Staff Picks

Retirement Ready

Become fiscally fit! Whether you are just starting out at your first job or are approaching retirement age, here are a few books to help navigate the daunting world of investing for the future.  For more resources, be sure to check out LinkedIn Learning's Personal Finance courses, and Morningstar Investment Research Center where you can find a retirement calculator along with thousands of articles and other helpful planning tools.
Staff Picks

LibraryReads for April 2023

Each month, LibraryReads lists the top upcoming titles recommended by librarians across the country.  All these books will be published in April 2023, so stay ahead of the curve and get on the holds list now!
Blog
Richland Library Ballentine

Pollinator Gardening with Native Plants

Come visit the Pollinator Garden at Ballentine to see what one can look like. Read this blog post to learn why it's important to use native plants in your garden!

Blog
Richland Library Main

Remembering Dixie Super Market

From 1937 to 1988 there was a unique supermarket at 1438 Assembly Street where folks from the surrounding neighborhoods could buy local meat and produce.

Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Booker Nominees, Part Three

Check out these fiction titles and fulfill the prompt "read a book written by a Booker Prize or National Book Award nominated author". This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Booker Nominees, Part Two

Check out these fiction titles and fulfill the prompt "read a book written by a Booker Prize or National Book Award nominated author". This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Booker Nominees, Part One

Check out these fiction titles and fulfill the prompt "read a book written by a Booker Prize or National Book Award nominated author". This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

Books by Trans Authors

Looking for books to add to your #TransRightsReadathon reading list?  This list of books by trans authors has a little bit of everything, from memoir to romance to sci fi to horror! 
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Richland Library Main

First Steps to the Library: Learning is Never Far Away

First Steps to the Library highlights the skills young children need to be ready for school and helps caregivers understand how they can grow these skills.  This month's school readiness skill is about spatial awareness.  

Staff Picks

If You Liked Everything Everywhere All at Once

With its incredible visuals and heartfelt story, Everything Everywhere All At Once has captured movie-goers hearts (as well as several awards). If you can't stop thinking about this film, then let one of these novels take you on a wild ride! Get ready to immerse yourself in new worlds and alternate realities, and go deeper to explore your relationships and intergenerational traumas. When you are done reading these books, you’ll realize that the universe is so much bigger than you realize. 
Staff Picks

Her Story: Women Who Changed the World

Women have been changing the world since the beginning, but their work often goes unacknowledged. In honor of Women's History Month, here are just a few titles about remarkable, trailblazing women throughout history. Feel inspired by these stories about women who stood up, spoke out, struggled through, and soared. 
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Richland Library Main

Celebrating Martha Cramer

Almost lost to history, Mrs. Martha Cramer was instrumental in establishing Columbia’s first public library. We at Richland Library owe her a debt of gratitude for spearheading the creation of our current library system more than 125 years ago.

Staff Picks

LibraryReads for March 2023

Each month, LibraryReads lists the top upcoming titles recommended by librarians across the country.  All these books will be published in March 2023, so stay ahead of the curve and get on the holds list now!
Blog
Richland Library Main

Tribute to Drink Small

Drink Small, a local musical treasure, recently turned 90 years old. Let’s reflect on Mr. Small’s career and legacy.

Staff Picks

If You Liked... The Last of Us

Trekking across post-apocalyptic landscapes. Surviving in a broken world. Watching morality corrode as infection compromises everything. Never giving up on the one person you can trust. These are just some of the themes evoked by The Last of Us, and you will also find them in the reading experiences below.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (Information)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (Graphic Novel)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

Gardening for Butterflies

Learn how to garden for all kinds of wildlife - butterflies, bees, birds, and more - using these books! 
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (Social Issues)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (Fiction)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

It's the End of the World (as We Know It)

If you are a fan of HBO's The Last of Us, explore these newer apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic fiction titles that will keep you entertained until the next episode drops. Want more? Click here to get your personalized reading recommendations.
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Richland Library Main

History of Richland Library

To mark the 30th anniversary of the opening of the Main Library at 1431 Assembly Street, I decided to take a look back at the Richland Libraries of years past.

Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (Sci-Fi)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
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Richland Library Southeast

Paper Quilling Craft

Learn the art of Paper Quilling and create something for someone you care about.

Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (Biography)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Coming of Age Tales - Fiction, Part Two

Check out these titles to fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 prompt to "read a coming-of-age tale or a novel narrated by a child".   See Part One of this list here. This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

Love your library!

As we celebrate our library's 30th anniversary this month, we thought we would highlight some streaming videos about libraries. Check out these awesome titles. Happy Valentine's Day!
Staff Picks

Cat Manga To Get Your Paws On

We're not kitten about these manga! Check out the coziest, the creepiest, and the scariest stories featuring librarians' favorite animal--cats.  
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (Business)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Books Written by Japanese Authors

Fulfill the "Read a book written by an author of Chinese, Japanese, Korean or Vietnamese descent" prompt with these titles. This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 reading challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Books Written by Vietnamese Authors

Fulfill the "Read a book written by an author of Chinese, Japanese, Korean or Vietnamese descent" prompt with these titles. This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 reading challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Books Written by Korean Authors

Fulfill the "Read a book written by an author of Chinese, Japanese, Korean or Vietnamese descent" prompt with these titles. This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 reading challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Books Written by Asian Authors

Fulfill the "Read a book written by an author of Chinese, Japanese, Korean or Vietnamese descent" prompt with these titles. This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 reading challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

Tween Books for International Holocaust Remembrance Day

The United Nations observes January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day as it's the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp. Six million Jews died through systemic persecution under the Nazi regime 1933-1945. Now more than ever, it's crucial to talk to kids about important events in history. Check out these books for kids aged 9+ for age appropriate fiction and nonfiction books about the Holocaust.   Visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum website for more information: https://www.ushmm.org/ 
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (Artificial Intelligence)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Coming of Age Tales - International Fiction

Check out these titles from international authors and fulfill the prompt to "read a coming-of-age tale or a novel narrated by a child". This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

Cozy Fantasy

Looking for a low-stakes and comforting book? A cozy fantasy may be just what you're looking for. Featuring goodhearted characters, supportive friends, magical elements, and often even found family, cozy fantasies are a great palate cleanser between epic fantasy reads, or just when you are looking for a heart-warming book to curl up with.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Coming of Age Tales - Historical Fiction

In the mood for something historical?  Check out one of these titles and fulfill the prompt to read a "coming-of-age tale or a novel narrated by a child". This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
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Richland Library Main

Books & Biscuits

What could be better for our biscuit-loving bibliophiles than reading recommendations that pair perfectly with your favorite Rambo's Fat Cat menu items? 

Staff Picks

LibraryReads for February 2023

Each month, LibraryReads lists the top upcoming titles recommended by librarians across the country.  All these books will be published in February 2023, so stay ahead of the curve and get on the holds list now!
Blog
Richland Library Main

Be Business Smart: How to Pitch Your Business

If you are a small business owner and don't already have an elevator pitch for your business, you should!  "An elevator pitch sums up the unique aspects of your business or personal brand and gets a conversation started." --Adam Uzialko, Business News Daily, 6/29/2022

Jun 26 6:00 p.m.

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Richland Library Main

Vista Book Group

Join us for a book group discussion of this month’s title, Murder in Old Bombay by Nev March

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Audience(s):

May 22 6:00 p.m.

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Richland Library Main

Vista Book Group

Join us for a book group discussion of this month’s title, Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy

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Audience(s):

Apr 24 6:00 p.m.

Event
Richland Library Main

Vista Book Group

Join us for a book group discussion of this month’s title, The Mountains Sing by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai’

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Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Technology (History)

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a fiction or nonfiction book about technology".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Read an Author's Debut Title (Romance)

Fulfill the "Read a book written by an author of Chinese, Japanese, Korean or Vietnamese descent" prompt with these titles. This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 reading challenge. Find more lists here.  
Staff Picks

R.I.P. David Crosby

David Crosby (1941-2023) was a singer, songwriter and guitarist who was best known as a member of the supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash (and sometimes Young). He was also a founding member of the Byrds. He was twice inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his work with both of these groups.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Poetry After 2003 - Award Winning Authors

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a collection of poetry published since 2003".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Coming of Age Tales - Fantasy, Horror, and Sci-fi

Looking to fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 prompt "read a coming-of-age tale or a novel narrated by a child" and in the mood for something a little fantastical or spooky?  Check out these titles! This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Poetry After 2003 - Prosaic & Poetic

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a collection of poetry published since 2003".  (These titles are by authors who write novels and articles in addition to poetry). This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Coming of Age Tales - Southern Fiction

All of these titles have a Southern flavor and fulfill the prompt to read "a coming-of-age tale or a novel narrated by a child". This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
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Richland Library Main

Giving Horror a Chance

I am not a fan of Horror books--psychological, thriller, slasher--essentially anything with even a remotely scary feel has me quaking in my ballet flats. Which is why I was shocked to find myself literally hanging on to every word during Stephen Graham Jones' recent visit to Richland Library.

Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Poetry After 2003 - Translations

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a collection of poetry published since 2003".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

LibraryReads for January 2023

Each month, LibraryReads lists the top upcoming titles recommended by librarians across the country.  All these books will be published in January 2023, so stay ahead of the curve and get on the holds list now!
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Poetry After 2003 - Debut Titles

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a collection of poetry published since 2003".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Poetry After 2003 - More than 100 pages

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a collection of poetry published since 2003".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
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Richland Library North Main

Ring Shout - A Review

I ain’t no scared girl no more. I hunt monsters—they don’t hunt me. So now I’m about to do something real brave or stupid.

Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023: Protagonists Over 50

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the 2023 Broader Bookshelf prompt "Read a book where the protagonist or subject is age 50 or older" - from science fiction to lit fic to romance! This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Staff Picks

#BroaderBookshelf 2023 - Poetry After 2003 - Collections

Check out one of these titles and fulfill the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge prompt "read a collection of poetry published since 2003".  This list is part of the #BroaderBookshelf 2023 Reading Challenge. Find more lists here.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Make New Friends, But Keep the Old

Making new friends as an adult can be intimidating, but the library is the perfect place to get started. With books offering tips of the trade and numerous events at which to meet new people, you'll have grown your social circle and confidants in no time. 

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Richland Library Main

What's your resolution?

No matter what your resolutions are for the new year, we hope that the library can play a part in helping you achieve your goals.

Blog
Richland Library Main

Top Checkouts of 2022

2022 was chock-full of throwback picks from old favorites, a swath of romance and thrillers, and some pretty solid streaming queues for all ages. Here's a look at the top 10 books, movies, and songs by age group and format. 

Staff Picks

New Business Books

Notable new titles include Walt Bogdanich’s When McKinsey Comes to Town, about the influential and controversial consulting firm known for the draconian measures it often recommends to its client businesses, and Gary Rivlin’s Saving Main Street, about the re
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Richland Library Main

Money Goals For The New Year

There are a lot of financial websites and blogs about New Year’s money resolutions. What do people actually want to accomplish, though?

Staff Picks

New Superhero Comics of 2022

This year saw its share of fresh superhero stories. Each of these titles could be the jumping-on point that delivers you into a larger universe of heroes and villains or brings you closer to a familiar favorite. Who will you meet next?
Staff Picks

#FinLit Reviews Booklist

The months of #FinLit Book Review blog posts are adding up. Here is a handy list of all of the fiction and nonfiction reviewed for their financial literacy value on the Richland Library blog.
Staff Picks

New in Science

Among the latest science titles are two from award-winning authors whose books regularly appear on the nonfiction best-seller lists.  Unlike most previous books on Covid-19, which have focused on the medical drama of the pandemic, David Quammen’s Breathless takes a purely scientific perspective on the struggle to understand the virus.  Siddhartha Mukherjee’s