Henrico County Public Library is marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a series of events and resources. The Semiquincentennial, known as VA250, will be commemorated with performances, lectures, and other programs over the coming months.
The library has announced several February events at its locations. On February 17, Gayton Library will host “Knowledge Challenge! United States Edition,” where participants can join teams to answer questions about U.S. history, geography, and culture in a game show format. The event is open to all, regardless of prior knowledge.
On February 18 at Glen Allen Library, “History Kids: Powhatan” will introduce young children to the life and culture of the Powhatan peoples in 17th century Virginia. The program includes recreated objects from daily Powhatan life and is presented by Henricus Historical Park.
Samuel Hayes III will present “My Story” on February 19 at Libbie Mill Library. He will discuss his nearly five decades of family research that traces his multicultural ancestry back to the nation’s founding. Hayes will share how he used online tools, physical records, and DNA testing for genealogical research in Virginia.
The library is also highlighting books from its collection for all ages related to the American Revolution. For children, titles include “I Survived the American Revolution, 1776” by Lauren Tarshis and “Johnny Tremain: a Story of Boston in Revolt” by Esther Forbes. Teen readers can find books such as “Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson and “Love & War: an Alex & Eliza Story” by Melissa De la Cruz. Adult selections include “A Refuge Assured” by Jocelyn Green and “Dear George, Dear Mary” by Mary Calvi.
Patrons are encouraged to check the library’s program guide or online calendar for more information about upcoming VA250 programs.
Henrico County Public Library manages nine locations across Henrico County, Virginia, providing services such as mobile library outreach, free WiFi, public computers, educational support resources like homework help and job search assistance, reservable meeting areas for groups of various sizes, tax assistance services, and environmentally sustainable buildings certified under Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (official website). The library system serves communities including Glen Allen and offers mobile services to retirement facilities and day care centers (official website). Its mission includes encouraging reading and lifelong learning while supporting community enrichment through access to information (official website).
For further details on programs or available resources during VA250 celebrations or general services offered throughout Henrico County’s multiple library branches (official website), residents can visit the official website.
