Keep kids and teens engaged with online educational tools and activities while schools are closed.
In this time of school closures, expanded online learning and social distancing, your library is here to provide essential resources and online support. We have tons to offer, and it can all be accessed without even leaving your couch.
The library provides access to dozens of online resources to help school-age kids — and adults — stay in the know, research for remote-learning classes, seek homework help, or just engage in fun and educational activities while at home.
Of course, we also have extensive collections of eBooks and eAudiobooks available through Overdrive, Libby and RBdigital. Right now that includes 130 popular titles we’ve added to a special OverDrive list of eBooks and audiobooks available with no holds and no waits (limit 1 per customer at a time, maximum 2-week checkout, no renewals).
Don't have a library card yet? That's okay. Apply here for access to our digital resources.
With Fairfax County Public Schools closed, caretakers and students may want to keep up with learning and incorporate education into their days at home. The public library gives you online access to research materials to complete virtual coursework, support independent studies or simply provide engaging reading content to supplement eBook and audiobook options. Begin with the Education category in our Research Databases list, and dig deeper starting with the examples below — they're just the tip of the iceberg.
Kid's InfoBits meets the research needs of students in Kindergarten through Grade 5 through a graphic interface, a subject search, and full-text, age-appropriate magazines and newspapers on current events, the arts, science, health, people, government, history, sports and more.
NovelList K-8 Plus is a trusted source of read-alike recommendations specifically for younger readers. It helps kids find books that are just right for their reading level and interests.
Scholastic Go! provides credible, accurate, reliable content on almost every core-curricula subject with endless resources for research in a multitude of media. Explore nonfiction texts, world newspapers, videos and more with this easy-to-navigate digital resource designed to strengthen content knowledge, vocabulary, and core proficiency skills.
Middle School and High School
CQ Researcher offers in-depth, non-biased coverage of current issues. Topics range from social and teen issues to the environment, health, education and science and technology. CQ Researcher explores a single "hot" issue each week.
eBook High School Collection (EBSCOhost) offers full text titles with unlimited access designed specifically to support a quality learning experience for High School students across all academic subjects from History, to Language and Literature, to Science & Technology. Also includes ACT and SAT test preparation guides.
Gale In Context: High School is an engaging online experience that merges Gale's authoritative and continuously updated reference content with full-text magazines, academic journals, news articles, primary source documents, images, videos, audio files and links to vetted websites organized into a user-friendly portal experience.
Read It! offers a collection of short informative articles on a variety of topics designed for English Language Learners. Text can be translated into more than 25 different languages or read out loud in English.
Visit our collection of Homework-Related Websites for even more on subjects from general reference, international information and statistics to biographies, current events, economics, personal finance, government, history, languages, literature, math, science, speeches, Virginia and writing.
Tutoring and Test Prep
The Fairfax County Public School system maintains a list of qualified, paid tutors. Email prc@fcps.edu to get the current list and inquire with tutors about virtual tutoring options.
Online practice tests, tutorials and eBooks to prepare for academic tests are available in the LearningExpress Library database.
Gale is currently offering expanded free access to its interdisciplinary, curriculum-aligned resources for pre-K through undergraduate students. You may be prompted to enter these databases with a password. The password for all is "open."
Miss Humblebee's Academy is an interactive kindergarten-readiness program that introduces children ages three to six to key concepts in math, science, social studies, language and literacy, art, and music.
Gale In Context: Middle School combines reference content with age-appropriate videos, newspapers, magazines, primary sources, and more.
Gale In Context: College offers interdisciplinary content that reinforces the development of skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, creativity, and innovation.
Available in library branches and other public Fairfax County Government locations throughout the county, the library’s quarterly publication is designed to help community members make the most of Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) resources and services. Each quarter features a unique theme through which library events, technology, collections, databases, activities and more can be discovered and explored. Full listings of branch events are available online and in each branch.
The spring 2020 issue of Branch Out magazine — covering March-May — focuses on the many ways people can find inspiration and information for refreshing, rejuvenating and restoring their mind, body and environment using the library’s resources, services and programs.
Let Springtime Inspire Renewal in All Facets of Life
Explore self-renewal, renewable resources, seasonal family activities and more with your library.
Spring Sunshine and Science
With added daylight giving us time to get more things done, warmer temperatures encouraging outdoor pursuits, stronger sunlight to help us soak up vitamin D for healthy bones and immune and nervous systems, and blooming flowers offering proven happiness-boosting benefits, it’s no wonder we feel revitalized, re-energized and rejuvenated in the spring. Even though we can pursue renewal, growth and development at any time throughout the year, the earth’s season of rebirth seems to give us extra energy and motivation to get active, take action and create change.
Studies have shown that the longer the sun is up during the day and the more time we spend outdoors, the less mental distress and the more creativity we experience. Plus, if your new year’s resolution involved fitness goals, research indicates that people who work out outdoors enjoy the experience more and therefore are more likely to repeat it — so springing into some fresh air activity might help you stick with your exercise regimen. And while taking walks in nature at any time of the year has proven to slow the heart rate and promote relaxation, some research suggests that spring has an even greater effect on the brain. A 2005 study from the University of Michigan linked spending 30 minutes or more outside in warm, sunny spring weather to higher mood and better memory.
Renew More Than Books
Capitalize on this springtime surge of energy and optimism; don’t limit your renewal to only checked-out materials or typical “spring cleaning.” Reengage your mind with self-improvement, mental health, career-oriented and educational resources at the library. Refresh your home and garden with our books on decluttering, framed art lending library and Master Gardener workshops. Recommit to eco-friendly living through upcycling events and zero-waste ideas. Reactivate your body and reach health and fitness goals with StoryWalks, workout DVDs and in-branch classes.
Whichever facets of your life you’re inspired to renew this spring, let the library help you learn the why’s and how’s of pursuing those goals — or help you discover new ideas to explore. Read through this issue of Branch Out to learn about the clubs, programs, materials and other opportunities available to support renewal of your mind, body, environment and more, now and in all seasons of life.
Renewal Resources
Throughout the magazine we share many ways you can renew passions, find new ones, jump start creativity, discover new perspectives, learn new skills and more using library resources — starting with the options listed here.
Newspapers
Replenish your news and current events awareness. The library’s US Major Dailies database provides free access to the five most respected U.S. national and regional newspapers, including The New York Times and Washington Post, co-exclusive access to The Wall Street Journal and exclusive access to the Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune. Visit search.proquest.com to start reading.
Career and Business
If your 2020 goals include career growth or business projects, the library’s research guides are a great place to start your planning and preparation:
Visit the Job Seekers and Business guides to find collections of resources for job-hunting, skill development, test prep, industry insights, market research, grant opportunities and more.
The Tax Information guide will help you navigate that process and ensure you can focus more time and energy elsewhere this spring.
Home and Auto
Got renovations or repairs on your to do list? Do it yourself with the help of the library’s Home Improvement Reference Center and AutoMate databases. Home Improvement Reference Center offers information and instructions — including how-to videos and full-text selections from books and magazines — on home improvement and repair projects including plumbing, wiring, painting and decorating. AutoMate provides DIY car repair info on most makes and models as far back as 1954, including manuals, service bulletins and diagrams.
Throughout 2020 Fairfax County Public Library’s “Common Ground” campaign will explore the concepts of community, civic engagement and American politics to help county residents rediscover that we have more in common with each other than we realize.
“The country is currently focused on ideological differences rather than the many values that we share. The library is for the entire community and encourages civil discussion on tough topics,” said Library Director Jessica Hudson. “We invite the entire Fairfax community to join us to remember how to listen to differing viewpoints and look for the common ground, which is almost always there.”
Four system-wide events are the core of the campaign, with library branches planning localized lectures and workshops. Selected books, articles, databases and websites will be shared throughout the year to enhance the exploration of issues on which community members and Americans in general can find common ground. Registration is appreciated for all events.
Making Sense of the Census (postponed) Chris Martin, historian at the U.S. Census Bureau, will share surprising stories of the census’ past, from the impact of the Civil War to the challenges of early computer systems. Count on a revealing look at the why’s and how’s of accounting for the nation’s population.
A Political Party (postponed) Bill Schneider, a U.S. political analyst dubbed “the nation’s electionmeister” by The Washington Times, will provide an overview of the major U.S. political parties. No cakes or lampshades required.
The Electoral College: Necessity or Nuisance? Thursday, May 14, 7 p.m. at Kings Park Library. Dr. Jeremy Mayer, associate professor in the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, will demystify the electoral college and explain its role in U.S. elections.
Redistricting, or Why is My Congressional District Shaped Like a Seahorse? June (date and location TBD) This workshop will focus on the complexities of redistricting: What is it? Who draws the lines? When does it happen? Why is it such a big deal?
To find more Common Ground events filter by the “Common Ground” category in the library calendar.
Honor and explore the pasts, presents and futures of African Americans with free library programs and events.
During Black History Month, which is celebrated in February, and beyond, Fairfax County Public Library branches are hosting free events and programs for all ages that highlight and explore the deep and diverse history and invaluable contributions and achievements of African Americans. From author talks and history lectures to movies, performances and more, a wide range of programs are taking place throughout the next few months. Plus, February's Outstanding Reads recommendations from our Collections staff focus on Black authors and stories — read them on FairfaxTimes.com.
Check out the highlights of the schedule below. Asterisk (*) indicates registration required. For a full list of events, view the library’s online calendar.
Consider the Census
As the 2020 census approaches, the library is focusing on the importance of census records not only to determining funding for our public institutions, but also to tracing family histories — including those of African Americans. Visit the library’s Virginia Room, located in the City of Fairfax Regional Library, to discover historic photographs and census records of African American residents of the county.
The Virginia Room maintains a collection—including maps, an extensive photographic archive, local newspapers and yearbooks, manuscript collections and rare books—documenting the historical record of the people, associations, events and places of Fairfax County, Virginia. Researchers can also use print holdings and online databases to research genealogy from all 50 states.
Find booklists for African American family and cultural history in our genealogy research guide.
Free Library Events Begin the '20s with Celebrations and Observations of Culture and Community.
With a new year and a new decade underway, what better time is there to embrace new opportunities to expand ourselves and our communities, explore the lives and perspectives of others and emphasize the values and experiences we have in common?
Through holiday celebrations, guided conversations, educational lectures, social gatherings and more, events at Fairfax County Public Library this January-March do just that. Join us to start 2020 off on the right foot… and maybe learn something new by stepping into someone else’s shoes.
All are welcome at the library, and all our programs are free. Find highlights of events offering a wide variety of cultural engagement and enrichment below and visit the online calendar for a full list. Asterisk (*) indicates registration required.
Chinese Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year Festival Saturday, January 25, 3 p.m. at Dolley Madison Library
Join the Dolley Madison Teen Advisory Board for a celebration of the Lunar New Year. All ages.
Chinese New Year: The Year of the Rat Saturday, January 25, 10 a.m. at Patrick Henry Library
Enjoy crafts, foods and fun for all ages in celebration of the Lunar New Year. Join the library and the Northern Virginia Experimental Chinese School for special performances and games, including guzheng music, folk dances, tai chi and yo-yo.
Celebrate the Chinese New Year Saturday, January 25, 1 p.m. at Richard Byrd Library
Welcome the Year of the Rat with crafts and activities. All ages.
Saturday, February 1 10:30 a.m. at Burke Centre Library
1 p.m. at Chantilly Regional Library
3 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Library
Saturday, February 8 10:30 a.m. at Lorton Library
1 p.m. at Kings Park Library
3 p.m. at Oakton Library
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Lion Dance performances that will demonstrate emotions such as fright, anger, grace and joy through movement in rhythm to the music of a drum, gong and cymbals. All ages.
American Past, Present and Future
World War I: Lessons and Legacies | Posters from the Smithsonian* Through February 25 at Patrick Henry Library
In honor of America's entry into "The War to End All Wars" in 1917, the Smithsonian’s poster exhibition World War I: Lessons and Legacies explores The Great War and its lasting impact and far-reaching influence on American life. The war led to pivotal changes in America's culture, technology, economy and role in the world. It redefined how we saw ourselves as Americans, and its legacy continues today. The posters displayed in the branch’s meeting room are available for viewing when the room is not in active use for another program. Call the branch or check at the information desk for times. Adults.
American Creed Community Conversation Sunday, February 16, 2 p.m. at Pohick Regional Library
American Creed Community Conversations center around the PBS documentary “AMERICAN CREED” featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David M. Kennedy and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice coming together from different points of view to explore ideals of freedom, fairness and opportunity. The film screening will be accompanied by scholar-facilitated discussion designed to foster respectful dialogue about American ideals and identity across all types of deepening divides. Supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities. Adults and teens.
Get to Know Your Muslim Neighbor Saturday, February 29, 11 a.m. at Reston Regional Library
Meet new friends, celebrate diversity and learn about the culture and history of this community with discussions and a poster exhibit, Forgotten History: Muslims & Early America. Plus, enjoy hands-on activities, including calligraphy and henna, and sample international delicacies with a cup of coffee. All ages.
Citizenship Classes and Ceremonies See calendar for dates and times at various branches
Classes focus on topics such as American history, government and culture using library, USCIS and other resources.
Exploring Religion
International Hijab Day Saturday, February 1, 11 a.m. at Reston Regional Library
Learn about the symbolism of the hijab and why Muslim women wear it. Then try one on, try your hand at Arabic calligraphy and enjoy snacks. Presented in partnership with the Islamic Circle of North America. All ages.
PJ Library Book Buddies Storytime* Thursdays, monthly, 10:30 a.m. at Chantilly Regional Library
All moms, dads, grandparents, caregivers and children who love books are invited for stories and fun that relate to Jewish culture traditions and holidays. Enjoy movement and crafts along with stories. Ages 2 1/2 - 5 years with caregiver. Siblings welcome.
PJ Library Book Buddies* Wednesdays, monthly, 10:30 a.m. at City of Fairfax Regional Library
Enjoy storybooks and crafts about Jewish holidays and values. Cosponsored by PJ Library and Growing Jewish Families of the JCC of Northern Virginia. Age 6 months - 5 years with adult.
The World's Religions: Seven-Part Series Sundays, February 16-March 29, 2:30 p.m. at Centreville Regional Library
Learn about the beliefs, values and practices of major world religions. Laura Shulman, Professor of Religion at Northern Virginia Community College, will present this seven-part series. Each session will include a lecture, Q&A and additional resources. Sessions: Judaism (1 of 7), Christianity (2 of 7), Islam (3 of 7), Hinduism (4 of 7), Buddhism (5 of 7), Sikhism (6 of 7) and Baha'i Faith (7 of 7). Adults and teens.
A World of Perspectives
Passport to Fun* Fridays, monthly, 4:30 p.m. at Chantilly Regional Library
Travel the world exploring different languages and cultures through crafts and games with the Chantilly High School Language Honor Societies. For students in grades 1-6.
Meet Henry Brinton, Author of City of Peace Saturday, February 29, 2 p.m. at Oakton Library
City of Peace is a gripping murder mystery about a Methodist minister who is forced to confront his own demons and help his followers overcome today’s prejudices that divide people of differing cultures and faiths. Adults.
Women in Jazz* Tuesday, March 3, 7 p.m. at Reston Regional Library
Experience the history of women in jazz through lecture, trivia and live performance. Presented by master flutist Galen Abdur-Razzaq. Adults.
Autodidactics Discussion Group: Collaborative Self-teaching on Diverse Topics Thursday, March 5, 1 p.m. at City of Fairfax Regional Library
Join a group of curious learners in a wide-ranging discussion of themed topics. Quarterly themes are the chosen, with specific topics explored in depth each month in a friendly, collaborative learning group. March's discussion will focus on “family” and the meaning of family across cultures and time. Adults.
Meet Shabnam Curtis, Author of My Persian Paradox Tuesday, March 24, 7:30 p.m. at Patrick Henry Library
Shabnam Curtis’s My Persian Paradox: Memories of an Iranian Girl opens in 1978 when the Iranian Revolution began and ends in 2004 when the author left Iran for America. It is the story of an ordinary Iranian girl who, like millions of other girls, was confused but tried to make sense of the oppression of the regime and the rigid structure of the male-dominant culture and still pursued the dream of freedom. Books available for sale and signing. Adults.
Top 25 public library system worldwide in total digital circulation
Fairfax County Public Library reached a new milestone in 2019, achieving a record-breaking two million digital book checkouts in one year. This accomplishment illustrates the continued growth and importance of library lending of eBooks and audiobooks along with the creative ways the library has served its community with digital services. Fairfax County Public Library is one of only 73 systems around the world that surpassed one million checkouts in one year through Rakuten OverDrive (complete list here).
“FCPL is thrilled to reach 2 million checkouts for our digital library,” said Dianne Coan, Technical Operations Director at Fairfax County Public Library. "Hitting this milestone is a reflection of both our selection staff’s knowledge of our community and the voracious reading habits of that community! The library has such an amazing and supportive readership who provides feedback and suggestions regularly. We are honored to be among the few libraries in North America to reach this level of use.”
Fairfax County Public Library has been providing readers 24/7 access to eBooks and audiobooks for nearly 15 years. Reader interest and usage has grown every year, reflecting popular trends and interests both locally and across the country. In the last decade, the highest-circulating title across both formats that Fairfax County Public Library readers borrowed through OverDrive was The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. The top-circulating genre, thrillers, represents the most popular in a vast catalog that also includes romance, fantasy, children and young adult.
The top 5 eBook titles borrowed through Fairfax County Public Library's digital collection in 2019:
Readers in Fairfax County just need a valid library card to access digital books from Fairfax County Public Library’s OverDrive-powered digital collection. Readers can use any major device, including iPhone®, iPad®, Android™ and Windows®. With OverDrive’s Libby app, readers can also “send to Kindle®” devices and apps (US only). All titles will automatically expire at the end of the lending period and there are no late fees. Readers can also download titles onto Libby for offline use.
Also in 2019, Fairfax County Public Library introduced its new instant-access eAudiobook collection offered by RBdigital. This acquisition includes more than 34,000 always available, no waiting eAudiobooks for readers of all ages.
Visit fairfax.overdrive.com or download the Libby app to get started and borrow ebooks and audiobooks anytime, anywhere.
Due to new restrictions on libraries’ purchase of eBooks and eAudiobooks produced by Macmillan Publishing, the Fairfax County Public Library stopped purchasing eMaterials from Macmillan and its imprints November 1.
The Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) is the 17th largest library, by circulation, in the United States according to the American Library Association. When FCPL’s eBook collection via Overdrive surpasses 2 million annual downloads this year, as predicted, it will be one of only about 20 libraries in the country to do so.
Macmillan Publishing began limiting library access to its eBooks and eAudiobooks on November 1 by:
Restricting libraries to the purchase of a single electronic copy of a title for the first 60 days after publication, regardless of the number of people the library system serves or the number of library branches in the system.
Allowing libraries to purchase additional copies of the title after the embargo at inflated prices.
Limiting the lifespan of these copies to two years, after which libraries must either re-purchase them at full price or lose access to them.
The decision to stop purchasing eBooks and eAudiobooks from Macmillan was “not a decision we made lightly,” Library Director Jessica Hudson said. “But this new eBook policy unfairly impacts selected populations in the county and would have a significant negative impact on the library’s purchasing abilities by requiring us to spend additional funds on one format per title.”
Digital material has changed the reading landscape over the last few years. The ability to manipulate font size and choose fonts has helped readers with vision loss and dyslexia. Library materials also provide equal opportunity for low income residents. The new restrictions impact the library’s ability to offer equal access to information for all.
“We understand publishing is a business, and it’s not our objective to tell businesses how they can and should profit; however, libraries already pay higher costs than the general public, Hudson said. “The new policies would have increased the costs exorbitantly for titles under Macmillan, so our decision allows us to use those funds to expand the library’s collection where our dollar goes further. We have a duty to make taxpayer dollars go as far as possible in serving our over 400,000 cardholders.”
FCPL will continue to purchase Macmillan titles in print and on compact disc, as federal law protects sales to libraries in those formats.
FCPL joins many public libraries nationwide that have elected not to purchase eMaterials from Macmillan including
Arkansas Digital Library Consortium (AR)
Charleston County Public Library (SC)
Columbus Metropolitan Library (OH)
Des Moines Public Library (IA)
King County Library System (WA)
eLibraryNJ (NJ)
Multnomah County Library (OR)
Nashville Public Library (TN)
Reading Library District (PA)
Topeka andShawnee County Public Library (KS)
Yolo County Library (CA)
More information about library responses and impacts can be found on the American Library Association website, including the eBooks For All petition currently supported by nearly a quarter million signatures.
The new books are part of a special “World Languages Bags” collection.
Worried about reading to children in your native language? Don’t be. It is easy for children to learn to read, write and speak English if they have a strong foundation in any language. For adults who may be more comfortable reading to children in Arabic, Chinese, Urdu or Tamil, the library offers World Languages Bags, a project funded by the Fairfax Library Foundation, Friends groups and other community donations. These bags are available with picture books, board books and easy readers. Each bag contains eight books that adults can read again and again to and with children. The library’s collection already supports children and adult books in Spanish, Korean and Vietnamese.
“The library is committed to ensuring residents in Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax have equitable access to library materials,” said Dianne Coan, Director of Operations for the library. “By starting with early literacy materials, including bi-lingual books, the new World Languages Bags support parents, grandparents and caregivers who want to read to young children — a proven strategy for ensuring children are ready to read by the time they enter kindergarten.”
The library’s 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program encourages families to read 1,000 books to children before they start elementary school. Studies show the more vocabulary and oral language children have, the better prepared they are to learn how to read and write when they enter kindergarten.
Instructions for placing a hold on the World Languages Bags in the library’s new catalog:
Type in “picture book bag” on the search bar next to “Keyword search” at the top of the page. Then click the search icon.
The picture books will populate the page. Choose the language you are interested in under “subjects” on the left side of the screen.
Select “PLACE HOLD” to the right of the picture book bag you want.
Follow the directions to enter your user information, password and the library branch where you’d like to pick up the book bag.
If you need additional assistance, please ask at the library information desk where staff are happy to connect you with the World Languages Bags in your preferred language.
As the temperatures outside drop, head to your library for fun indoor activities to keep your hands warm and your creativity flowing — and maybe even DIY a few gifts to start crossing names off your holiday shopping list! From social gatherings and jewelry making to DIY wrapping paper, ornaments and more, many branches have crafting projects and events for kids and adults alike taking place throughout the season. See the full, up-to-date list of events in the library calendar, and check out some crafting highlights below. Asterisk (*) indicates registration required.
Learn, Make and Take
Handcraft Club Open House Monday, November 18, 7 p.m. at Oakton
Drop in anytime and bring your favorite handcrafting project or start a new one. Learn from other handcrafters about skills like crocheting, knitting, weaving, and jewelry making. Beginners welcome. Teens-adults.
Make and Take* Wednesdays, Nov. 20 and Dec. 18, 5 p.m., and Monday, Dec. 23, 2:30 p.m. at City of Fairfax Regional
Reuse materials and craft supplies to make your own unique masterpiece. Age 6-12.
Let's Fly Away!* Wednesday, November 20, 4:30 p.m. at Sherwood
Make some paper airplanes and learn about flying. Grades 4-8.
Make Your Own Pet Rock Wednesday, November 20, 4:30 p.m. at George Mason Regional
Transform an ordinary rock into a book character like Dog Man or Harry Potter, or make a one-of-a-kind pet. Supplies provided. Ages 6-12.
Treat Yo'Self 101: DIY Lip Balm* Friday, November 22, 5 p.m. at Sherwood
As part of the teen Treat Yo'Self 101 series, you'll learn how to make your own lip balm using a few simple ingredients and a microwave. Grades 7-12.
Saturday Crafterday: Marimo Moss Jars Saturday, November 23, 2 p.m. at John Marshall
Make your own terrarium with Marimo moss (while supplies last). Adults and teens.
Crafternoon Wednesday, November 27, 3 p.m. at Patrick Henry
Don't spend your day off from school moping around at home — head to the library to make crafts galore. We'll provide the supplies and space, you provide the creativity. All ages.
Handcraft Club Speaker Series: Toothbrush Rug Braiding Tuesday, November 26, 6:30 p.m. at Herndon Fortnightly
Learn the art of making a Toothbrush Rug using an old Scandinavian technique. Feel free to bring your own lightweight fabric and scissors or use what we have available. The fabric will be torn into 1-inch strips and pieced together and you will leave with coaster. Adults.
Passport to Fun* Friday, December 6, 4:30 p.m. at Chantilly Regional
Travel the world exploring different languages and cultures through crafts and games with the Chantilly High School Language Honor Societies. Grades 1-6.
Crafternoon Saturday, December 7, 2:30 p.m. at Dolley Madison
Make and take a unique statement necklace that is as fun to make as it is to wear. Space is limited. Adults and teens.
Make a Gift with Perler Beads Saturday, December 7, 2:30 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson
Create key chains and magnets of your own design out of Perler beads. Teens.
Pottery with Clay Cafe Studios* Saturday, December 7, 2:30 p.m. at George Mason Regional
Make a mug for yourself or as a gift in this pottery workshop by Clay Cafe Studios. Kids will be given a 30-ounce mug that they can decorate. Grades 3-6.
Jewelry Making* Monday, December 9, 7 p.m. at Reston Regional
Tania Ebrahimian will teach the basics of jewelry making and participants will create an original piece in this hands-on workshop. The library will provide the materials. Adults.
Saturday Crafterday: Paper Circuit Cards Saturday, December 21, 2 p.m. at John Marshall
Make your own light-up card with copper tape and LED lights. Supplies provided. Adults and teens.
Stories and Crafts
PJ Library Book Buddies* Wednesdays, Nov. 13 and Dec. 11, 10:30 a.m. at City of Fairfax Regional
Enjoy storybooks and crafts about Jewish holidays and values. Cosponsored by PJ Library and Growing Jewish Families of the JCC of Northern Virginia. Age 6 months to 5 years with adult.
The Snow Queen Celebration Saturday, November 16, 2 p.m. at Pohick Regional
Celebrate Hans Christian Anderson's epic tale, "The Snow Queen" — the inspiration for many frozen princesses and snowmen — with storytelling, treats, crafts and games. Costumes encouraged. All ages.
Stories and More* Tuesdays, Nov. 19, Dec. 3 and Dec. 17, 10:30 a.m., at Martha Washington
Fun with stories, crafts and activities for preschoolers. Age 3-5 with adult.
Toddler Storytime Tuesday, Nov. 26 and Dec. 10, 10:30 a.m. at Woodrow Wilson
An interactive storytime for toddlers with songs and a craft. Age 18 months to 3 years with adult.
Pajama Party Storytime Tuesday, November 26, 6:30 p.m. at Herndon Fortnightly
Wear your pajamas, listen to bedtime stories and make a simple craft. All ages.
PJ Library Book Buddies Storytime* Thursday, December 5, 10:30 a.m. at Chantilly Regional
Enjoy stories and fun with movement and crafts that relate to Jewish culture traditions and holidays. Age 2.5 to 5 with caregiver. Siblings welcome.
Hang Out and Create
Maker Table During open hours at Chantilly Regional
Create, Invent and Learn: Visit the Maker Table behind the Information Desk for self-directed projects that change each month. STEAM activities often included. Supplies provided. All ages.
Teen Chill Zone Thursday, November 21, 3:30 p.m. at Centreville Regional
Take a break from homework and hang out at the library. Grab a snack, try some relaxing crafts and activities and chat with other teens. Grades 7-12.
Teen Chill Zone: Virtual Reality Thursday, November 21, 4:30 p.m. at Chantilly Regional
Feeling stressed out? Take a break at the library! This month there will be Virtual Reality and Google Cardboard sets available to play around on, plus the usual board games, relaxing crafty activities and snacks. Come with a friend, or meet some new ones. Grades 7-12.
Craft and Chat Thursdays, Nov. 21 and Dec. 19, 7 p.m. at Kings Park
Work on your favorite craft or try out a new one in a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. Refreshments served. Adults.
Teen Chill Zone Fridays, Nov. 22 and Dec. 20, 4:30 p.m. at City of Fairfax Regional
Head to the library to hang out, play games or do a craft activity. Age 13-18.
Celebrate the Season
Adult Holiday Craft Event: Book Folding* Saturday, November 23, 1:30 p.m. at Herndon Fortnightly
Make and take a tree or heart using donated books; they're perfect for a holiday decorating. Adults.
Family Winter Wonderland Saturday, December 7, 11:00 a.m. at Lorton
Celebrate the start of winter with winter-themed crafts and games. Light refreshments provided. All ages.
Holiday Open House Saturday, December 7, 1-4 p.m. at Great Falls
Enjoy festive musical performances by the Langley High School Madrigals, crafts for kids and adults, holiday games and seasonal treats. All ages.
Adult Craft Night: Light Up Holiday Cards* Thursday, December 12, 7 p.m. at Martha Washington
Create a unique holiday card that lights up. All supplies provided. Adults.
Wheel of the Year: Yule Saturday, December 14, 3 p.m. at John Marshall
It's the shortest day and longest night. Make a craft with us to celebrate the yuletide. Supplies provided. Adults.
Noon Years Eve Party Tuesday, December 31, 11 a.m. at Kingstowne
Celebrate the New Year with arts and crafts and a countdown to noon. All ages.
Holiday Bookmarks Tuesdays, December 3 and 10, 7 p.m. at Woodrow Wilson
Make colorful, glittery, festive bookmarks, celebrating any holiday or event of your choice. All ages.
DIY: Holiday Ornament Making Friday, December 6, 1 p.m. at Reston Regional
Make and take home personalized holiday ornaments. All materials are provided. Adults.
Holiday Gifts Make and Take Thursday, Dec. 12, 4:30 p.m., and Tuesday, Dec. 17, 3:30 p.m. at John Marshall
Make a gift for someone special or even for yourself. Ages 5-11 with Adult.
Make Your Own Wrapping Paper Saturday, December 14, 10 a.m. at Thomas Jefferson
Get artistic this year and create your own wrapping paper. Transform plain white butcher paper into personalized gift wrap using crayons, markers, stickers, glitter and more. All ages.
Knitting
Chantilly Knitting Club Tuesdays, Nov. 19 and Dec. 17, 7 p.m. at Chantilly Regional
Bring your knitting or other crafting projects. Share tips and enjoy conversation. No formal instruction, but chances are someone in the group can teach you to knit, or help you when you get stuck on a project. Adults.
Yarn-aholics Wednesday, December 4, 7 p.m. at George Mason Regional
Calling all knitters and crocheters: join fellow yarn-aholics to discuss, learn and share ideas and projects. Teens and adults.
Knitting Group for All Monday, December 9, 1 p.m. at Patrick Henry
Bring your knitting projects, share tips and enjoy conversation. Adults.
Twisted Stitchers Tuesday, December 10, 7 p.m. at Burke Centre
Get together to knit, crochet, loom or craft while meeting new people. We make items for ourselves as well as items for donation to charity groups. Adults.
Knit 2Gether Tuesday, December 17, 7 p.m. at Centreville Regional
Bring your knitting projects, share tips and enjoy conversation. Adults.
According to a consumer survey, 74 percent of audiobook consumers listen in their car. Residents know what traffic can be like around the county and, though the library cannot do much about that, we can certainly help on the audiobook front.
RBdigital Unlimited
On May 1, Fairfax County Public Library introduced RBdigital Unlimited—its new instant access eAudiobook collection. This acquisition includes more than 28,000 always available, no waiting eAudiobooks for readers of all ages. You can find the new titles mixed in with all the other material available from RBdigital.
Last year, Fairfax County readers checked out more than 1.7 million eBooks/eAudiobooks from the library. Readers also placed over 790,000 holds for digital copies. The library recognized waiting for eAudiobooks was a growing pain point and continued to look for ways to add to the collection while staying within the system’s budget for materials.
Enter RBdigital Unlimited. This new offering provides instant access to eAudiobooks—no holds, no waiting. This acquisition is made up entirely of eAudiobooks from five publishers (Recorded Books, Tantor Media, Christian Audio, Gildan Media, and HighBridge Audio) and are twelve months old or more. So, while waiting on hold for a library eAudiobook released last week, you can find something of interest available right now.
Sample titles from the new collection include:
An American Marriage (Tayari Jones),
The Overstory (Richard Powers, 2019 Pulitzer),
Outlander (Diana Gabaldon),
Night (Elie Wiesel),
Prey / Lucas Davenport series (John Sandford),
Alex Rider series (Anthony Horowitz),
As well as many titles by authors like Garrison Keillor, Harry Turtledove, Walter Dean Meyers, Mercedes Lackey, Meg Cabot, Avi, Beverly Jenkins, Joanne Fluke, and so many others.
The library works with multiple vendors for books and audiobooks, both print and digital. Many Fairfax County Public Library card holders are already familiar with OverDrive, and RBdigital is another digital vendor. Content in the RBdigital app comes from both the Library of Virginia and selections by Fairfax County library staff. It includes eMagazines, digital Great Courses, eBooks, eAudiobooks, and now also the instant access eAudiobooks.
See all 28,000 newly added eAudiobooks on the RBdigital app, and start enjoying wait-free reading today!
Available in library branches and other public Fairfax County Government locations throughout the county, the library’s quarterly publication is designed to help community members make the most of Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) resources and services. Each quarter features a unique theme through which library events, technology, collections, databases, activities and more can be discovered and explored. 
Studies have shown that the longer the sun is up during the day and the more time we spend outdoors, the less mental distress and the more creativity we experience. Plus, if your new year’s resolution involved fitness goals, research indicates that people who work out outdoors enjoy the experience more and therefore are more likely to repeat it — so springing into some fresh air activity might help you stick with your exercise regimen. And while taking walks in nature at any time of the year has proven to slow the heart rate and promote relaxation, some research suggests that spring has an even greater effect on the brain. A 2005 study from the University of Michigan linked spending 30 minutes or more outside in warm, sunny spring weather to higher mood and better memory.
