Fairfax County Public Library is proud to present its Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Report, and what a year it’s been! From new libraries and expanded services to record-breaking digital checkouts and deeper community partnerships, the library system continues to evolve to meet the needs of more than 1.2 million residents across Fairfax County. This report features highlights and progress made in our strategic plan areas, as well as features the dedicated work of our 500+ staff, volunteers and partners. 

Celebrating a Year of Growth, Innovation and Community Impact: Highlights

Watch highlights from FY2026 below and then read the full report.

A Year of Big Numbers

This year, FCPL welcomed more than 3.4 million in-person visits and supported over 604,000 registered cardholders across its 23 branches. With nearly 12 million items borrowed and another 4 million digital checkouts, our libraries continue to be some of the busiest and most vibrant community spaces in the region. And the value of those services? An impressive $4.57 return on every dollar invested — totaling more than $238 million in benefits to the community.

Opening New Doors: Kingstowne Regional Library Debuts

One of FY2026’s biggest milestones was the grand opening of the new Kingstowne Regional Library at the Franconia Governmental Center. With bright, flexible spaces for kids, teens and adults alike, the 30,000‑square‑foot building has quickly become a favorite destination for learning, gathering and getting inspired.

Meanwhile, renovation planning for George Mason Regional Library is underway, and construction continues on the new Vienna-Carter Library — both projects that will redefine what modern library spaces can be.

Expanding Equity, Access and Inclusive Services

FCPL deepened its commitment to equitable access by expanding assistive technology offerings, earning recognition for its work supporting individuals with disabilities and offering more than 3,000 English language learning programs throughout the year.

The Access Services team also continued to provide Talking Books and home delivery services, ensuring that all community members, regardless of age, ability or mobility, can enjoy the library’s resources.

Technology That Empowers and Inspires

FY2026 saw major gains in digital engagement. FCPL surpassed 4 million digital checkouts for the first time, placing it among the top library systems in the country for eBook, eAudiobook and eMagazine use.

The system’s Maker Labs also had a standout year, offering more than 1,800 creative programs and fulfilling more than 8,000 3D printing requests. Fix-It Clinics returned as well, helping residents repair small appliances, textiles, electronics and more—all while supporting sustainability.

Building a Culture of Literacy

From Early Literacy Outreach programs serving young readers to countywide events such as All Fairfax Reads, FCPL continues to nurture a love of reading at every age. This year’s Summer and Winter Reading Adventures engaged nearly 30,000 participants, while local author events and cultural programs brought the community together through stories, arts and shared experiences.

Partnerships That Strengthen Community

This year marked the launch of a new collaboration with WETA, providing free access to WETA+ streaming content and special event programming.

Through donation drives, outreach efforts during the Culmore Library closure, and partnerships with local nonprofits, FCPL continued to support neighbors experiencing hardship.

Supporting Growth, Opportunity and Connection

Job seekers benefited from expanded career resources, workshops and one-on-one coaching, while Supportive Services offered wellness programs and assistance navigating community resources impacting hundreds of residents.

Powered by Volunteers, Friends and the Fairfax Library Foundation

More than 38,000 volunteer hours and more than $541,000 in support from Friends groups helped make FCPL’s work possible. The Fairfax Library Foundation also provided essential funding for programs, materials, scholarships and the wildly popular Children’s Summer Reading Festival, which welcomed nearly 4,500 attendees in June.

Looking Ahead

As FCPL prepares its next strategic plan (2028–2032) and advances major capital projects, the library system remains committed to being a place where everyone can explore, learn, create and connect. FY2026 was a year of transformation — and it’s just the beginning.