If you’re looking to escape the monotony of countless days at home, get lost in a good book from the Henrico County Public Library (HCPL). The COVID-19 pandemic may have closed library buildings, but there are thousands of great reads accessible online.
From classics to bestsellers, OverDrive offers HCPL’s largest collection of eBooks. There are more than 100,000 choices. Members can check out up to 25 titles at a time and keep the eBooks for up to 21 days. Other options include online audiobooks, magazines, music, movies, picture books and newspapers to stream or download.
HCPL now offers new digital library cards which allow access to online learning resources like Tutor.com. This website provides live online tutoring and other help with schoolwork. Adult learners can use it to get help with resumes.
Many online services offered before the libraries closed remain open. Ask A Librarian enables members to get help during business hours by clicking the green tab on the right side of any page on the HCPL website. Librarians also continue to offer online book recommendations through My Next Read.
“Library staff are brimming with ideas about how to connect with our community online,” explains Henrico County Public Library Director Barbara Weedman.
HCPL Children’s Librarians are connecting with kids through Facebook Live. They host virtual story times featuring stories, rhymes and songs every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 10:30 am. On Tuesdays at 6:30 pm, the library hosts virtual pajama story time.
Weedman says HCPL staff enjoy finding new ways to serve members.
“While they work answering phone calls and questions coming in from our patrons via email, they are also writing blog posts, curating book lists, and creating interactive content for social media and online programs where they interact with the public.”
Members curious about the library services still offered during the closure can visit the HCPL website to get started.
