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 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
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
This event is full
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!
This event is full
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!
VETOGA Weekly Community Yoga (Hatha-Raja) - Level 1 sessions hosted by Adam Shaw
Sat, Aug 16, 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
This event is full
Artistic Outlets Creativity Workshop
Sat, Aug 16, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Frank and Betty Wright Reading Garden
Ages 12+. Explore ways to channel your feelings, thoughts, and experiences through different art styles and mediums.
Writers Group at Beatley
Sun, Aug 17, 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!
Alexandria Oddball Cinema - Don’t Read This on a Plane
Sun, Aug 17, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
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!
Alzheimer's Association Caregiver Support Group
Sun, Aug 17, 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, Aug 18, 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
Adults and Dragons - REGISTRATION CLOSED -
Mon, Aug 18, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
We roll at dusk!
English Language Learning (ELL) 2 Workshop - Intermediate Conversation
Mon, Aug 18, 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.
Horror Fans Unite! - A summer horror club!
Mon, Aug 18, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Do you like scary movies, books, tv shows, or video games? Do you enjoy making horror themed DIY projects? This is the event for you!
Yoga At The Library - with Human Kind Yoga Collective
Mon, Aug 18, 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
One-On-One Computer Help - at the Barrett Branch
Tue, Aug 19, 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.
Handcraft Tuesday - Evening Edition
Tue, Aug 19, 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 20, 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 20, 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.
Introduction to Korean Language & Culture
Wed, Aug 20, 6:30pm - 7:45pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Join Byul, a certified educator, for a fun Korean language and culture intro! Perfect for beginners—space is limited, sign up today!
English Language Learning - ELL Classes
Wed, Aug 20, 6:45pm - 7:45pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Drop in Conversational English language learning!
Returning to Romance Through Food and Flirty Fun in Fiction - with Casey McQuiston
Wed, Aug 20, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual - Virtual
Bring an appetite for sizzling drama as we discuss New York Times bestselling author Casey McQuiston's latest romantic comedy, The Pairing. Register
August Artist Adventure
Thu, Aug 21, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
Take Home Kits, available starting August 21 at the Beatley Information Desk.
English Language Learning (ELL) 1 Workshop - Beginner Conversation
Thu, Aug 21, 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 21, 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 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.
Carefull Knitting - Knitting and Crochet for Good
Thu, Aug 21, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
Join Barrett Branch’s knitting and crochet group making items to donate.
Alexandria Oddball Cinema - Date with an Angel
Thu, Aug 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!
Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group
Thu, Aug 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Teen Area
All crafters are welcome! Ages 13+
Life Stories Book Club - "Fox and I" by Catherine Raven
Thu, Aug 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Discuss memoirs and biographies with other book lovers at the Burke Branch Library!
Great Books Foundation Discussion Group - "Even Deadlier: A Sequel to The 7 Deadly Sins Sampler"
Thu, Aug 21, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Virtual - Zoom
Join us on Zoom the third Thursday of each month! We are currently discussing selections from "Even Deadlier: A Sequel to The 7 Deadly Sins Sampler". Click on the event title for more info! Register
August Artist Adventure
Fri, Aug 22, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
Take Home Kits, available starting August 21 at the Beatley Information Desk.
August Artist Adventure
Sat, Aug 23, All day
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library
Take Home Kits, available starting August 21 at the Beatley Information Desk.
Parenting Professional Development Series - Dream Team
Sat, Aug 23, 10:30am - 11:30am
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - Meeting Room
Parenting can be hard enough! Learn to work a bit smarter, not harder, in our monthly Parenting Professional Development Sessions hosted by Carin Andrews, founder of Engaged Training & Consulting
Psychic Development Workshop + Channeling Session - with Del Ray’s Resident Intuitive, Amy
Sat, Aug 23, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library - Beth Patridge Meeting Room
Join us for a workshop on reading and understanding energy. This interactive session offers a safe and supportive space to explore energy awareness, practice intuitive techniques, and ask questions
French Conversation Club
Sat, Aug 23, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library - Story Room
Ages 14+. Develop and exercise your French conversation skills.
This event is full
DIY Birthday Cards - Celebrate Alexandria Library's birthday!
Sat, Aug 23, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - Second Floor
August is Alexandria Library's birthday month, so let's celebrate by making birthday cards!
See all events
Last updated:  January 2025