On the Road Again (and Again)

Library branches are bustling; nearly 800,000 people visited Virginia Beach Public Library’s (VBPL’s) 10 branches last year, accessing free programs, technology, books and other resources. And library staff are hustling, serving more than 61,000 customers beyond library walls, traveling across Virginia Beach to reach residents who may not otherwise be able to visit the library.  

In observance of Library Outreach Day, April 10, we’re shining the spotlight on the FREE library programs and resources available out in the community and how you can request a visit.

Early Literacy

On a recent Monday morning, VBPL staffers Shannon H. and Lisa S. loaded books, puppets and other teaching tools into the library’s van and departed Central Library for their monthly visits to All Day Daycare and Williams Farm Park Rec Center. With music, movement, rhymes and letter-of-the-day activities, Shannon and Lisa engaged audiences of babies and preschoolers while also providing early literacy tips to the childcare providers in the room. The giggles and cheers were contagious.

K-12 School Visits

VBPL also visits elementary schools, providing students with fun activities, access to resources and hands-on opportunities to explore technology, including drones and coding robots, encouraging them on the road to lifelong learning.  

Service dog Wren, a student favorite, often joins Kaitlyn H., VBPL’s disability services librarian, and VBPL outreach librarian, Elena M., to visit Virginia Beach schools and homeschool groups to share information about service dogs including duties, training and how to behave around them while they’re on duty.

Senior Living

VBPL staff regularly visit senior adult communities, retirement centers and other gathering spots, bringing books, technology toys and thoughtful programs tailored to the needs of older adults. Arts and crafts, reading, and other engaging activities help combat isolation and foster a sense of belonging.

Community Events

VBPL staff also bring library resources to Virginia Beach celebrations, such as Parks & Recreation’s Cherry Blossom Festival, and the Celebrating Children event on April 27. The library also offers regular off-site programs, including VBPL in the Park and hosts book clubs in local restaurants and breweries.

Coming soon: thanks to funding by the Virginia Beach Library Foundation, VBPL is rolling out a new bookmobile this summer to enhance outreach services to residents of all ages.

Request a Visit

If you represent a Virginia Beach organization, you may request a visit from VBPL. Options include children’s programs, early literacy workshops for parents and caregivers, pop-up library presence at events, technology instruction and English conversation clubs for non-native English speakers.

Visit VBPL’s community outreach website to find a complete list of options and request form.