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Arlington Public Library

Director's Blog

Too Cool For Yule #18

As we (finally) reach the home stretch of 2025, it is time for the annual release of Arlington Public Library’s “Too Cool for Yule” playlist. Take a beat, press pause and reset. Whatever reflection and chill look like to you, let Arlington Public Library provide the score.

A couple of musical notes about the selections we’ve included.

Tom Lehrer, the brilliant satirist died this year at the age of 97. Those of us of a certain age will remember his ingenious topical takes on full display in songs like “Vatican Rag,” “Hanukkah in Santa Monica,” and many others. Pure genius.

Since I began this list 18 years ago, I never fail to include a cover of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” first introduced by the incomparable Judy Garland in the 1944 cinematic classic “Meet Me in St. Louis.” Frank Sinatra serves it up here with his impeccable phrasing and rhythm. Sublime.

We close the playlist with the Staple Singers’ version of “Will the Circle be Unbroken.” A tune first penned in 1907, and later popularized by the Carter Family and the 1960’s Nitty Gritty Dirt Band--when I first heard the tune as a tribute. The lyrics speak to our fractured times and the promise of better days. And don’t we all need a little hope for better days right now.

So, brew a cup, raise a glass, relax with loved ones and hit play. Let this playlist serve as a reminder that Arlington Public Library is always free. Always open. Always listening.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director
Arlington Public Library

Director’s Message: We’re Not Going Anywhere

Library Director Diane Kresh talking to a FOAL book sale customer.
Library Director Diane Kresh talking to a FOAL book sale customer.

Friday, Oct. 24, was the first full day of our twice-yearly Friends of the Arlington Public Library (FOAL) used book sale, and Arlington’s longest running "recycling" program. I just ended my morning shift having rung up scores of shoppers who exited the library garage, weighted down by bags of books. I met young adults, older adults, retirees, babies, teachers, librarians and some furloughed federal employees who found themselves, sadly, with time on their hands.

FOAL book sale shoppers browsing the used books collection.
FOAL book sale shoppers browsing the used books collection.

All of them united by a love of books and reading.

The book sale is one of my favorite library events. A chance for me and the staff to engage with residents and patrons we might not usually see and whose generosity we depend on. Every penny that is earned by the book sales goes back to the library to pay for author talks, game nights, summer and winter reading challenges, equipment for The Shop and more.

Everything you can think of to keep our community educated, entertained and engaged.

Volunteer signaling to a book sale customer to check out.
Volunteer signaling to a book sale customer to check out.
Shoppers can find unbeatable deals on books, games, puzzles and more.
Shoppers can find unbeatable deals on books, games, puzzles and more.

As I worked the sale I talked with job seekers, home schoolers, young families and students. Many in our community are struggling. Costs of goods and unemployment are rising. Businesses are closing including Pirouette, across the street from Central Library and a warm and welcoming place to gather after a library event. There is no end in sight for the government shutdown and there is a lot of uncertainty and fears of what might come next.

One thing you can be sure of: Arlington Public Library is not going anywhere. Our doors are still open for reference help, quiet study, meeting friends or making new ones at our jigsaw puzzle tables.

If you haven’t stepped through our doors in a while, please do. If you’re a regular, thank you. We are all in this together.

Always Free. Always Open. Always Dependable.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director, Arlington Public Library

MUSICAL CODA

Director’s Message: Collections Updates

A woman browses books in a brightly lit aisle at Arlington Public Library, pulling a hardcover from the shelf while reading the back cover. Books fill the shelves around her in a well-organized collection.

Arlington Public Library’s collections budget is decreasing 21% in Fiscal Year 2026. The library will continue to build and sustain a collection that fully serves the reading and educational needs of Arlington residents. However, patrons may notice some changes starting July 1 including:

  • An increase in wait times on the most popular titles, both for print and digital collections.
  • For digital collections, wait times will increase to up to 35 weeks or longer.
  • The library’s eBook “Grab and Go” collection will be discontinued for FY 2026. The print “Grab and Go” collection will still be available.

Changes to Streaming Services

A person wearing headphones sits at a table in Arlington Public Library, browsing the Biblio+ streaming service on a laptop. The screen displays the homepage featuring the film The Bookshop and a tagline that reads “a library of entertainment at your fingertips.”

Starting July 1, Arlington Public Library is moving to two new streaming services. To provide similar breadth and quality of content while offering better value and long-term sustainability, the Library is discontinuing Kanopy and adding two new streaming options:

Biblio+

  • Curated and growing selection of independent films, documentaries, TV series (including BBC content) and children’s programming
  • Accessible on all devices; unlimited, ad-free access

Access Video

  • Over 30,000 educational and entertainment videos
  • Content providers include PBS, HBO, National Geographic, TED Talks and more
  • Unlimited, ad-free access for patrons; accessible on all devices
Screenshot of the Access Video streaming service homepage, featuring a banner for the show “Brain Games” and logos of featured producers including ABC, Green Planet Films, National Geographic, A&E Networks, PBS, and HBO. Below are carousels of Staff Picks and AVOD exclusives with program thumbnails such as The Weight of the Nation, The Story of God with Morgan Freeman, and Years of Living Dangerously.

The staff of Arlington Public Library remains committed to providing the highest levels of library service to ensure patrons can read what they want, when they want and however they want. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us over the next year as we manage these changes to our collection.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director, Arlington Public Library

Director’s Message: Taking Pride in Stride

WorldPride 2025 is in full swing and Arlington County is all-in. Hosted by Washington, D.C.'s Capital Pride Alliance, WorldPride offers a gazillion opportunities from May 17 through June 8 to enjoy music, art and fellowship.

The event is expected to attract nearly 3 million visitors to our area—a great chance to showcase Arlington’s strong commitment to inclusivity.

A new Pride banner at Central Library's east entrance.

The County took the festival to the next level with its Show Your Pride events held May 16 and 17 with a Block Party celebrating an installation from projection artist Robin Bell and a forthcoming work from muralist Lisa Marie Thalhammer.

Left: installation by projection artist Robin Bell (Photo: Sora Yamahira / Bellvisuals.com). Right: digital artwork for a forthcoming mural by Lisa Marie Thalhammer (Lisa Marie Studio).

Arlington Public Library is hosting a range of Pride events culminating in the June 7 WorldPride Parade, where we will walk alongside colleagues from libraries in D.C., Prince William and Prince George's counties. And check out my Pride playlist and my book list curated for Pride Month—a list of LGBTQIA+ classics and titles new to me, and maybe to you, too.

"Trans Anthology Project" discussion and signing with authors Chrissy Boylan and Heather Kirby, presented May 14, 2025, at Central Library.

A resolution adopted by the County Board on May 13, 2025, reaffirmed a commitment to equity originally adopted in September 2019 and further emphasized the County’s aim to ensure Arlington is welcoming and inclusive of all, including LGBTQIA+ individuals and families.

Along with dozens of others, I was in attendance in the County Board room as the resolution was read by Board Member Maureen Coffey and passed unanimously. The spirit in the room was electric.

A large group of community members poses in the Arlington County Board meeting room on May 13, 2025, celebrating the passage of a Pride resolution. People of all ages hold rainbow, Progress Pride, and transgender flags, smiling in support of LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Behind them, a screen displays a heart graphic with rainbow stripes and the message “YOU ARE ALL WELCOME HERE,” alongside text affirming Arlington County’s support for WorldPride 2025 and the LGBTQIA+ community. The Arlington County seal and U.S. and Virginia flags are visible in the background.
The County Board and community members following the Pride resolution on May 13, 2025.

One section of the resolution resonated with me both personally and professionally:

“WHEREAS social acceptance and inclusion leads to better outcomes for members of the LGBTQIA+ community and helps ensure full participation in and enjoyment of communal life, which in turn enriches the cultural and social fabric of our community.”

Librarians bring The Truck to Arlington County's Pride Proclamation on June 5, 2024.

This statement mirrors a stated goal of Arlington Public Library, to be a third place where all belong. A place where continuous learning, discovery and self-fulfillment are limitless, and community connections broadened. A judgment-free zone where all who enter our doors, regardless of beliefs, gender preferences, country of origin, age, income status or appearance are welcome.

A place where you can come as you are and not as someone wants you to be. Your life, your choice.

Arlington Public Library: Always Free to Come as You Are.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director, Arlington Public Library

Director’s Message: The Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden

The Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden: an appreciation

Dr. Carla Hayden was sworn in as the 14th Librarian of Congress in 2016. Appointed by Barack Obama in the final days of his presidency, she was the first woman and first African American to lead this storied institution—which I was fortunate to call “home” for more than 30 years.

Arlington Public Library staff meeting with Dr. Hayden.
Arlington Public Library staff meet with Dr. Hayden in the Librarian's Ceremonial Office in the Thomas Jefferson Building at the Library of Congress, November 2, 2022. (L-R): Katherine Chiriboga, Anneliesa Alprin, Brittany Veland, Jennifer Odlum, Diane Kresh, Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden.

Carla Hayden is of the people and for the people. She has used her years of public librarianship in Chicago and Baltimore to open wide the doors of the “people’s library.” Her championing of literacy, popular culture and freedom of speech is her proud legacy.

Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden delivers the "Play Ball!" announcement for Library Night at Washington Nationals Park, August 20, 2024. Photo by Shawn Miller/Library of Congress.

Short in stature, tall in spirit, she is unwavering in her belief that libraries are for everyone. She was President of the American Library Association (ALA) when the Patriot Act was moving through Congress and fought to preserve the sanctity of library borrowing records.

Dr. Carla Hayden in a purple jacket at the Library of Congress Main Reading Room.
Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden in the Library's Main Reading Room, September 1, 2020. Photo by Shawn Miller/Library of Congress.

Dr. Hayden was fired by the current administration via email on Thursday, May 8, one year before her 10-year term was to end.

Thank you for your service, Dr. Hayden. Our nation’s libraries owe you a debt of gratitude.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director, Arlington Public Library

Director’s Message: To Daffodils!*

Spring is springing and signs are everywhere. The cherry blossom trees outside my office windows bloomed pink, turned brown and now are on their way to green.

The Central Library tennis courts are packed each afternoon with student players, the gardens have been mulched (like old books, a smell I love), and daffodils, from Lady Bird Johnson Park off the George Washington Parkway to my backyard, are standing tall, trumpeting renewal and rebirth.

A cluster of white daffodils with bright yellow and orange centers in full bloom outside Central Library. The flowers are framed by fresh green leaves, with the library building and budding spring trees visible in the background.
A cluster of daffodils in front of Central Library.

April is one of the Library’s busiest months. The Friends of the Arlington Public Library's Spring Book Sale starts today through April 6.

We celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month with books sharing the rich heritage and culture of many of our Arlington coworkers, neighbors and friends. A favorite author of mine is Moroccan American novelist Laila Lalami whose latest book “Dream Hotel” I am in the middle of reading. I interviewed Lalami a few years ago about her mystery/thriller “The Other Americans,” a National Book Award finalist.

Arlington Reads with Laila Lalami presented April 22, 2021.

April is National Poetry Month, and we are taking a moment to salute outgoing poet laureate Courtney LeBlanc who has been a faithful and inspiring friend of the library during her tenure. Courtney’s latest book, “Her Dark Everything’ comes out this month.

Earth Day turns 55 on April 22 and we will host a series of programs including “Fix Nearly Anything,” making mini terrariums and garden talks. And The Truck will be on the road again joining Langston Boulevard Alliance's Earth Day Every Day celebration.

Arlington Public Library’s turquoise and white library truck parked at National Night Out in Green Valley. A group of library staff and community members chat and smile at a table covered with library materials and giveaway items. The tablecloth displays the Arlington Public Library logo and the slogan "Everyone Has a Story."
The Truck at National Night Out in Green Valley on August 1, 2023.

National Library Week is April 6-12 and we cap off the week with the Human Library. Check out a human book and learn what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes. This is our third time hosting this event and our book collection offers varied and compelling “reads.”

A Human Library patron speaks with a "book" at Central Library on April 13, 2024.

The FY26 Budget for Arlington County is adopted this month. Thank you to the many patrons of the Library who contacted the County Board during the budget process.

We are humbled by the many kind comments we received and by the love you give us each day by checking out books, attending one or more of the 5000+ programs we offer annually, booking rooms for scout meetings, tax assistance, and book clubs, transferring family photographs to digital media in the Shop, volunteering and helping us make Arlington the community we are proud to call home.

A smiling librarian offers assistance at Central Library's upstairs information desk.
A librarian offers assistance at Central Library's upstairs information desk.

There is a lot happening in our community and in our world and much of it is stressful. With wellness programs, resume writing and budgeting workshops and many others, we have devoted space, time and resources to assist federal employees who either have lost, or are concerned about losing, their jobs. For however long we are needed, we will be there to support federal workers and their families.

A Federal Employee & Contractor Town Hall at Central Library on March 6, 2025.

You can count on us to present facts and multiple perspectives, preserve your stories, be an active third place where everyone is welcome and can be in community with one another. And stand tall.

Like the daffodils.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director, Arlington Public Library

*In celebration of National Poetry Month, enjoy my inspiration for this message: Robert Herrick’s poem “To Daffodils.” 

Director’s Message: Celebration of All Women

March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation and honors the contributions of women to our nation’s history.

Photos of Ellen M. Bozman, Margaret Elizabeth Pfohl Campbell, Mary Marshall, Dorothy Hamm and Evelyn Reid Syphax.
From left to right: Ellen M. Bozman, Margaret Elizabeth Pfohl Campbell, Mary Marshall, Dorothy Hamm and Evelyn Reid Syphax.

Our community of Arlington has been enriched by the work of women leaders and activists, whose impact has been felt in civil rights, education, government and human services, and whose names grace our public buildings and spaces: Ellen M. Bozman, Margaret Elizabeth Pfohl Campbell, Mary Marshall, Dorothy Hamm and Evelyn Reid Syphax.

We have been similarly honored to be home for giants of the music industry and note the recent passing of Green Valley resident, the incomparable Roberta Flack.

American singer and pianist Roberta Flack (1973).

The Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery and the Military Women’s Memorial remind us that women have served in the military with courage and distinction.

Arlington government and leadership is committed to work toward a gender equal world, free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world where people live openly and authentically and where difference is appreciated

Photo of participants interacting with vendors during the 2024 Women's Maker Fair at Central Library.
Participants interacting with vendors during the 2024 Women's Maker Fair at Central Library.

Every day, librarians and volunteers at Arlington Public Library open our doors to welcome patrons and community members of all backgrounds. Libraries are third places where all can belong and simply be in community with one another. Places where continuous learning and self-discovery are limitless, and connections with our neighbors are strengthened.

However you identify, be it as a member of the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC community, immigrant or New American—we serve everyone. And we do so through books, library spaces and free programs generously sponsored by the Friends of the Arlington Library (FOAL).

As we commemorate Women's History Month, I am proud Arlington Public Library provides welcoming, inclusive spaces to celebrate and support our collective and varied identities and cultures.

Thank you for your support of Arlington Public Library and for helping us be all we can be for everyone.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director, Arlington Public Library

PS: If you are a reader, here’s a gift (Diane's 2025 Picks) for Women's History Month from me to you.

Director’s Message: Know Your Rights

Know Your Rights: A guide to resources

Library Director Diane Kresh and Takis Karantonis welcome a new citizen at the U.S. Naturalization Ceremony at Central Library, Aug. 24, 2023.

While writing this message, I am reminded of children's television icon Fred Rogers famously saying, "Look for the helpers." A comforting thought to offer young people in times of crisis and uncertainty. Mr. Rogers taught us there are always people who step up to help—whether they are first responders, volunteers or everyday people offering kindness and comfort and with that, a hope things will get better.

Libraries have a proud history of providing free resources and education to immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees. Arlington Public Library is committed to informing the community about individual rights and providing trustworthy and relevant resources when they are needed most.

50 people, representing over 30 countries, participated in the U.S. Naturalization Ceremony. 

Immigrants, regardless of their immigration status, have rights as cited in the U.S. Constitution.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has information about one's rights as an immigrant. United We Dream provides information about what to do if one has an encounter with an immigration official.

Resources to learn more about rights, the official path to citizenship and free legal and social services can be found on our website.

In addition, the library has eCollections for immigrants, refugees and new citizens.

Please share these resources within your networks and stay tuned for updates. Arlington Public Library is here to help.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director, Arlington Public Library

Director’s Message: a 2024 too long, yet not long enough

First, a story...

Library Director Diane Kresh leans over a table in conversation with a young girl during a book sale in the Central Library parking garage. Another library volunteer wearing a green apron is engaged nearby. The table is surrounded by books and event signage, with a colorful backdrop featuring illustrations of books and trees.

Chrysalis, one of our youth services librarians, shared this story with me:

"A few weeks ago, I was chatting with a mom and daughter before storytime who have attended regularly for a couple years now. She mentioned that her child loves playing librarian with their bookshelf at home, taking the books down to read, then putting them all back on the shelf.

Her daughter doesn’t quite understand what a librarian is yet, but she knows it has something to do with books. One day, she had pulled off all of her books to read and as she went to put them away, she looked at the pile of books and said:

'I am a librarian, and there is much work to be done.'"

Indeed.

2024 was a year that both ran too long yet not long enough. Let me explain. Too long to witness the tragedies and heartbreak encircling the globe. Not long enough to do all the things we librarians strive to do each day—inform, preserve, protect—to hold the people of our communities in shared humanity, focusing on unity.

Deaf Plus Advocate Jeremy Smith, wearing a red cap and glasses, signs expressively in conversation with a participant during Arlington Public Library's Human Library event. A sign on the table identifies his topic, 'My DeafPlus Life,' as part of the program. The library's open and modern space is visible in the background, with other participants seated at tables.
A joyful moment during a Naturalization Ceremony at Central Library, with a woman in a teal cardigan proudly waving a small American flag. She is surrounded by other participants, some holding flags and official documents from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, all celebrating their new citizenship.

Typically, this Director’s Message recaps our previous year.

Here goes:

The books I read: debut authors (Essie Chambers) and old masters (Charles Dickens, Jean Stafford). Favorites included Louise Erdrich and Kate Atkinson and prize winners such as “James” by Percival Everett and “Orbital” by Samantha Harvey, as well as “Held” by Anne Michaels.

There were writers whose every word I hung on, Claire Keegan as an example. New York Times list toppers (Elena Ferrante), and surprises such as “The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir” by Jennifer Ryan. Books about books: “The Reading List” by Sara Nisha Adams. And romance novels by Casey McQuiston and Dolly Alderton in anticipation of “Share the Love,” the 2025 Arlington Reads theme—a celebration of love in all of its manifestations and a chance to get beyond ourselves and into the hearts and minds of others.

My full reading list appears on Goodreads. In the new year, I am switching to StoryGraph to join a new community of book lovers. I hope many of you will connect with me there. If you struggle with finding either the time or the inclination to read, check out this piece from Axios. Lots of tips to spark one’s inner reader.

The 2024 Arlington Reads homage to James Baldwin underscored what a towering presence he remains in American literature. Likewise, our celebration of Afrofuturism introduced us to groundbreaking storytelling.

A photograph of a James Baldwin community read event at Central Library. In the foreground, a framed poster promotes the "James Baldwin Centennial," featuring an image of Baldwin smiling against a warm-toned background. Below, text invites attendees to share their stories, with a QR code and the Arlington Public Library logo displayed. The poster is positioned next to an open door leading into a well-lit room where participants are seated at tables, engaged in discussion. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with visible details of the brick wall and modern interior lighting.
Author Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah signs books and chats with attendees after his Arlington Reads event. He is wearing a colorful jacket and headband, holding a stack of books, including one titled "Chain-Gang All-Stars." A group of smiling attendees surrounds him, holding books and coats. The background shows a blue wall and a large projector screen displaying the Arlington Public Library logo and text encouraging participation in future events. The atmosphere is lively and engaging.

The Human Library and the Holiday Gift Nook returned—strong reminders Arlington residents are full to bursting with empathy and generosity. Thank you to all who participated.

The Shed, The Shop, our bookstores and gardens, GameFest and the creative Instagram reels, kept us nourished, curious, entertained and connected. Thank you to our talented library staff and volunteers.

A mother and young child explore a table filled with colorful toys at Arlington Public Library's Holiday Gift Nook. The mother, wearing a yellow scarf with a pattern, holds the child as they reach out toward a blue toy helicopter. The background features a frosted glass wall with a map-like design, adding a festive yet modern ambiance to the event. The table is stocked with various toys and games, creating a cheerful and family-friendly atmosphere.
A group of participants enjoys a board game at Arlington Public Library's GameFest event. A young boy wearing a green hoodie focuses intently on his game piece while an adult next to him, smiling and wearing sunglasses on his head, watches attentively. Other players, including a woman in a striped sweater and additional participants blurred in the foreground, are engaged in the activity. A colorful game setup with dice and cards is spread across the table, creating a fun and interactive atmosphere in the library space. A mounted TV screen is visible in the background.

The library’s patrons showed up. Our annual circulation broke records: eCirculation grew by more than 40% and many thousands of Arlingtonians attended more than 3,500 programs. Our patrons expressed good wishes in letters, emails and in person, further grounding our commitments to social justice, compassion and fairness.

The Library’s goals for 2025 remain the same. To hear and respond to those whose voices we have occasionally tuned out. To see those who live on the margins. To do our best each day for ourselves and for each other.

A large group photo of Arlington Public Library staff gathered at a holiday party. The group is diverse, with attendees dressed in festive attire, including holiday sweaters, bright scarves, and red accents. Some individuals wear name tags, and a few in the front row are seated on the floor, smiling cheerfully. In the background, a presentation screen displays text about the upcoming APL Trivia Tournament, set for Spring 2025. The atmosphere is warm and joyful, showcasing camaraderie and celebration among the staff.

From the staff and volunteers of Arlington Public Library and the members of the Friends of the Arlington Public Library, we wish you all the best for 2025! There is much work to be done.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director, Arlington Public Library

Too Cool For Yule #17

Thanksgiving has passed, which means it’s time to share the latest edition of Arlington Public Library’s “Too Cool for Yule” playlist.

This annual tradition is personal. Every year, it reminds me of the thousands of hours I’ve spent listening to music and making and sharing playlists—on cassette, burned CDs and now streaming—for friends, family and you.

Like a book or a film, a playlist not only tells a story—it invites a range of responses from joy to sorrow and everything in between, expressing one’s feelings and emotions when words alone are not enough. It’s a gift that keeps on giving like the collections found in libraries, always bringing together people of all ages and for all occasions.

As 2024 runs out the clock, we hope you will take a moment to relax, gather with family or friends, grab a favorite beverage and give a listen to “Too Cool for Yule.”

We hope you’ll be moved to sing along with the tunes you know and hum along to those you don’t. And if you make it to the end (and we hope you do), you’ll find a song that speaks for me at this place and time.

From all of us at Arlington Public Library, we wish you and yours a joyful season’s end and a peaceful new year.

Always Free. Always Open. Always Listening.

Signatue of Library Director Diane Kresh.

Diane Kresh
Director
Arlington Public Library



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