Mind and Body
Thu, Jul 24, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Frank and Betty Wright Reading Garden,Large Meeting Room
Join Jorge Banales as he gives instruction on the Yang Style 24 Movement Tai Chi form on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month. Free and open to the public.
Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group
Thu, Jul 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
All crafters are welcome! Ages 13+
VETOGA Weekly Community Yoga (Hatha-Raja) - Level 1 sessions hosted by Adam Shaw
Sat, Jul 26, 10:30am - 11:30am
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Stretch, breathe and cultivate your connections with body-heart-mind-spirit
This event is full
Parenting Professional Development Series - Baby Steps Towards Self-Care and Building Resiliency
Sat, Jul 26, 10:30am - 11:30am
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Parenting can be hard enough! Learn to work a bit smarter, not harder, in our monthly Parenting Professional Development Sessions hosted by Carin Andrews, founder of Engaged Training & Consulting.
Calligraphy Workshop
Sat, Jul 26, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Are you curious about learning in calligraphy?Join us to learn and practice different styles each session at Burke!
Summer Treats Recipe Swap - What are your favorite summer recipes?
Sat, Jul 26, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Bring in your favorite summer recipes and try recipes other people bring in!
Artistic Outlets Creativity Workshop
Sat, Jul 26, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Frank and Betty Wright Reading Garden
Ages 12+. Explore ways to channel your feelings, thoughts, and experiences through different art styles and mediums.
House Plant Swap
Sat, Jul 26, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Bring your extra houseplants or cuttings and take something new home! Please check your plants for pests before bringing them in and put cuttings in soil, water, or wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Oddball Cinema - The Man Who Wasn't There
Sat, Jul 26, 2:00pm - 4:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Join Oddball Cinema for of showing of the film!
French Conversation Club
Sat, Jul 26, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Board Room
Ages 14+. Develop and exercise your French conversation skills.
Alexandria Oddball Cinema - "Kajillionaire"
Sun, Jul 27, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Oddball Cinema brings you all of the weird, eclectic, and lesser-known films you probably never saw in theaters.
Senior Bingo
Mon, Jul 28, 10:15am - 12:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Join us to socialize and engage your mind with a game of bingo served with food, prizes, and fun. Registration is required.
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Jul 28, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
English practice for English language learners. No registration is needed. Class is held in the Burke Branch Meeting Room
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Mon, Jul 28, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room,Small Conference Room
This volunteer-led workshop provides a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence. No registration required. No certificates of completion are issued.
Adults and Dragons - REGISTRATION CLOSED -
Mon, Jul 28, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
We roll at dusk!
Make a Handmade Book
Mon, Jul 28, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Join us for the fun paper craft of book making.
This event is full
Yoga At The Library - with Human Kind Yoga Collective
Mon, Jul 28, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Our mission is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment where people can explore, learn, play, and evolve together - one breath at a time
This event is full
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Tue, Jul 29, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Beginning English practice for English language learners. No registration needed or prior level of English. These workshops are led by volunteers and do not include certificates of completion.
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Jul 29, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Barrett Library has a volunteer available on Tuesdays to help with computer and technologies use. Please call 703-746-1721 to schedule an appointment.
Ace the Interview - Tips to Stand Out in a Competitive Market
Tue, Jul 29, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Certified Federal Career Coach and Job Search Trainer, Latoyah Saunders will provide tips and advice on how to bring your best self to the interview.
Handcraft Tuesday - Evening Edition
Tue, Jul 29, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual
Attention all handcrafters! Join us to share what you are working on, see what others are creating, and just chat while we craft together!Register
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Jul 30, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Enjoy weekly sessions with other fiber artists. Bring and share your projects, and see others. Quilting tutorials will be provided on the first Wednesday of every month. No registration is required.
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Jul 30, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference Room
This volunteer-led workshop provides a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence. No registration required. No certificates of completion are issued.
Plant Swap - bring your plant trimmings or plants you wish to trade!
Wed, Jul 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Teen Area
🌱 Bring your plants, cuttings, and seeds to exchange with friends and neighbors! Plants must be healthy and pest free - bonus points for local! 🌱
English Language Learning - ELL Classes
Wed, Jul 30, 6:45pm - 7:45pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Drop in Conversational English language learning!
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Jul 31, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Beginning English practice for English language learners. No registration needed or prior level of English. These workshops are led by volunteers and do not include certificates of completion.
Book a Librarian - Applications Assistance
Thu, Jul 31, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Schedule time with a librarian on Thursday mornings to receive help with applications. Appointments are available at 10 AM and 11 AM. Please call 703-746-1721 to schedule an appointment.
Line Dancing
Thu, Jul 31, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Learn basic line dance steps while you workout to Golden Oldies music. This is a great class for beginners. Bring a friend or come alone. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
On the Strangeness and Wonder of Our Brains with Pria Anand
Thu, Jul 31, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Virtual - Virtual
You’re invited to a fascinating conversation with neurologist and author Pria Anand to chat about her new book The Mind Electric: A Neurologist on the Strangeness and Wonder of Our Brains.Register
Summer Film Series - Ballad of Wallis Island
Thu, Jul 31, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Join us for a 2025 British comedy-drama film where a folk duo reunite to perform for a wealthy fan on a remote Welsh island.
Handcraft Crafternoon
Thu, Jul 31, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference Room
NEW EXTENDED TIME! 3-5 PM! Attention all handcrafters! Join us to share what you are working on, see what others are creating, and just chat while we craft together!
Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group
Thu, Jul 31, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
All crafters are welcome! Ages 13+
VETOGA Weekly Community Yoga (Hatha-Raja) - Level 1 sessions hosted by Adam Shaw
Sat, Aug 02, 10:30am - 11:30am
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Stretch, breathe and cultivate your connections with body-heart-mind-spirit
Spanish Conversation Club
Sat, Aug 02, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Ages 14+. Develop and exercise your spanish conversation skills.
See all events
Last updated:  January 2025