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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
Yarn Storm
Thu, Nov 21, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
Line Dancing
Thu, Nov 21, 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.
Trans-Atlantic Book Club with Dundee, Scotland - reading "Thou shalt not suffer a witch"
Thu, Nov 21, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Virtual
Join our Sister Library in Dundee, Scotland to discuss the short story "Thou shalt not suffer a witch" by Scottish author Dorothy K. Haynes. Registration required.Register
Film Screening: "Te Ata"
Thu, Nov 21, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month by joining us for a screening of a film based on the true story of Mary Thompson Fisher.
Carefull Knitting - Knit and Crochet for Good
Thu, Nov 21, 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 21, 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!
Alexandria Oddball Cinema - Fall
Thu, Nov 21, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
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!
The Inklings - Adult Library Writing & Critique Group
Thu, Nov 21, 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 ⭐
Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group
Thu, Nov 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Teen Area
Both beginners and advanced fiber artists are welcome! Ages 13+
Great Books Discussion Group  - "The 7 Deadly Sins Sampler, a Great Books Anthology"
Thu, Nov 21, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Virtual - Zoom
Join us on Zoom the third Thursday of each month! We are discussing selections from "The 7 Deadly Sins Sampler, a Great Books Foundation Anthology."  Click on the event title for more info!Register
Yarn Storm
Fri, Nov 22, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
Yarn Storm
Sat, Nov 23, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
Grand Gaming Melee - Alexandria-Arlington Regional Gaming Group (AARGGH)
Sat, Nov 23, 10:30am - 4:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Grand Gaming Melee: The Alexandria-Arlington Regional Gaming Group (AARGGH) invites you to play dice games, card games, tile games, and just about any other kind of tabletop game. Register
Tea Blending Workshop - Lead by Savory Blends Tea Co.
Sat, Nov 23, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Unleash your creativty with tea! Join us for a fun educational and highly interactive experience making a tea blend for yourself or as a unique gift!
This event is full
Yarn Storm
Sun, Nov 24, 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 24, 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, and share moral support. Meets first and third Sundays. All are welcome!
Yarn Storm
Mon, Nov 25, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Nov 25, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
English conversation practice for English language learners.
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Mon, Nov 25, 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.
Yoga At The Library - with Human Kind Yoga Collective
Mon, Nov 25, 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.
Yarn Storm
Tue, Nov 26, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Nov 26, 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.
Newspaper Table Runner - Carbon-Neutral Crafting
Tue, Nov 26, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Make an interesting and sustainable decoration made from upcycled newspapers. And when you no longer need it, toss it in the recycle bin!
Handcraft Tuesday - Evening Edition
Tue, Nov 26, 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 27, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
Cancelled
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Nov 27, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library
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.
Adults and Dragons
Wed, Nov 27, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
We roll at dusk!
This event is full
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Nov 27, 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.
NaNoWriMo Write-In - A 50,000 word novel writing challenge
Wed, Nov 27, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Teen Area
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!
Cancelled
Nailed It! - ¡Pintemos esas uñas!
Thu, Nov 28, 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.
Yarn Storm
Sat, Nov 30, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
We are collecting handmade or store bought scarves, hats and mittens.
Handcraft Tuesday - Weekend Edition - Craft Supply Swap on December 21st! Trade your old supplies!
Sat, Nov 30, 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!
Writers Group at Beatley
Sun, Dec 01, 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, Dec 01, 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!
This event is full
Upcycled Wrapping - Holiday Gift Decorating Kits
Mon, Dec 02, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Don't spend money on more wrapping paper! Create beautifully wrapped gifts that will marvel your loved ones and spare the Earth. Pick up a kit at the Barrett Branch beginning December 2.
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Dec 02, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
English conversation practice for English language learners.
Cancelled
English Language Learning (ELL 2) Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Mon, Dec 02, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
This volunteer-led workshop provides a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence. No registration required.
Yoga At The Library - with Human Kind Yoga Collective
Mon, Dec 02, 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
Upcycled Wrapping - Holiday Gift Decorating Kits
Tue, Dec 03, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Don't spend money on more wrapping paper! Create beautifully wrapped gifts that will marvel your loved ones and spare the Earth. Pick up a kit at the Barrett Branch beginning December 2.
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Dec 03, 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.
Handmade Gift Bow - Carbon-Neutral Crafting
Tue, Dec 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Top off your holiday gifts with an easy handmade bow.
Handcraft Tuesday - Evening Edition
Tue, Dec 03, 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
Upcycled Wrapping - Holiday Gift Decorating Kits
Wed, Dec 04, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Don't spend money on more wrapping paper! Create beautifully wrapped gifts that will marvel your loved ones and spare the Earth. Pick up a kit at the Barrett Branch beginning December 2.
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Dec 04, 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.
Unearthed: Exploring the Smithsonian National Gem Collection - with Dr. Jeffrey Post
Wed, Dec 04, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Virtual - Zoom
Join us for a dazzling presentation with the emeritus curator of the Smithsonian's National Gem Collection.Register
Cancelled
English Language Learning (ELL 2) Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Dec 04, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
This volunteer-led workshop provides a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence. No registration required.
DIY Wreath Making Workshop - Deck the halls with this beginner craft!
Wed, Dec 04, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Using fresh pine branches, berries, and bows, create a dazzling seasonal wreath to decorate your space! ❄️ ADULTS ONLY ❄️
This event is full
Monthly Meditation - A free ONLINE meditation class open to all levels
Wed, Dec 04, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Zoom
Need some zen to help you wind down after a long day? 🧘‍♀️
Upcycled Wrapping - Holiday Gift Decorating Kits
Thu, Dec 05, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Don't spend money on more wrapping paper! Create beautifully wrapped gifts that will marvel your loved ones and spare the Earth. Pick up a kit at the Barrett Branch beginning December 2.
Line Dancing
Thu, Dec 05, 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.
Carefull Knitting - Knit and Crochet for Good
Thu, Dec 05, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Join Barrett Branch’s knitting and crochet group making items to donate.
Cancelled
Handcraft Crafternoon
Thu, Dec 05, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
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, Dec 05, 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 ⭐
Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group
Thu, Dec 05, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Teen Area
Both beginners and advanced fiber artists are welcome! Ages 13+
Upcycled Wrapping - Holiday Gift Decorating Kits
Fri, Dec 06, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Don't spend money on more wrapping paper! Create beautifully wrapped gifts that will marvel your loved ones and spare the Earth. Pick up a kit at the Barrett Branch beginning December 2.
See all events
Last updated:  January 2024