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 1st, customers 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 Thursday, February 29, 2024. 

 

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

Staff Picks for eBooks & Audiobooks

 

They Will Drown in Their Mothers' Tears The Alienist The Goldfinch A Mind Unraveled Manhattan Beach Dark Places

Upcoming Events
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Oct 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.
Film Series - "Miss Willoughby and the Haunted Bookshop"
Wed, Oct 30, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library
Celebrate the spooky season by joining us for a screening of the 2021 film featuring a haunted bookshop.
Adults and Dragons
Wed, Oct 30, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
We roll at dusk!
Registration is now closed
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Oct 30, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference Room
This is a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence.
Romance Book Club
Wed, Oct 30, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual - Zoom
Do you love to read romance novels? Want to talk about them with other romance book lovers? Join us on the last Weds. of the month! Click on the event title for more details.Register
Cancelled
English Language Learning (ELL) I - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Oct 31, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
Beginning English Practice for English language learners. No registration needed or prior level of English.
Line Dancing
Thu, Oct 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.
Nailed It! - ¡Pintemos esas uñas!
Thu, Oct 31, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
Social group that focuses on nail painting and designs for members of the community. All materials will be provided. Ages 8-18.
The Write Stuff - for aspiring writers and seasoned authors alike
Sat, Nov 02, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
Join us for a creative writing workshop where you will learn how to prep your environment for your best writing experience; novel structures, dialogue, worldbuilding, the editing process, and more!
Writers Group at Beatley
Sun, Nov 03, 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference Room
*Meeting every Sunday in November for NaNoWriMo!* 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!
Mindful Living: Exploring the Mind - An 8 week series on mindfulness for anyone and everyone
Sun, Nov 03, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
An eight week series on mindfully exploring how the mind works, mindful meditation, and setting intentions for a growth mindset to start your week off right!
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Nov 04, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
English conversation practice for English language learners.
Yoga At The Library - with Human Kind Yoga Collective
Mon, Nov 04, 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.
Cancelled
English Language Learning (ELL) I - Beginner Conversation
Tue, Nov 05, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
Beginning English Practice for English language learners. No registration needed or prior level of English.
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Nov 05, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Barrett Library has a volunteer available on Tuesdays to help with computer and technologies use. Appointments are available at 5 PM and 6 PM. Please call 703-746-1721 to schedule an appointment.
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Nov 06, 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.
Self-Care for Caregivers
Wed, Nov 06, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Virtual - Zoom
Join the RAFT program for an interactive virtual workshop on self-care and caregiver resilience. Learn ways to incorporate self-care into your everyday life. Register
Making History with Library of Virginia
Wed, Nov 06, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Virtual - Zoom
Join Library of Virginia for a virtual volunteer session to learn how you can help make historical documents more searchable and usable for researchers now and in the future.Register
NaNoWriMo Write-In - A 50,000 word novel writing challenge
Wed, Nov 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
National Novel Writing Month is a frantic writing challenge in a community of encouraging aspiring novelists. Bring your computer or a journal and work on your novel!
Monthly Meditation - A free ONLINE meditation class open to all levels
Wed, Nov 06, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Zoom
Need some zen to help you wind down after a long day? 🧘‍♀️
English Language Learning (ELL) I - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Nov 07, 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.
Line Dancing
Thu, Nov 07, 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.
Thursday Afternoon Book Discussion - "Small things like these" by Claire Keegan
Thu, Nov 07, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Do you have afternoons available? Join us at the library for some coffee, confections, and conversation about the newest titles on our shelves! 📚 ☕
Silver Artisans - Arts & Crafts Program for Seniors
Thu, Nov 07, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Please join us for a welcoming environment where seniors can connect, share stories, and rediscover the joy of artistry. We will be working on crafts celebrating the holiday season.
Carefull Knitting - Knit and Crochet for Good
Thu, Nov 07, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Join Barrett Branch’s knitting and crochet group making items to donate.
Handcraft Crafternoon
Thu, Nov 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference 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!
The Inklings - Adult Library Writing & Critique Group
Thu, Nov 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
⭐ Please email Ally Zomchek at azomchek@alexlibraryva.org if interested in joining ⭐
A Navajo Investigator’s Search for the Unexplained - In Conversation with Stanley Milford, Jr.
Thu, Nov 07, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual
Join us as Navajo Ranger, Stanley Milford, Jr. chats about the chilling and clear-eyed memoir of his investigations into bizarre cases of the paranormal and the unexplained in Navajoland.Register
World Short Story Discussion Group
Thu, Nov 07, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual - Zoom
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month by joining us for a discussion of these two stories: "The Night Cyclist" by Stephen Graham Jones and "The Team" by Tommy Orange.
Yarn Storm
Sat, Nov 09, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
All We Can Save Circle - Discussion Group
Sat, Nov 09, 10:00am - 11:00am
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
The Barrett Branch is hosting an All We Can Save Circle open to all interested in sincere discussion centered on the climate crisis and for those seeking community rooted in wise and just solutions.
This event is full
Trash Trekkers - Burke Branch Walking and Litter Pickup Club
Sat, Nov 09, 10:00am - 11:00am
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Outdoors
Start your Saturday doing good for your community. Join the Burke Branch walking and litter pickup club.
Writing Poetry about Loss and Grief - A workshop with City of Alexandria Poet Laureate Zeina Azzam
Sat, Nov 09, 11:00am - 1:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Read and write poems that explore subjects of death, coping with loss, how to preserve memories, and heal through poetry's voice, tone, and form. Register by emailing: poet@alexandriava.gov
Psychic Development Workshop - Hosted by Your Resident Intuitive: Amy K
Sat, Nov 09, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
This workshop will guide you through the basics of connecting with your intuition. Perfect for beginners or those wanting to refine their intuitive skills!
Handcraft Tuesday - Weekend Edition
Sat, Nov 09, 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!
Sobre la migración infantil desde Centroamérica - En conversación con Javier Zamora
Sat, Nov 09, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Virtual
El autor más vendido del New York Times Javier Zamora conversa con nosotros sobre su fascinante historia de supervivencia y perseverancia, tal como se cuenta en sus memorias premiadas Solito. Register
Yarn Storm
Sun, Nov 10, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
Writers Group at Beatley
Sun, Nov 10, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Small Conference Room
This is a twice-monthly forum for writers to work on drafts, network, share moral support. Meets first and third Sundays. All are welcome!
Yarn Storm
Tue, Nov 12, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
English Language Learning (ELL) I - Beginner Conversation
Tue, Nov 12, 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.
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Nov 12, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Barrett Library has a volunteer available on Tuesdays to help with computer and technologies use. Appointments are available at 5 PM and 6 PM. Please call 703-746-1721 to schedule an appointment.
Friends of the Duncan Library - Monthly Board Meeting
Tue, Nov 12, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
The Friends of Duncan Library's Board Members discuss the Duncan Branch activities, fund raising actives supporting the Duncan Branch programs, collection needs and Alexandria Library community goals.
Handcraft Tuesday - Evening Edition
Tue, Nov 12, 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
Yarn Storm
Wed, Nov 13, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Nov 13, 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.
Mystery Book Club - "The Case of the Shoplifter's Shoe" by Erle Stanley Gardner
Wed, Nov 13, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Virtual - Zoom
Please join us virtually for a discussion of Erle Stanley Gardner's 13th Perry Mason mystery novel. Register
Cancelled
Burke Branch Friends' Monthly Board Meeting
Wed, Nov 13, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library
There will be discussion and updates on Burke Branch activities, fundraising to support Burke Branch programs, collection needs, and Alexandria Library community goals.
NaNoWriMo Write-In - A 50,000 word novel writing challenge
Wed, Nov 13, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
National Novel Writing Month is a frantic writing challenge in a community of encouraging aspiring novelists. Bring your computer or a journal and work on your novel!
Literary Virginia Book Group - Happiness Falls by Angie Kim
Wed, Nov 13, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Virtual - Zoom
Read and discuss the best of today's Virginia literature—including books by Library of Virginia Literary Award winners and finalists in fiction and nonfiction.Register
Andes, Quinoa
Wed, Nov 13, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Speaker Linda Seligmann will discuss the impact of global demand for quinoa on the culture, development, and agrarian lives of Quechua quinoa cultivators in the Andes.
Yarn Storm
Thu, Nov 14, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
English Language Learning (ELL) I - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Nov 14, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
Beginning English Practice for English language learners. No registration needed or prior level of English.
Line Dancing
Thu, Nov 14, 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.
Learn and Play Mahjong (American Style) - Winning hands on 2024 card
Thu, Nov 14, 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 from 2 - 4 PM on the second floor. Accommodation is for 12 players so first come first served if more than 12.
On Childhood Migration from Central America - In Conversation with Javier Zamora
Thu, Nov 14, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Virtual
Join us for a conversation with New York Times bestselling author Javier Zamora as he chats with us about his riveting tale of survival and perseverance as told in his award-winning memoir Solito.Register
Cancelled
Nailed It! - ¡Pintemos esas uñas!
Thu, Nov 14, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
Social group that focuses on nail painting and designs for members of the community. All materials will be provided. Ages 8-18.
Self-Publishing 101 Workshop - A virtual workshop for aspiring writers
Thu, Nov 14, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Zoom
It's National Novel Writing Month and that means it's time to start thinking about publishing your story! This workshop will teach you the tips and tricks to self-publishing and what to expect
Duncan Literary Society - We meet at "The Company of Books"
Thu, Nov 14, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
The Company Of Books - 2200 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria, Va 22301
Join us for an "anti-book club" where we discuss what we're currently reading
See all events
Last updated:  January 2024