- Callout to all couples: apply by Jan. 24 to win a wedding, hosted for free by the Friends of the Arlington Public Library, in July 2025.
- 2025 Arlington Reads author talk series to feature a romance-themed, all-star lineup starting with Bridgerton author Julia Quinn.
- “Virginia is for Lovers” LOVEwork sculpture coming to Central Library Jul. 10-16, 2025.
“At Arlington Public Library, we believe in the power of love," said Library Director Diane Kresh. In 2025, library patrons and Arlington residents will be able to enjoy a romance-themed author talk series, apply to win a wedding at Central Library and enjoy a variety of love-centric programs, collections and surprises at the library.
Hear and discuss love at the library
Romance is the theme for the 2025 Arlington Reads series, which will feature five acclaimed authors starting with Julia Quinn (Feb. 13), Curtis Sittenfeld (Apr. 10), Casey McQuiston (Aug. 10) and David and Nicola Yoon (Nov. 6).
According to Publisher’s Weekly, demand for romance novels is booming in the U.S., with sales of print copies surging about 52% in 2022 while overall book sales saw a decline.
A genre largely written by women for women, romance has exploded on the scene to include a wide diversity of authors and stories. The author talk series kicks off with Julia Quinn on February 13, 2025. Quinn is the author of the “Bridgerton” series which has been adapted into one of the most-watched television series by Netflix.
Get married at the library
Couples interested in getting married at the library can apply online by Jan. 24, 2025. You will be asked to answer the question, “Why would you love to get married at the library?” Feel free to be as creative as you wish–your answer can be submitted in written or visual form.
The library is going to pick a very special couple to win a wedding hosted for free by the Friends of the Arlington Public Library. The wedding ceremony will take place in July 2025 and will be viewable by the public; afterwards, the couple will enjoy a private reception with 50 of their closest friends and family at Central Library’s auditorium.
See love at the library
In partnership with the Virginia Tourism Corporation, the library will showcase a large outdoor LOVEwork sculpture on the grounds at Central Library July 10-16, 2025. Patrons and Arlington residents will be able to enjoy the iconic sculpture up close which is part of the Commonwealth’s ‘Virginia is for Lovers’ brand. Come take your selfies with the library’s LOVEwork sculpture and share your library love.
Read more about love
Interested in exploring more about romance? The library offers several romance-themed book lists which include historical, paranormal, suspense and contemporary sub-genres.