Blog
Richland Library Main

SC Science Standards: Plant Growth and Survival

  • Emily J.
  • Friday, October 30

Plants tell an important story about the environment. Take time to explore and investigate the plants in the backyard with your kindergartener. Visit local gardens and discuss the types of plants in the area. Ask questions about how the environment provides plants with the resources they need to survive, water and sunlight

The New Annotated Dracula
Northanger Abbey
Staff Picks

Gothic Literature

  • Kristin A.
  • Monday, October 05
Featuring windswept moors, crumbling towers, abandoned castles, and maybe a ghost or two, Gothic Literature is all about atmosphere. From English manors to Southern mansions, these often supernatural tales merge deep passions with chill dread. Just be sure to read them with the lights on and don't answer the strange knocking at your door.     
Dirty Wars and Polished Silver
The Mammoth Book of Combat
Staff Picks

The First Casualty

  • Bland L.
  • Thursday, October 01
The first casualty of war, it has been famously said, is the truth, which is why war correspondents have played such a crucial role throughout history.  And it hasn’t been just a “boys’ club” – Martha Gellhorn, Rebecca West, and others made a name for themselves reporting from zones of conflict.  More recently, Marie Colvin (tragically killed in Syria in 2012) and Clarissa Ward (author of a new memoir, On All Fronts) have done the same.
Gideon the Ninth
The Crow.
Staff Picks

None More Goth

  • Sara M.
  • Wednesday, September 30
For some people, spooky season is just starting - but for others, spooky season never stops!  Embrace the goth aesthetic with these classic and modern books, movies, and music and seek beauty in the darkness.
Blog
Richland Library Northeast

Halloween Egg Hunt: A Social Distanced Trick-or-Treat Tutorial

  • Shinelle P.
  • Wednesday, September 30

Keeping our distance doesn’t mean we can’t still have fun! A Halloween Egg Hunt is a playful way to keep the Halloween spirit, whether you organize a neighborhood event or just hide the eggs around your home for the kiddos to find. This two-for-one tutorial is a great craft for kids and preparation for a fun Halloween event!

Blog
Richland Library Main

Top 10 Challenged Books of 2019

  • Richland Library
  • Monday, September 28

The American Library Association tracked 377 challenges to library, school, and university materials and services in 2019. Overall, 566 books were targeted. Here are the Top 10 Most Challenged Books in 2019.

Blog
Richland Library Main

Your Privacy + The Census 

  • Zita R.
  • Friday, September 25

The easiest way to prevent a Census worker from knocking on your door is to fill out your Census online now. But what if you are worried about your privacy?

Let It Snow
Let It Snow
Staff Picks

YA Novels to Film

  • Brittany S.
  • Thursday, September 24
The pages of the following novels came to life in movies and television shows. Check out the epic stories that started it all. 
What if It's Us
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian
Staff Picks

Must Read YA Realistic Fiction Novels

  • Brittany S.
  • Thursday, September 24
See Realistic Fiction at its finest. Walk down a school hallway, enter a pageant, and take a life altering trip while delving into these stories. 
Six of Crows
Graceling
Staff Picks

YA Fantasy Gold Mine

  • Brittany S.
  • Thursday, September 24
Take a trip to another realm with adventure around every corner in the following novels. 
The Remaking
The Boatman's Daughter
Staff Picks

It's Spooky Season

  • Morgan R.
  • Wednesday, September 23
Grab your sweater, a hot beverage of choice, and cozy on up with a good book because it's officially Fall, y'all! Here are a few horror novels to get you into the #SpookySzn mood.
Blog
Richland Library North Main

#OwnVoices: Toning the Sweep

  • Jocelyn T.
  • Thursday, June 23

If you've visited the library, you've likely had one of our library staff emphasize the importance of not only reading but that reading builds empathy.

Blog
Richland Library Main

OFF BOOK: Crush Rush

  • Richland Library
  • Friday, June 24

Arts Librarian Ashley Warthen goes off book with photojournalist, Crush Rush to kick off his library residency.  

I Dissent
American Women Activists' Writings
Staff Picks

Remembering Ruth Bader Ginsburg

  • Mahogany S.
  • Monday, September 21
From The Notorious RBG to I Dissent, explore the life and work of Ruth Bader Ginsburg with these books and movies that span all age ranges.
Better Homes and Gardens Wonder Pot
The Official SEC Tailgating Cookbook.
Staff Picks

Food to Fall For

  • Rhonda H.
  • Monday, September 21
Does the chill in the air make you crave hardier fare? Then check out one of these delectable delights!
Ruth Objects
On the Basis of Sex
Staff Picks

RIP RBG

  • Bland L.
  • Monday, September 21
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died on Friday, Sept.
The Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree
The Index of Self-Destructive Acts
Staff Picks

2020 National Book Awards: The Long Lists

  • Bland L.
  • Friday, September 18
The long lists for the 2020 National Book Awards have just been announced.  The winners will be announced on November 18.  Check out the following titles from our collection in the award categories of fiction, nonfiction, literature in translation, young people's literature, and poetry.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Latinos/as, Hispanics, LatinX in the Census

  • Mayte Velasco Nicolas
  • Thursday, September 17

The first Latinos in the United States of America settled in Florida in 1565 but the U.S. Census did not recognize this population until 1980--leaving their identity in limbo.

Blog
Richland Library Main

#OwnVoices: Rabbit: The Autobiography of Ms. Pat

  • Ronisha J.
  • Thursday, June 23

This autobiography lets us know that we do not have to remain in our circumstance. If we want better, we can work to achieve better. It is OK to get help from others along the way. 

Blog
Richland Library Main

All About Reading

  • Emily J.
  • Tuesday, August 31

Many of us have started homeschooling for the first time this year, whether it’s a virtual option through our school districts or we’ve decided to take on the role of classroom teacher ourselves.  Richland Library’s Education Studio has reading curriculum to help guide you through your new position as homeschool teacher or reading tutor

Blog
Richland Library Main

Voting in Columbia, a historical perspective

  • Margaret D.
  • Monday, September 28

The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy, granting the right to have a voice in our society. For anyone deprived of these rights, the struggle to secure them has been worth the fight. Explore some historic touchpoints that converge around the evolution of the right to vote in Columbia.

Amnesty
Destination Wedding
Staff Picks

31 Outstanding Fiction Books by Indian Authors

  • Mona Verma
  • Monday, September 14
Mark Twain has said, "India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grand mother of tradition. Our most valuable and most artistic materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only!" Apart from travel,the next best way to learn about a country and its people is through its books. India has several accomplished and award winning authors who have weaved magical works of fiction.
Black Sunday
Clap when You Land
Staff Picks

2020 Kirkus Prize Finalists

  • Bland L.
  • Thursday, September 10
The finalists for this year's Kirkus Prize have just been announced.  The prize, which was created in 2014, goes to books in the categories of fiction, nonfiction, and young readers' literature.  The winners in the three categories will be announced on November 5.  Check out the finalists listed below from our collection.
Great Women Artists
Indian Architecture
Staff Picks

Indian Art

  • Morgan R.
  • Thursday, September 10
Explore the world of Indian art and its vast history, interpretations, and celebration of culture.
Blog
Richland Library Main

The Census Through The Centuries

  • Dusty R.
  • Tuesday, September 29

Because of the “72 year rule,” the 2020 Census will not be available for genealogists until 2092. When it is released, will your descendants be able to find you in the 2020 Census?

All About Reading, Level 1, Teacher's Manual
All About Reading, Level 2, Teacher's Manual
Staff Picks

Reading Curriculum: All About Reading

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, September 09
Looking an easy to follow reading curriculum?  All About Reading is a one-stop shop for quality reading materials. Find all of these titles and more in Richland Library's Education Studio.  Questions? We are here to help. Contact the Richland Library Education Studio and we'll help you find the best materials to suit your needs. 
Our Time is Now
Our Time Is Now
Staff Picks

The Power of the Vote

  • Heather M.
  • Wednesday, September 09
Voting is a fundamental right for every adult citizen in a democracy.  This right has not always been guaranteed or given to every citizen.  Discover the history and the people who fought and continue to fight for the power of the vote.   Looking for even more good books?  Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084.
Blog
Richland Library Main

The Power of the Vote

  • Heather M.
  • Wednesday, September 09

Voting is a fundamental right for every adult citizen in a democracy.  Richland Library's staff is working to make sure that every resident has the information and resources they need to successfully engage in the political process, ensuring their voice is heard.

Blog
Richland Library Main

The Virtual Job Interview

  • Bland L.
  • Tuesday, December 15

Job interviews conducted via videoconferencing programs such as Zoom and Skype were already in wide use before the coronavirus pandemic, but for understandable reasons they are now more popular than ever.  Just as for an in-person interview, you should carefully prepare beforehand, but there are other considerations specific to virtual interviewing that you will need to keep in mind.

Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Staff Picks

Author Spotlight: Mariko Tamaki

  • Thomas M.
  • Friday, September 04
Mariko Tamaki was born in Toronto, Ontario. Her writing often deals with the inner turmoil of teenagers, especially in titles such as Skim and This One Summer, both illustrated by her cousin Jillian Tamaki, as well as Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me, illustrated by Rosemary Valer-O’Connell.  Tamaki’s protagonists are marked by her talent for writing authentic flaws and personal conflict.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Mariko Tamaki

  • Thomas M.
  • Sunday, September 06

Mariko Tamaki was born in Toronto, Ontario. Her writing often deals with the inner turmoil of teenagers, especially in titles such as Skim and This One Summer, both illustrated by her cousin Jillian Tamaki, as well as Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me, illustrated by Rosemary Valer-O’Connell.  Tamaki’s protagonists are marked by her talent for writing authentic flaws and personal conflict.

The Silence of the Girls
Milkman
Staff Picks

2020 International Dublin Literary Award: The Short List

  • Bland L.
  • Friday, September 04
The short list for this year's International Dublin Literary Award has just been announced.  Established in 1994, this is one of the largest literary prizes around, at €100,000, and is awarded to a novel written or translated into English.  The winner will be announced on October 22.  In the meantime, check out the ten short list titles from our collection.  (Seven of the ten have already won other major literary prizes.)
Dune
Foundation
Staff Picks

Space Opera

  • Kristin A.
  • Thursday, September 03
Craving dramatic, large-scale science fiction adventure and characters you won't soon forget? Travel the stars with these Space Opera titles and discover your new out of this world read.  Looking for more great titles? Find your new favorite title using our Personalized Reading Recommendations. 
Blog
Richland Library North Main

Stand Up and Be Counted! : Four Facts for Census 2020

  • Mahogany S.
    Sarah C.
  • Tuesday, September 08

Census 2020 ends on September 30 and it isn’t too late for you to take part! Read on to find out how you can participate and learn a few facts to help understand why a complete count is so important.

The Job
The Globotics Upheaval
Staff Picks

Labor and Its Discontents

  • Bland L.
  • Thursday, September 03
The world of work was being upended even before the coronavirus pandemic drove the US unemployment rate to record highs.  The “gig economy,” robotics, and offshoring, to name but a few factors, have reshaped traditional employment in ways that are not yet fully understood.  As we observe Labor Day, this is a good time to take a look at how we got here and what may be in store for us in the labor market.  The books listed below offer a range of views on the subject, from critiques of Silicon Valley’s role in degrading work life to constructive advice on finding mea
Blog
Richland Library Main

Most Popular Historic Images in August 2020

  • Margaret D.
  • Tuesday, October 06

With over 7,000 images in the Local History Digital Collections it can be hard to find those hidden gems. Take a look at what your neighbors found interesting in August, 2020.

Blog
Richland Library Edgewood

#OwnVoices: Crown

  • DJ Barber
  • Thursday, June 23

Derrick Barnes captures one of the most pivotal moments of a black boy’s life: his first haircut.

The Ballad of Black Tom
Kindred
Staff Picks

After Lovecraft

  • Sara M.
  • Monday, August 31
Check out this list of books that engage with Lovecraftian cosmic horror ideas and with Lovecraft's xenophobia and bigotry.
Blog
Richland Library Main

How to Vote Absentee in the General Election

  • Allison T.
  • Thursday, October 22

While voters in South Carolina could place their vote via absentee ballot in the primary in June, simply due to the presence of the virus, this is not the case for the general election in November. Voters have to meet certain criteria and there are guidelines for who can vote absentee and how.

The Discomfort of Evening
The Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree
Staff Picks

2020 International Booker Prize

  • Bland L.
  • Thursday, August 27
The International Booker Prize was created in 2004 to recognize fictional works that weren't eligible for the regular Booker Prize (awarded to authors hailing from anywhere in the British Commonwealth).  This year's winner is Dutch author Marieke Lucas Rijneveld for her debut novel, The Discomfort of Evening, about a young girl from a farming family who blames herself when tragedy befalls them.
Blog
Richland Library Main

The Power of Protest

  • Heather M.
  • Wednesday, September 09

Injustice calls for action. If you are ready to take a stand, Richland Library is here connect you with resources and knowledge. 

Blog
Richland Library Main

#OwnVoices: Children of Blood and Bone

  • Ariel H.
  • Thursday, June 23

Seventeen-year-old Zélie, her older brother Tzain, and rogue princess Amari fight to restore magic to the land and activate a new generation of magi, but they are ruthlessly pursued by the crown prince, who believes the return of magic will mean the end of the monarchy.

When They Call You a Terrorist
John Lewis
Staff Picks

The Power of Protest

  • Heather M.
  • Thursday, August 20
Black protest has power.  The power to change minds, laws, even nations.  Black protest shapes history and leaders.  Learn more about the triumphs and the struggles of black protest and activism by checking out these titles today.   Looking for even more good books?  Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084.
Between the World and Me
The Water Dancer
Staff Picks

Thought Leaders to Read

  • Morgan R.
  • Wednesday, August 19
Thought leaders are the go-to people that we turn to to get inspiration for a movement; their ideas and actions are influential and substantial.Here are a few folx who are leading the charge of race, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Give their books a read, follow them on social media and then feel free to share key takeaways, interesting articles, or your personal experiences on our Let's Talk Race padlet.
Blog
Richland Library North Main

#OwnVoices: The Vanishing Half - A Review

  • Mahogany S.
  • Thursday, June 23

The Vanishing Half is a bittersweet look into the lives of twin sisters and how they deal with separation, betrayal, abuse, and a changing world. The sisters deal with the oppressive weight of being black in a time where lynchings were still commonplace as children, where light skin is seen as preferential and passing for white is as taboo as it is desirable.

Spin
Black Enough
Staff Picks

Author Spotlight: Lamar Giles

  • Richland Library
  • Friday, August 14
Lamar Giles is an author, speaker and founding member of We Need Diverse Books.  He sold his first short story at age 21.  He independently published his novels and short stories under the pen name L.R.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Lamar Giles

  • Richland Library
  • Friday, August 14

Lamar Giles is an author, speaker and founding member of We Need Diverse Books.  He sold his first short story at age 21.  He independently published his novels and short stories under the pen name L.R. Giles before his debut young adult novel, Fake ID, was published by Harper Collins in 2014.  Giles has gone on to publish two middle grade and five young adult novels while simultaneously editing and contributing to multiple young adult and middle grade anthologies.

The Overstory
Americanah
Staff Picks

Literary Fiction

  • Kristin A.
  • Thursday, August 13
Known for its complex form, language, and style, Literary Fiction often explores the facets of the human condition and aims to provide insight that creates a stronger understanding of the world.  Looking for more great titles? Find your new favorite title using our Personalized Reading Recommendations.
Marked
Demon in My View
Staff Picks

​Nostalgic Teen Vampire Reads

  • Alison B.
  • Wednesday, August 12
The recent release of Midnight Sun, the fifth book in the Twilight saga, may have you craving more of that supernatural, vampire romance and angst. We've got you covered with all the old teen favorites and maybe some you may have missed. Sink your teeth into these for forbidden love, boarding school drama, dark and mysterious secrets, and more.  Want more recommendations? Try out our our Personalized Recommendations form to find your next great read!
Blog
Richland Library Main

Finding Your Character's Voice

  • Heather M.
  • Monday, August 10

One of the hardest parts of the writing process is the blank page staring back at you.  Writing a monologue is a good way to get your creative juices flowing and find your character's voice.  

I Saw Your Face
Soul Looks Back in Wonder
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Tom Feelings

  • Leslie Tetreault
  • Friday, August 07
Tom Feelings made his mark as one of the most important and influential artists and illustrators in all of children’s literature. He was dedicated to drawing black people, and especially children, so they would see themselves as beautiful and proud. 
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Tom Feelings

  • Leslie Tetreault
  • Wednesday, August 12

Tom Feelings made his mark as one of the most important and influential artists and illustrators in all of children’s literature. He was dedicated to drawing black people, and especially children, so they would see themselves as beautiful and proud. 

To Hell and Back
Harry S. Truman and the Bomb
Staff Picks

The Bomb, 75 Years On

  • Bland L.
  • Thursday, August 06
August 6, 2020, marks the 75th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, an event that hastened the end of World War II but also caused the deaths of an estimated 70,000-126,000 Japanese civilians.  It also inaugurated the Cold War and the costly arms race that gripped the world for the next few decades.
Blog
Richland Library Main

#OwnVoices: Ghost and Patina

  • Cassie G.
  • Thursday, June 23

In my opinion Jason Reynolds's work connects to everyone but especially kids in the same type of urban background that he himself is from. His style of writing draws people in regardless of age or race and that is something that I love in an author.

Blog
Richland Library Main

Explore a New Hobby

  • Emily Stoll
  • Tuesday, August 04

If you're looking to try something new, our staff is sharing some ideas that can potentially turn into hobbies.

Blog
Richland Library Main

Most Popular Historic Images in July 2020

  • Margaret D.
  • Wednesday, September 02

With over 7,000 images in the Local History Digital Collections it can be hard to find those hidden gems. Take a look at what your neighbors found interesting in July, 2020.

Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Nnedi Okorafor

  • Thomas M.
  • Friday, July 31

Nnedimma Nkemdili "Nnedi" Okorafor's body of work includes short stories, comics, and books for a variety of ages.  She has won multiple awards--everything from a World Fantasy Award (2011) to a Nebula and Hugo Award (2016).  Most recently, she was recognized by the Eisner Awards for her comic, LaGuardia (2020).  Ms. Okorafor continues to make her mark in the world of young adult and adult literature drawing on her African roots to imagine a truly brave new world.  

Outbreaks and Epidemics
The Bird Way
Staff Picks

New in Science

  • Bland L.
  • Friday, July 31
Most of these new science books are already available as ebooks, with print copies available or on order in some cases.  Needless to say, Debora MacKenzie’s COVID-19 and Meera Senthilingam’s Outbreaks and Epidemics have been getting a lot of notice.  Other intriguing titles include Paul Sutter’s
Akata Witch
Black Panther. Long Live the King
Staff Picks

Author Spotlight: Nnedi Okorafor

  • Thomas M.
  • Tuesday, July 28
Nnedimma Nkemdili "Nnedi" Okorafor's body of work includes short stories, comics, and books for a variety of ages.  She has won multiple awards--everything from a World Fantasy Award (2011) to a Nebula and Hugo Award (2016).  Most recently, she was recognized by the Eisner Awards for her comic, LaGuardia (2020).  Ms.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Hone Your Musical Genius

  • Cecil D.
  • Friday, September 01

Making music is incredibly rewarding. You can tell your story in a million different creative ways, change moods, and create communities.

Blog
Richland Library Main

Painting on the Patio

  • Sarah Gough
  • Saturday, July 25

Watch artist Keith Tolen's painting process as he creates a unique portrait. Then head outside and try out some plein air painting for yourself. 

Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me
Drawing Power
Staff Picks

2020 Eisner Award Winners

  • Thomas M.
  • Saturday, July 25
Check out the winners of the 2020 Eisner Awards, announced at San Diego Comic-Con. You can see a full list of categories, nominees, and winners here, as well as the broadcast of the awards hosted by Phil LaMarr here. Keep in mind that Eisner categories span across various creative roles, formats, and target age ranges.
Women of Color in Tech
Farm the City
Staff Picks

New Business Books

  • Bland L.
  • Wednesday, July 22
Most of these recently published business titles are already available in e-book format, with print copies on order in some cases.  Among the notable new books is Susanne Tedrick’s Women of Color in Tech: A Blueprint for Inspiring and Mentoring the Next Generation of Technology Innovators, which one reviewer describes as “most valuable in its close focus on the realities of the tech world.”  Also getting a lot of buzz is
The Friend
A Dog's Purpose
Staff Picks

The Dog Days of Summer

  • Kristin A.
  • Wednesday, July 22
Too hot to go outside? Then stay in and chill with your favorite canine companion and one of these great reads! Not finding what you are looking for? Call us at 803-799-9084 for more great suggestions.
Blog
Richland Library North Main

#OwnVoices: The March Trilogy

  • Jocelyn T.
  • Thursday, June 23

On Friday, July 17, 2020, the world felt a little dimmer, as we lost Civil Rights leader and hero Congressman John Lewis. This was an immense loss that seemed to take away a light that shined so brightly, but we will always have this light.

Blog
Richland Library Southeast

Making Your Way: Plein Air au Maison

  • Amy A.
  • Saturday, October 10

Find a view that speaks to you, pick up your pencil, grab some paper and get yourself lost on your own magic carpet ride to somewhere beautiful.