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
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:
- Call VDH at 1-877-829-4682
- Visit the Supporting Testing Access through Community Collaboration website
We value your feedback. Tell us what you think about our Library services. We will read and consider all comments.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Media Contacts
Anneliesa Alprin
Communications Manager
aalprin@arlingtonva.us
703-228-6329 (o)
Henrik Sundqvist
Communications Officer
nsundqvist@arlingtonva.us
703-228-0590 (o) / 571-970-8608 (c)
Annual Reports
Awards
2021
Penguin Random House Library Award for Innovation
2017
Urban Libraries Council Top Innovator Award
The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments – Climate and Energy Leadership Award
Virginia Association of Counties Achievement Award
2015
Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Business Award
2012
Sustainable Libraries Award
2011
Outstanding Public Program Award
Outstanding Achievement in Local Government Innovation Award
Arlington Reads brings authors and readers together to talk about the important topics of our time.
News Archive
Center for Local History to Curate 2020 Time Capsule
A snapshot of today, as well as a gift for the future.
Read MoreVideo: New APL Kids YouTube Channel
Storytimes designed to help your child learn reading readiness.
Read MoreIntroducing Book Bundles for Kids
No longer offered as of July 2021.
Read MoreIntroducing MyBook, for Kindergarten – Grade 2
Grow Your Home Library.
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