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Arlington Public Library

News Release

Amina Luqman-Dawson Wins Two Prestigious National Awards

First Woman to Win Both the John Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Book Award

On January 30, the American Library Association (ALA) awarded Arlington-based author Amina Luqman-Dawson the John Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King (Author) Book Award for her novel “Freewater.”

The Newbery Medal is a literary award given by the Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association, to the author of “the most distinguished contributions to American literature for children.” The Coretta Scott King Book Award recognizes an African American author and illustrator of outstanding books for children and young adults.

ALA announced the top books, digital media, videos, and audiobooks for children and young adults—including the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Newbery, and Printz awards—at ALA’s 2023 LibLearnX conference in New Orleans.

“We are beyond happy for Amina Luqman-Dawson and her extraordinary achievement,” said Library Director Diane Kresh. “Freewater" is an important story and deserves to be read by every middle school student.”

Set in the Great Dismal Swamp, “Freewater” is a middle-grade novel about a secret community of formerly enslaved people. “Freewater” is published by JIMMY Patterson/Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

Luqman-Dawson is the first woman to win both the John Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King Award.

Several female authors have received the Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Award in the same year including Renee Watson for “Piecing Me Together” (2018), Jacqueline Woodson for “Brown Girl Dreaming” (2015), Rita Williams-Garcia for “P.S. Be Eleven” (2014) and “One Crazy Summer” (2011). The Honor books are those that were not the first place of the year but deserve honorable mention.

Angela Johnson won the Coretta Scott King Award and the Printz for “The First Part Last” (2004).

“On the eve of Black History Month, congratulations to our talented Arlington author. Thank you for sharing your voice,” said Kresh.

Arlington Public Library Director Diane Kresh with local author Amina Luqman-Dawson.

Local author Amina Luqman-Dawson and Library Director Diane Kresh during a Juneteenth program hosted by Arlington Public Library on June 22, 2022.  

New Teleconnect Space Available at Columbia Pike Library

The pilot project will launch with a ribbon cutting ceremony on September 19.

There is a new option for Arlington residents and visitors who need an internet connection and privacy for virtual meetings. Arlington Public Library has opened The Teleconnect Space at Columbia Pike Library, in partnership with the Arlington County Department of Community Planning, Housing, and Development (CPHD) and the Department of Technology Services (DTS).

The Teleconnect Space is a single meeting room at the library branch that is outfitted with a hardwired computer equipped with web access to Zoom, Skype, and other video conferencing software. It also has a ring light to create a professional setting. The space is reserved for virtual meetings for specific purposes including telehealth appointments, job interviews, social service appointments, health insurance sign up and college interviews.

Arlington Public Library will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of The Teleconnect Space at Columbia Pike Library on Monday, Sept. 19, from 4:30–6 p.m. The event is open to the public and Columbia Pike’s Sunshine Gang band will provide entertainment.

This new resource is part of the County’s digital equity initiative to ensure all Arlington residents have affordable, reliable access to high-speed internet and the technology to fully participate in the community and economy, with a focus on connectivity, access, education and training and program sustainability.  

“Anyone who needs a free, quiet, private space and who does not have equivalent access at home or anyone who needs extra tech assistance to get started taking a telehealth appointment is invited to use the Teleconnect Space,” said Arlington Public Library Director Diane Kresh. “The Library is at the center of the community, and we are glad to be working with our County partners CPHD and DTS to add this vital service.”

Community and local government partners include the Arlington Free Clinic, Arlington Employment Center, Arlington Peers Helping Peers in Recovery (APRC), OAR of Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church and the Columbia Pike Partnership.   

The Teleconnect Space may be booked online for two hours each day, up to two times per week. Anyone unable to make an online reservation may call Columbia Pike Library at 703-228-5710 for assistance.

Make a Reservation

Potential uses of the space include: a person in a virtual support group meeting who would ordinarily meet from their car for privacy; a person with a large family who has a virtual college interview; a job seeker who lives in group housing or with many family members and needs an uninterrupted interview; a LGBTQIA+ adult who needs a telehealth appointment but does not have a secure, private space at home to talk to a medical professional; and other possibilities.  

The Teleconnect Space has frosted glass covering most of the outside and a white noise machine helps provide audio privacy. Limited staff assistance is available for help with personal devices on the public Wi-Fi network. The Teleconnect Space may not be used for paid work, paid tutoring, business meetings, online class attendance, in-person meetings, social events, or by for-profit organizations.

Arlington Public Library Receives Large, One-Time Increase to its Collections’ Budget

On April 26, 2022, the Arlington County Board adopted the Fiscal Year 2023 budget and allocated $543,000 in one-time funding to the Arlington Public Library’s collections starting
July 1, 2022.

The budget increase will support the Library‘s aim to reduce wait times across the collections, re-engage the community after a two-year pandemic through creative programming, and invite more readers to explore the Library’s titles and participate in its various services.

"The additional funds will allow us to get more books into more hands, more quickly," said Library Director Diane Kresh. "A well-stocked, diverse collection benefits the entire community." 

With the budget increase, the Library will add 12,000 titles to its circulation and drastically reduce wait times for popular eBooks and eAudiobooks. "Our top priority is to ensure patrons have access to books and information in multiple formats," said Kresh. "Patrons should be able to read and access information, when and how they want it.”  

The demand for electronic titles is at an all-time high with an increase for eAudio titles by 210% and for eBooks by 98.5% respectively. 

In addition to reducing wait times for electronic titles, the Library plans to expand three existing popular collection services:

  • Provide additional print and eBook titles for the "Grab & Go" express book collection.
  • Increase the "Always Available" eBook and eAudiobook collection.
  • Expand the volume of Spanish language books.

Explore the Library’s collections and discover all its booklists.

Browse Booklists

Download the Arlington Public Library App, get 24x7 access to the Library’s collections and discover upcoming programs, such as Summer Reading launching June 1.

Download Library App

To find more information about the adopted $1.50 billion balanced Arlington County General Fund Budget for Fiscal Year 2023, visit https://www.arlingtonva.us. 

Free Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi Hot Spots Available Now, System-Wide

During the month of January, 2022, two new free outdoor Wi-Fi hot spots were installed at the Cherrydale and Glencarlyn Libraries.

Library patrons and Arlington residents now have 24x7 access to the free Arlington County Wi-Fi network “ArlingtonWireless” at all library branches, both outdoor and indoor, and at various locations around the County. No ID or password is required for the free service.

In 2021, an average of 5,000 Library patrons logged in each month to the outdoor ArlingtonWireless network at five Library locations (Aurora Hills, Central, Columbia Pike, Shirlington and Westover branches).

“With the addition of Cherrydale and Glencarlyn, we are thrilled that we can offer free 24x7 outdoor and indoor Wi-Fi access system-wide. It's a great community service," said Library Director Diane Kresh. "Free access to technology and information is at the core of a Library."

Find more information about the Library's free Wi-Fi network and how to access it by clicking the link below.

ArlingtonWireless

This information technology infrastructure project is part of Arlington County’s Department of Technology Services digital equity enterprise initiative. ArlingtonWireless provides no-cost internet access in places where the community gathers and makes high-speed broadband internet accessible to all residents and library patrons.

To find additional Wi-Fi locations in the County, visit the interactive digital resource map.

Digital Resource Map

Library Joins Program to Distribute Free Rapid COVID-19 Tests

Free COVID-19 Tests Available at the Library

In collaboration with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), all Arlington Public Library locations will distribute free COVID-19 rapid antigen at-home test kits beginning Friday, Dec. 10, 2021.

Update December 10, 12:10 p.m.:  All library locations are out of stock. Please check back next week for updates on availability. 

The test kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be picked up from the service desk at each Library location. Neither proof of County residency nor a library card is required, and the kits are free of charge. Visitors are welcome to pick up test kits for both themselves and household members.

Masks are required in all Library buildings - including when picking up a test. Anyone exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms should have someone pick up the test on their behalf.

While the supply of test kits is currently limited, it will be replenished regularly. Please visit the Library to check availability.

About the Test

Covid Test 600px

The virtually-guided Abbott BinaxNow COVID-19 Antigen Card Home Test is designed to be used in the privacy of an individual’s home, with digital test results available in 15 minutes. Rapid antigen tests expire, and are meant to be used immediately, not saved for a “just in case” scenario.

The at-home test kit uses the eMed digital platform to facilitate and verify the test with the Virginia Department of Health. To take the COVID-19 rapid antigen at-home test, individuals will need an internet connection, an internet-enabled device with a webcam or front-facing camera, microphone, and speaker for the testing session, and a valid photo ID to show the eMed virtual guide. Once the test has been completed, the user will receive a test result within 15 minutes, and eMed will report the results to VDH.

Tests should not be taken inside the Library.  However, many Library locations do provide a strong Wi-Fi signal in parking lots.

Information about who should be tested is available at the Virginia Department of Health’s website. 

Individuals who test positive should isolate and follow up with their healthcare provider or Arlington County Public Health Division.

Learn more about this program from the Virginia Department of Health:

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New Library Operating Hours and Re-Imagined Bozman Library

Effective Monday, January 3, 2022, Arlington Public Library will implement a new schedule of operating hours:

Central Library

  • Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Friday – Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Columbia Pike and Shirlington Libraries 

  • Monday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Tuesday: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Thursday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Friday – Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Westover Library

  • Monday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Tuesday: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Thursday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Sunday: New hours will be announced in 2022.

Aurora Hills, Cherrydale and Glencarlyn Libraries

  • Monday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Tuesday: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Thursday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Sunday: Closed
Hours & Locations

The Shop is Back!

The Shop, the maker space at Central Library, will re-open by appointment only effective Monday, Nov. 15.

  • 2-hour appointments will be available through the Library website for Open Lab and Glowforge.
  • New 3D print jobs will be accepted through the Library website after November 15.
Make An Appointment

Coming Summer 2022

The new Bozman Library, formerly known as Plaza Library, is currently under renovation and will be re-imagined as a full-service branch.

Highlights of the redesign include contemporary furnishings, a new children’s book and media collection, and space for library programming such as storytimes and author talks. More details will be announced next spring.

We value your feedback. Tell us what you think about our Library services. We will read and consider all comments.

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REAL Archives Project

October 8, 2021

The  REAL Archives Project, or el Re-Encuentro de Arlington Latinos, is designed to illustrate the rich, vibrant history of the Latino community in Arlington County.  

The Center for Local History (CLH) is seeking donations of a variety of materials to document the impact of the Latino community which will inform how Arlington’s history is told and remembered in the future.  

REAL is a multi-year collecting initiative with the goal to include more documentation of the Latino community’s history in the CLH’s Arlington Community Archives.  

Between 1990 and 2000, the County’s Hispanic/Latino population increased by 52.7%. Today, that sector makes up 15.7% of the Arlington population, and the County is now home to generations of Hispanic/Latino residents. 

“Arlington Public Library shares and preserves Arlington’s story through books and other media, programs, family histories and personal recollections. REAL is a concerted effort to collect and share the stories of our Latino neighbors and friends who have made significant contributions to our community,” said Library Director Diane Kresh. 

Learn More

The CLH collects, preserves and shares historical documents that tell the history of Arlington County, its citizens, organizations, businesses and social issues. The CLH operates the Research Room at Central Library and the Arlington Community Archives program. 

Partnership between DTS and Library Creates Summer Reading Success

AFAC is the 2021 Recipient of the Summer Reading Challenge Donation

On Wednesday, Sep. 15, representatives of the Friends of the Arlington Public Library (FOAL), together with the Arlington County Departments of Library and Technology Services, presented a $4,525 check to the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC). The donation represents the number of Library readers who successfully completed the 2021 Summer Reading Challenge.

The contribution to AFAC demonstrates the power of collaboration between two Arlington County departments, one nonprofit and the important work AFAC is doing for our hungry neighbors in need. AFAC has been distributing groceries to families in need every week in Arlington since 1988 and provided 3 million pounds of food to underserved communities in FY20.

Representatives from the Department of Technology Services and the Library with harles Meng, Chief Executive Officer at AFAC.

(Left to right) David Herlihy, Division Chief, Digital Experience and Innovation, Department of Technology Services, Charles Meng, Chief Executive Officer, AFAC and Diane Kresh, Director, Arlington Public Library.

Read the full news release here.

Since its inception, the Library app has been downloaded more than 42,000 times. App users can use the technology for easy account management, catalog search and meeting room bookings.

“We are fortunate to have partners like the DTS staff who understand what public service is. The app increases our ability to reach patrons and made a big difference with our Summer Reading programs,” said Diane Kresh, Director, Arlington Public Library.

Download Library App

Cherrydale And Glencarlyn Library Locations To Reopen September 7

September 2, 2021

Starting September 7, 2021, Arlington Public Library will reopen two locations — Cherrydale and Glencarlyn Libraries.

Arlington residents and Library patrons will have access to seven open library locations — Aurora Hills, Cherrydale, Central, Columbia Pike, Glencarlyn, Shirlington and Westover Libraries. The Plaza branch will remain closed in preparation for a long-planned expansion and renovation.

“The Library continues to make steady progress toward filling an unprecedented number of public service vacancies caused by the pandemic and subsequent hiring freeze. We believe we are turning the corner and look forward to seeing more of our patrons,” said Arlington Public Library Director Diane Kresh. 

All open Library locations will follow the same schedule. 

Monday to Saturday Hours

  • Monday/Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Wednesday/Thursday: 12 – 7 p.m.
  • Friday/Saturday: 12 – 5 p.m.

Additional Service Updates

The Center for Local History at Central Library is open to the public by appointment.

Indoor and outdoor storytime programs are offered at multiple locations. Starting September 13, Library patrons can enjoy indoor storytime programs at Cherrydale and Glencarlyn branches.

Arlington Public Library will continue to evaluate service levels and hopes to expand hours and offerings over the next few months.

View all branch information.

As always, we value your feedback. Tell us what you think about our Library services. We will read and consider all comments.

Library Services Feedback

Three Additional Library Locations Open & Hours Expand Across the System

News Release: July 2, 2021

Starting July 6, Arlington residents and Library patrons will have access to five open library locations — Aurora Hills, Central, Columbia Pike, Shirlington and Westover libraries.

Arlington Public Library will prioritize access to library collections, reintroduce core library services and feature new operating hours across the system. The Express Library Service model and Central Library’s Holds-Only Pickup Service will end, and all holds will now be available for self-serve access inside library locations.

New Hours at all Five Open Locations

  • Monday/Tuesday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Wednesday/Thursday: 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Friday/Saturday: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Available starting Tuesday, July 6

  • Full access to Library’s collections and unlimited browsing time with no capacity limits at all open locations
  • Self-service holds pickup at all open locations
  • Spaced seating for public Wi-Fi and study use
  • Public copiers / scanners at all open locations except Westover
  • Account management assistance
  • Full access to public restrooms and water fountains
  • Parking garage at Central Library

The Center for Local History at Central Library will be open to the public by appointment after July 6. Outdoor and Indoor Storytime programs will start in late July.

The Library has been steadily working all spring to fill a high number of vacant public service jobs after an unprecedented staff shortage due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent hiring freeze. Hiring and training new staff will continue this summer with the goal of arriving at more normal staffing levels in the Fall.

As Arlington Public Library continues to reopen in stages, patrons will have access to expanded library services.

After August 6

  • Public PCs will be available.
  • Meeting spaces will be bookable online for public use.
  • Indoor programming will expand across the Library system as staffing increases.
  • Book donations will be accepted by the Friends of the Arlington Library at all locations.

Fall Expansion of Services

  • Sunday hours will return after Labor Day.
  • Friends of the Arlington Public Library book stores will reopen in the Fall.
  • Cherrydale and Glencarlyn Library will reopen Fall 2021.

Additional Service Updates

  • When visiting the Library, the Arlington County Visitor Face Covering Policy is in effect.
  • The Shed, the Library’s seasonal garden-tool lending service, will remain closed for the 2021 growing season for staffing reasons, with plans to reopen in 2022.
  • The Shop, the Library’s maker space, will remain closed until staffing allows for increased levels of programming.
  • The Plaza branch will remain closed in preparation for a long-planned expansion and renovation.

During the first week of reopening, the public is invited to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony and community celebration of the newly renovated Columbia Pike Library on Thursday, July 8, 4 - 6 p.m. Join members of the County Board, the County Manager and Library Director Diane Kresh in the ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by family-friendly events, music and ice cream, and a tour of the transformed Library Branch.

As always, we value your feedback. Tell us what you think about our Library services. We will read and consider all comments.

Library Services Feedback
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