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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
Rescheduled
All We Can Save Circle - Discussion Group
Sat, Sep 14, 10:00am - 11:00am
New date Saturday, September 28, 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.
Trash Trekkers - Burke Branch Walking and Litter Pickup Club
Sat, Sep 14, 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.
Local Legacies: The Wood Family
Sat, Sep 14, 10:30am - 11:15am
Local History/Special Collections - Sprouse Rare Book Room
Hear how the Black Family Reunion helped preserve the Wood family history
Running 101
Sat, Sep 14, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
A workshop for beginner runners of all levels, where attendees will learn the basics from local Running Coach Nora Gluch
Writers Group at Beatley
Sun, Sep 15, 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!
Alzheimer's Association Caregiver Support Group
Sun, Sep 15, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Board Room
Alexandria Library partners with the Alzheimer's Association's National Area Chapter to bring you a quarterly support group at Beatley Central Library.
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Sep 16, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Conversation practice for English learners.
Senior Fitness Class
Mon, Sep 16, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
This program is tailored for older adults and offers gentle exercises promoting flexibility, strength, and balance.
Alexandria Library Board Meeting
Mon, Sep 16, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Board Room
Alexandria Library Board Meeting
English Language Learning (ELL) II - Intermediate Conversation
Mon, Sep 16, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Story Room
This is a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence.
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Sep 17, 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.
Common Ground Virginia History Book Group - Wild, Tamed, Lost, Revived by Diane Flynt
Tue, Sep 17, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Virtual - Zoom
Read and discuss compelling nonfiction books handpicked by Library staff that explore Virginia history, society, and culture. Register
Citizenship and Immigration 101 - A Guide to Your Rights and The Process Presented
Tue, Sep 17, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
Join us for a discussion on Citizenship and Immigration 101Register
Handcraft Tuesday - Evening Edition
Tue, Sep 17, 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, Sep 18, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Enjoy weekly sessions with other fiber artists. Share your projects and see others. Quilting tutorials will be provided on the first Wednesday of every month. No registration is required.
Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World - A Conversation with NYT Bestselling Author Nate Klemp, PhD
Wed, Sep 18, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Virtual
Join us as Nate Klemp helps us explore pathways back to openminded living when he talks to us about the core tenets in his new book Open: Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World. Register
Burke Book Club (Freedom to Read Edition) - "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury
Wed, Sep 18, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Virtual
Please join us online for a discussion Ray Bradbury's 1953 classic.Register
Adult and Dragons
Wed, Sep 18, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Teen Area
We roll at dusk!
English Language Learning (ELL) II - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Sep 18, 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.
Duncan Book Group - (ONLINE) "The Maidens" by Alex Michaelides
Wed, Sep 18, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Zoom
Join our ONLINE book club that meets in the evening, every third Wednesday of the month, to discuss a book chosen by one of the members!
Line Dancing
Thu, Sep 19, 11:00am - 12:00pm
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.
Film Series - "Book Club: The Next Chapter"
Thu, Sep 19, 2:00pm - 3:50pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Join us for a screening of this 2023 film starring Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, and Candice Bergen.
Carefull Knitting - Knit and Crochet for Good
Thu, Sep 19, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Join Barrett Branch’s knitting and crochet group making items to donate.
Nailed It! - ¡Pintemos esas uñas!
Thu, Sep 19, 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 Inklings - Adult Library Writing Group
Thu, Sep 19, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
⭐ Please email Ally Zomchek at [email protected] if interested in joining ⭐
Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group
Thu, Sep 19, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Teen Area
Both beginners and advanced fiber artists are welcome! Ages 12+
Great Books Discussion Group  - "The 7 Deadly Sins Sampler, a Great Books Anthology"
Thu, Sep 19, 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
The Write Stuff - for aspiring writers and seasoned authors alike
Sat, Sep 21, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
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!
Jewelry Making Workshop with Ms. Toni
Sat, Sep 21, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Learn to make bracelets and earrings to take.
This event is full
A Deep Dive in Character Development - with Global Sensation Liane Moriarty
Sat, Sep 21, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual
Join us as we chat with mega-bestselling author Liane Moriarty about her newest novel Here One Moment. Register
Freedom To Read Key Chains - Make a challenged book key chain
Sun, Sep 22, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Story Room
Support the freedom to read by making a challenged book key chain.
Oddball Cinema - My Beautiful Laundrette
Sun, Sep 22, 2:30pm - 4:35pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
An ambitious Pakistani Briton and his white boyfriend strive for success and hope when they open a glamorous laundromat.
Free to Read Puzzle Drop In
Mon, Sep 23, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
During Free to Read Week, stop into the Barrett Branch to add to our puzzle, which celebrates authors and the written words that expand our understanding of the human experience.
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Sep 23, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Conversation practice for English learners.
English Language Learning (ELL) II - Intermediate Conversation
Mon, Sep 23, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Periodicals Room
This is a space for intermediate speakers to practice English and build confidence.
Free to Read Puzzle Drop In
Tue, Sep 24, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
During Free to Read Week, stop into the Barrett Branch to add to our puzzle, which celebrates authors and the written words that expand our understanding of the human experience.
Cancelled
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Sep 24, 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.
Prepared! - Zombie Outbreak 3-Part Strategy Activity
Tue, Sep 24, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Uncover what caused a zombie outbreak, develop an emergency plan for the coming invasion, and envision how to recover & protect against future zombie attacks in this fun Climate Prep Week activity.
Handcraft Tuesday - Evening Edition
Tue, Sep 24, 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
Free to Read Puzzle Drop In
Wed, Sep 25, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
During Free to Read Week, stop into the Barrett Branch to add to our puzzle, which celebrates authors and the written words that expand our understanding of the human experience.
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Sep 25, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Enjoy weekly sessions with other fiber artists. Share your projects and see others. Quilting tutorials will be provided on the first Wednesday of every month. No registration is required.
Prepared! - Zombie Outbreak 3-Part Strategy Activity
Wed, Sep 25, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Uncover what caused a zombie outbreak, develop an emergency plan for the coming invasion, and envision how to recover & protect against future zombie attacks in this fun Climate Prep Week activity.
English Language Learning (ELL) II - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Sep 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.
DIY Velvet Pumpkins - A workshop for seasonal decor
Wed, Sep 25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Beginner sewing knowledge is encouraged, for TEENS & ADULTS
Free to Read Puzzle Drop In
Thu, Sep 26, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
During Free to Read Week, stop into the Barrett Branch to add to our puzzle, which celebrates authors and the written words that expand our understanding of the human experience.
English Language Learning (ELL) I - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Sep 26, 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, Sep 26, 11:00am - 12:00pm
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, Sep 26, 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.
Handcraft Crafternoon
Thu, Sep 26, 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!
Prepared! - Zombie Outbreak 3-Part Strategy Activity
Thu, Sep 26, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Uncover what caused a zombie outbreak, develop an emergency plan for the coming invasion, and envision how to recover & protect against future zombie attacks in this fun Climate Prep Week activity.
Tai Chi at Beatley Library - Balance Your Mind and Body
Thu, Sep 26, 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, Sep 26, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Both beginners and advanced fiber artists are welcome! Ages 12+
Free to Read Puzzle Drop In
Fri, Sep 27, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
During Free to Read Week, stop into the Barrett Branch to add to our puzzle, which celebrates authors and the written words that expand our understanding of the human experience.
Senior Housing Communities in Alexandria - Come learn about the senior communities in Alexandria
Fri, Sep 27, 10:30am - 11:45am
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Learn about the different types of senior communities available in Alexandria. Discover what services these communities provide and what you need to know when considering a move.
Free to Read Puzzle Drop In
Sat, Sep 28, All day
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
During Free to Read Week, stop into the Barrett Branch to add to our puzzle, which celebrates authors and the written words that expand our understanding of the human experience.
All We Can Save Circle - Discussion Group
Sat, Sep 28, 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
Grand Gaming Melee - Alexandria-Arlington Regional Gaming Group (AARGGH)
Sat, Sep 28, 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
Citizenship Starts at the Library - Discover Citizenship Test Prep Resources at the Library!
Sat, Sep 28, 10:30am - 11:30am
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Board Room
This workshop will showcase the library and community resources available for people preparing for the English portion of the U.S. citizenship test. Registration required. Limited to 15 participants.
Plant Wisdom – Herbal Medicine in Our Times
Sat, Sep 28, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Join Clinical Herbalists Kay Sidahmed and Amy Talcott for an afternoon of exploring the world of medicinal plants and how to apply them in everyday life without harming humans, plants, and planet
Handcraft Tuesday - Weekend Edition
Sat, Sep 28, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
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!
Jewelry Making Workshop with Ms. Toni
Sat, Sep 28, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Learn to make bracelets and earrings to take.
See all events
Last updated:  January 2024