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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 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
Library Cat Scavenger Hunt 2025 - Find the Cats in the Stacks
Thu, Jul 31, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
Join us for a scavenger hunt for library cats!
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+
Library Cat Scavenger Hunt 2025 - Find the Cats in the Stacks
Fri, Aug 01, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
Join us for a scavenger hunt for library cats!
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.
Writers Group at Beatley
Sun, Aug 03, 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!
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Aug 04, 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, Aug 04, 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, Aug 04, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
We roll at dusk!
Yoga At The Library - with Human Kind Yoga Collective
Mon, Aug 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
This event is full
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Tue, Aug 05, 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.
Sunshine Readers - An outside book club!
Tue, Aug 05, 10:00am - 11:30am
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Outdoors
Let's get some fresh air, explore Old Town, and talk about the latest books we've been reading!
The Stories, Science, and History of Birds - with Smithsonian Biologist Jay Falk
Tue, Aug 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Virtual - Virtual
Delve into the fascinating world of birds through astonishing photography and clear explanations in this absorbing global guide, The Bird Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Birds.Register
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Aug 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. Please call 703-746-1721 to schedule an appointment.
Kiss the Ground - Documentary Screening and Discussion
Tue, Aug 05, 6:00pm - 7:45pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
It's National Farmer's Market Week! Join us for a screening and discussion of the documentary "Kiss the Ground" which looks to climate solutions beneath our feet through regenerative agriculture.
Handcraft Tuesday - Evening Edition
Tue, Aug 05, 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, Aug 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.
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Aug 06, 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.
Making History with Library of Virginia
Wed, Aug 06, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Virtual - Virtual
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
English Language Learning - ELL Classes
Wed, Aug 06, 6:45pm - 7:45pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Drop in Conversational English language learning!
Monthly Meditation - A free ONLINE meditation class open to all levels
Wed, Aug 06, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Zoom
Need some zen to help you wind down after a long day? 🧘‍♀️
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Aug 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. These workshops are led by volunteers and do not include certificates of completion.
Book a Librarian - Applications Assistance
Thu, Aug 07, 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, Aug 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 - "Intermezzo" - by Sally Rooney
Thu, Aug 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 titles chosen by fellow book club members! 📚 ☕
Carefull Knitting - Knitting and Crochet for Good
Thu, Aug 07, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Join Barrett Branch’s knitting and crochet group making items to donate.
Sit & Stitch
Thu, Aug 07, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Stitchers of all kinds and skill levels, join us for a couple hours of stitching and community at Burke Branch Library!
Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group
Thu, Aug 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Teen Area
All crafters are welcome! Ages 13+
VETOGA Weekly Community Yoga (Hatha-Raja) - Level 1 sessions hosted by Adam Shaw
Sat, Aug 09, 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
Upcycled Mini Kit - Upcycle an Altoids tin into an Emergency Kit
Sat, Aug 09, 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Large Meeting Room
Use a variety of craft materials to turn a tin into an emergency or survival kit of your choice.
Handcraft Tuesday - Weekend Edition
Sat, Aug 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!
Board Game Bliss
Sun, Aug 10, 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Let's celebrate the joy of playing games! Play a wide variety of games, the classics and the new. Bring a friend or make new ones.
Senior Bingo
Mon, Aug 11, 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.
This event is full
English Language Learning (ELL)
Mon, Aug 11, 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
Inova Blood Drive
Mon, Aug 11, 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Outdoors
The Inova Blood Donor Services Bloodmobile will visit the Burke Branch Library. Book your appointment to give blood using the link below.
Adults and Dragons - REGISTRATION CLOSED -
Mon, Aug 11, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
We roll at dusk!
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Mon, Aug 11, 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.
Friends of the Duncan Library - Monthly Board Meeting
Mon, Aug 11, 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.
Let's Talk Books - "The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" by Bill Bryson
Mon, Aug 11, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual - Virtual
Please join Let's Talk Books to read and discuss "The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" by Bill Bryson.Register
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Tue, Aug 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. These workshops are led by volunteers and do not include certificates of completion.
Does this Animal Need Help?
Tue, Aug 12, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
The Wildlife Rescue League based in Northern Virginia will share when and how to help (or not) wild animals in our neighborhoods.
Twelve Steps to a Successful Job Search - A Free, Six-Week Asynchronous Course Taken on Your Schedule
Wed, Aug 13, All day
Virtual - Virtual
World-renowned author and career advisor shows you how to get the job you want quickly and easily and in any economy. (Enrollment is for a start on this date, lessons are asynchronous over 6 weeks)Register
Resume Writing Workshop - A Free, Six-Week Asynchronous Course Taken on Your Schedule
Wed, Aug 13, All day
Virtual - Virtual
Discover the secret to transforming your tired, boring resume into a powerful tool that will get you interviews. (Enrollment is for a start on this date, but lessons are asynchronous over six weeks)Register
Computer Skills for the Workplace - A Free, Six-Week Asynchronous Course Taken on Your Schedule
Wed, Aug 13, All day
Virtual - Virtual
Gain a working knowledge of the computer skills you will need to succeed in today's job market. (Enrollment is for a start on this date, but lessons are asynchronous over six weeks)Register
Stitcher's Space - Sew, quilt, knit, crochet, embroider! Every Wednesday!
Wed, Aug 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.
Painternoon - A monthly painting club!
Wed, Aug 13, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Let's paint at the library! Follow along to instructions to create the monthly painting or create your own unique work of art!
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Wed, Aug 13, 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, Aug 13, 6:45pm - 7:45pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Drop in Conversational English language learning!
Modern Job Search Strategies for 2025
Wed, Aug 13, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual - Virtual
Certified Federal Career Coach and Job Search Trainer, Latoyah Saunders will discuss the latest tools available to assist in your job search. Register
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Aug 14, 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, Aug 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.
American Style Mahjong - Learn and Play
Thu, Aug 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. Space is available for up to 12 players, so it's first come first served as game tables fill.
Handcraft Crafternoon
Thu, Aug 14, 3:00pm - 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!
Tai Chi at Beatley Library - Balance Your Mind and Body
Thu, Aug 14, 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.
Dungeons and Dragons: Adult Group! - Adventure awaits!
Thu, Aug 14, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Looking to join a Dungeons and Dragons group? Look no further!
This event is full
Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group
Thu, Aug 14, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
All crafters are welcome! Ages 13+
Duncan Literary Society - Not Your Average Book Club
Thu, Aug 14, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
The Company Of Books 2200 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria, Va 22301
Join us at "The Company of Books", where we discuss what we're currently reading. Bring something to write with, you are always going to leave with a list of things to add to your TBR pile!
See all events
Last updated:  January 2025