Beginning Monday, Aug. 28, community members will have even more time to discover what our local libraries have to offer as the Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) returns to normal operating hours. Under the resumed schedule, the library’s eight regional branches will be open Monday–Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Thursday–Sunday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., while it’s 14 community branches will be open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Wednesday–Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Wondering what you can do with all these extra hours to spend at the library? Regular visitors to any of FCPL’s branches will know there is more to the library than just books. Check out a few of the other ways you can get the most out of your local library.
Programming
FCPL branches host a multitude of programs each day. Whether you are looking to join a book club, discover a new craft, skill or language, entertain the little ones with a storytime, or hear from a favorite author, visitors of all ages are sure to find a class or group the library hosts that piques their interests. The library also offers virtual programming for those who want to join in the fun from the comfort of their own homes.
Notable events coming up in the fall include a presentation from cookbook author Laura Kumin on Aug. 26 at the Workhouse Arts Center, a virtual talk with author Victoria Christopher Murray on Sept. 19 and the Local Author Book Festival at Chantilly Regional Library on Sept. 30.
Technology
The library is also a great option for people looking to utilize technological resources they may not have access to at home. For those with computers who need a reliable internet connection, all FCPL branches offer indoor Wi-Fi during operating hours, while 20 branches also provide outdoor Wi-Fi access from their parking lots from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., making them a great place to study, work and connect online with friends and family.
Branches also have computers available for cardholders to use in branch, as well as Connect Kits to check out and take home. Consisting of a Chromebook laptop and a Wi-Fi hotspot, Connect Kits are available at 22 of the 23 branches and can be checked out for two weeks at a time.
Going beyond computers, FCPL offers access to printing and copying machines, as well as 3D printing services. The printing and copying machine are available for cardholders to use for a small fee, while 3D printing submissions are free.
Homework Help
With students going back to school, it’s also a great time to remember FCPL’s resources available to school age children and teens looking for help with their homework. In addition to being a great place to meet and study with their peers, the library provides access to many databases that can assist students in strengthening their academic skills, finding research, studying for AP and college entry exams and even getting one-on-one help with homework from a live tutor. While students must have a standard FCPL library card to access these databases, cards are available for free to anyone who lives, works or studies in Fairfax County.
In addition to our digital resources, several FCPL branches host in-person test prep and tutoring opportunities throughout the year. To see a complete rundown of the library’s homework resources, check out our Homework LibGuide.
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