Blog
Richland Library Main

DIY Storytime: Grace for President

  • Children's Room
  • Tuesday, October 12
Curated storytimes that families can share at home with an ebook (Grace for President), songs and rhymes ( Sunny Day by Elizabeth Mitchell, I Am Special and Young Soul by Secret Agent 23 Skidoo) and activities (Make Your Own Campaign Poster, "If I Were President," Make Your Own "I Voted" Badge & Design Your Own Readers Make Leaders Bookmark)
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

iRead: Sharon Draper

  • Caitlin B.
  • Friday, October 09
“I learned to dream through reading, learned to create dreams through writing, and learned to develop dreamers through teaching. I shall always be a dreamer. Come dream with me."--Sharon Draper
Tears of a Tiger
Blended
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Sharon Draper

  • Caitlin B.
  • Friday, September 25
Sharon Draper (born 1948) grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, where she majored in English at Pepperdine University then earned her Masters of Arts in English at Miami University of Ohio. Always an avid reader, Draper taught at Cincinnati public schools.
Electricity in Your Life
Buried Sunlight
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Understanding & Saving Energy

  • Heather M.
  • Thursday, September 24
How is electricity made? And how does it get to my house? From understanding the basics of electricity to a mystery complete with experiments, this list has all that you need to become an energy expert. And...just in time for Energy Action Month, learn about alternative energy like solar and wind and how to conserve and save energy. Energy expert? You'll be an energy star!
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

DIY Storytime: Grandma's Tiny House

  • Children's Room
  • Tuesday, December 07
Curated storytimes that families can share at home with an ebook (Grandma's Tiny House: A Counting Story), songs and rhymes ( Dos Manitos Diez Deditos and 5 Green & Speckled Frogs) and activities (Counting with Nature, Matching with LEGOs & Number Scavenger Hunt).
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.
Ruth Objects
On the Basis of Sex
Staff Picks

RIP RBG

  • Bland L.
  • Monday, September 21
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died on Friday, Sept.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: The Tía Lola Stories Series

  • Leslie Tetreault
  • Monday, September 21
A touchstone series of cultural identity for middle grade readers, these novels center around 11-year-old Miguel Guzman and his sister Juanita, who move from New York City to Vermont with their recently divorced mother. His flamboyant tía Lola arrives just as he’s trying to fit into a mostly white farming community. But her charm and cooking enthrall the family and neighbors, and teach them much about life, family, the Latinx culture, and community.
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

iRead: Joyce Hansen

  • Children's Room
  • Friday, September 25
Joyce Hansen is the author of many novels and nonfiction works for children and young adults. Her books are a mixture of contemporary and historical fiction, and she has also written and contributed to several works of non-fiction focused on African American historical subjects. Ms. Hansen currently lives in the midlands of South Carolina, and continues to write for youth.
The Heart Calls Home
But That's Another Story
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Joyce Hansen

  • Children's Room
  • Friday, September 11
Joyce Hansen is the author of many novels and nonfiction works for children and young adults. Her books are a mixture of contemporary and historical fiction, and she has also written and contributed to several works of non-fiction focused on African American historical subjects.
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.
Lillian's Right to Vote
Election Collection
Staff Picks

The Power of the Vote for Families

  • Heather M.
  • Wednesday, September 09
Voting is a fundamental right for every adult citizen in a democracy. Sharing books together is a great way to introduce our civic responsibility, the history and 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 Edgewood

Dinner Table Talks: Dreamers

  • Taelor J.
    Heather M.
    Jocelyn T.
  • Thursday, June 23
Dinner Table Talks create the opportunity for families to have important conversations centered around books. These discussions will build our capacity for talking about race and define our roles in fighting against both everyday and systemic racism.
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.
Blog
Richland Library Main

DIY Storytime: Back to School: A Global Journey

  • Children's Room
  • Monday, August 24
Curated storytimes that families can share at home with an ebook (Back to School: A Global Journey), songs and poems ( Yo Te Amo and There's a Dog in School) and activities (DIY School Accessories: Homework Caddy, Pompom Bookmark and Paper Bag Book Cover).
Lift As You Climb
Dreams of Freedom
Staff Picks

The Power of Protest for Families

  • Heather M.
  • Saturday, August 22
Inspire your future leaders with these stories of people who made a difference. Discover how these activists found their voice, fought for their rights and used the power of protest to create change. You can also take action with our DIY Storytime: Get Up, Stand Up.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Nikki Grimes

  • Children's Room
  • Monday, August 24
Born and raised in New York City, Nikki Grimes has earned several accolades for her writing and poetry. She writes so that children will see themselves in literature.
Kamala Harris
Almost Zero
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Nikki Grimes

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, August 21
Born and raised in New York City, Nikki Grimes has earned several accolades for her writing and poetry. Ms. Grimes has said that reading and writing helped her get through her darkest times as a child. Helping children process grief through stories is a significant part of her writing. She wants children to see themselves in literature.
Front Desk
Yes! We Are Latinos
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Immigrant & Refugee Stories in Novels

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, August 21
Children and families immigrate or flee their country because of war, hunger or the dream of something greater. But life in their new home isn't always easy and everyone isn't always welcoming. Read these stories to find out how they figure it out, make friends and how they embrace their new life while holding firm to who they are.
In the Spirit of the Studio
Staff Picks

Back to School... at Home: The Book List

  • Laura Rogers
  • Friday, August 21
It is time to set up space for your school year. Starting at home? Check out these great titles that will inspire you to create a space that is fun and functional for you and your children. Study, explore, create, and make the grade!
Islandborn
The Big Umbrella
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Immigrant and Refugee Stories in Picture Books

  • Jocelyn T.
  • Thursday, August 20
Children and families immigrate or flee their country because of war, hunger, or the dream of something greater. However, life in their new home isn't always easy, and everyone isn't always welcoming. Read these stories to find out how they figure it out, make friends, and how they embrace their new life while holding firm to who they are.
A Dragon's Guide to the Care and Feeding of Humans
Endling #1
Staff Picks

If You Like Wings of Fire, then try...

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, August 14
For fans craving adventure, talking animals and dragons (of course), check out one of these new middle grade fantasies today. Looking for even more good books? Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084.
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.
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.
All the Water in the World
Water
Staff Picks

All the Water in the World: Children's Books about Water

  • Rebecca T.
  • Friday, August 07
Raindrops, rivers, oceans, ice. Water, in all its different forms, is all around us. While some of us are lucky to have reliable access to water, for many others, the search for clean water is a daily struggle. Dive into some of these books to help your children understand the power of water, the importance of keeping our waterways clean and the global issues of water scarcity and conservation.
Blog
Richland Library Blythewood

Create Your Own Bubbles + Wand

  • Kelly H.
  • Monday, August 03
You can buy commercial bubble solution and plastic wands, or you can make your own for a day filled with both learning and fun.
Blog
Richland Library North Main

Dinner Table Talks: New Kid

  • Jocelyn T.
    Heather M.
  • Thursday, June 23
Dinner Table Talks create the opportunity for families to have important conversations centered around books. These discussions will build our capacity for talking about race and define our roles in fighting against both everyday and systemic racism.
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.
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.
My Rainbow
Neither
Staff Picks

Read All About It: LGBTQIA+ Picture Books

  • Heather M.
  • Tuesday, July 28
Read the rainbow and discover these LGBTQIA+ picture books that show us love is love and that we are truly free to be you and me. Looking for more good books? Get personalized reading recommendation lists  from children's literature experts.
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.
Blog
Richland Library Main

DIY Musical Instruments

  • Sarah Gough
  • Saturday, July 25
Create a musical ensemble using everyday materials you can find around your house and yard.
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.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: 50 Years with Frog and Toad

  • Caitlin B.
  • Thursday, July 30
iRead features the best ebooks, eaudiobooks and print books for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. Arnold Lobel’s Frog and Toad celebrate fifty years of friendship this summer and honestly, their loving relationship couldn’t be timelier, as we all search for deepening our friendships and relationships during this time of isolation and social distancing.
Hank's Big Day
Pierre & Paul
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Friendships Inspired by Frog & Toad

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, July 24
In this new world of social distancing and self-isolation, we’re all finding out how important it is to have good friends. We hope you enjoy these charming stories of friendships, inspired by Frog and Toad. Fans of Frog and Toad may want to check out our DIY Storytime: Frog and Toads Are Friends.
Blog
Richland Library Main

DIY Storytime: Frog and Toad Are Friends

  • Children's Room
  • Monday, August 24
Curated storytimes that families can share at home with an ebook (Frog and Toad Are Friends), songs and poems ( Jambo; Hello, Friends; and I Am a Little Toad) and activities (Search and Find Jar).
What is Given from the Heart
The 20th Century Children's Book Treasury
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Patricia McKissack

  • Children's Room
  • Friday, July 17
In her lifetime, Patricia McKissack authored and co-authored more than 100 books for children and teens. When asked, “Why do you write?” Ms. McKissack said, “I write because there is a need to have books for, by, and about the African American experience and how we helped to develop this country." Ms. McKissack crafted her stories with grace and truth and she leaves behind a legacy of award-winning books.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Patricia McKissack

  • Children's Room
  • Friday, July 31
In her lifetime, Patricia McKissack authored and co-authored more than 100 books about black people for black children and teens. Ms. McKissack crafted her stories with grace and truth and she leaves behind a legacy of award-winning books.
Blog
Richland Library Blythewood

Don't Lose Your Marbles

  • Kelly H.
  • Friday, August 28
A few simple materials and an imagination are all you need to join the growing sport of competitive marbles!
Blog
Richland Library Ballentine

Create Your Own Fairy House

  • Caitlin W.
  • Monday, July 13
What do you get when you combine a scavenger hunt, engineering skills, and imagination? A do-it-yourself fairy house, of course!
Blog
Online

Make Your Own Frog 🐸

  • Kelly Kinard
  • Tuesday, July 07
Make your own frog in celebration of all the different creatures we get to hear and see during the summer months.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Black History is America's History

  • Children's Room
  • Saturday, July 04
iRead features the best ebooks, eaudiobooks and print books for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. Black history is America's history and it's a history that each American should know.
Blog
Richland Library Ballentine

Create Your Own Jump Rope

  • Lynsey C.
  • Friday, August 28
Jumping rope is an iconic summer activity. It is great exercise and has a long and award-winning history in South Carolina. Follow along with this tutorial to learn how to make your own jump rope out of plastic bags and help save the environment at the same time!
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Holding Tight to Family

  • Children's Room
  • Monday, June 29
iRead features the best ebooks and eaudiobooks for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. Celebrate family with Lil Alan, the Gaither sisters and the Watsons by sharing their stories, their connection and their love.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Who's Ready for Some Sports?

  • Emily Stoll
  • Friday, June 26
If you're looking for a little dose of sports, our staff has some great titles that may be up your alley.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Adventures with Kids: Knee Deep in the Garden

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, September 30
Flowers—even weeds—tell an important story about the climate and ecosystem of an area. These simple activities require very little preparation, but they pack a big learning punch.
Like Vanessa
Finding Langston
Staff Picks

Let's Talk Race for Children & Families

  • Children's Room
  • Saturday, June 13
Share these #OwnVoices picture books and middle grade novels together and begin the practice of having regular and honest family conversations about race. Embrace Race offers 10 Tips for Teaching and Talking to Kids About Race that will help you get started.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Let's Talk Race for Children & Families

  • Children's Room
  • Friday, June 05
iRead features the best ebooks and eaudiobooks for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. When it comes to children, adults have the opportunity, through literature and stories, to help children form attitudes which support equity and inclusion, so we have not only an opportunity, but an obligation, to share books reflecting the black experience and written by black authors, with children.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Create Your Own Track Record

  • Laura Bliss Morris
  • Monday, June 01
Take your Summer Learning Challenge to a whole new level this year by creating your own track record from right where you are.
Blog
Richland Library Main

DIY Storytime: Tiny T Rex and the Impossible Hug

  • Children's Room
  • Monday, June 01
Curated storytimes that families can share at home with an ebook (Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug), songs (Open Them, Shut Them; Bounce, Tickle, Hug; and I Have a Little Heart) and activities (Mail a Hug; Whose Hug? Game; and Me Too Game).
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

  • Children's Room
  • Friday, June 05
iRead features the best ebooks and eaudiobooks for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. "May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), celebrating the achievements and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States."--The Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies, apaics.org
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Funny Families

  • Children's Room
  • Friday, May 22
iRead features the best ebooks and eaudiobooks for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. Is your dad driving you crazy or your mom's making you mad? Maybe your little brother's a bother and your big sister is such a pain? Take a breath, grab your Richland Library card, and spend some time with these funny families instead.
The Day-glo Brothers
Ada Twist, Scientist
Staff Picks

Read All About It: STEAM Picture Books

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, May 20
Full STEAM ahead! Picture books about sciene, engineering, art, and math from Richland library's digital collection. To start reading or listening today, all you need is your Richland Library card, a laptop or mobile device and Wi-Fi access. If you don't have a Richland Library card, apply online and start accessing all of our online resources immediately.
Path to the Stars
Rosie Revere and the Raucous Riveters
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Engineering Stories & Facts

  • Heather M.
  • Saturday, May 16
Give yourself a firm foundation by reading or listening to these books featuring stories and facts about architecture and engineering. To start reading or listening today, all you need is your Richland Library card, a laptop or mobile device and Wi-Fi access. If you don't have a Richland Library card, apply online and start accessing all of our online resources immediately.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Fast Friends

  • Children's Room
  • Friday, May 15
iRead features the best ebooks and eaudiobooks for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. Whether it's true blue friends or even a new friend, friendships deeply impact our lives. They teach us about the world and about ourselves. Sometimes we're not ready to learn the lesson until that friend is gone. Discover your own fast friends in this week's iRead picks featuring two middle grade novels and one teen title.
All About Drones
Bertha Takes a Drive
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Technology Stories & Facts

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, May 15
Take off with technology by reading these stories, learning new facts and getting hands-on with your own gizmos and machines. To start reading or listening today, all you need is your Richland Library card, a laptop or mobile device and Wi-Fi access. If you don't have a Richland Library card, apply online and start accessing all of our online resources immediately.
A-B-A-B-A
A Fraction's Goal
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Math Stories, Concepts & Activities

  • Heather M.
  • Wednesday, May 13
Multiply your skills with these stories, concept and activity books that add up to a lot of math fun. To start reading or listening today, all you need is your Richland Library card, a laptop or mobile device and Wi-Fi access. If you don't have a Richland Library card, apply online and start accessing all of our online resources immediately.
Volcanoes!
Hungry Plants
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Science Facts & Activities

  • Heather M.
  • Monday, May 11
Discover awesome science facts and activities about astronomy, exploding ants, the human body and more by reading (or listening to) these great books! To start reading or listening today, all you need is your Richland Library card, a laptop or mobile device and Wi-Fi access. If you don't have a Richland Library card, apply online and start accessing all of our online resources immediately.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: World at War

  • Children's Room
  • Monday, May 11
iRead features the best ebooks and eaudiobooks for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. These new middle grade novels and graphic novel explore the world at war. Revealing that even in our darkest hour, we can still find the light.
The Science Unfair. 2
Ivy + Bean What's the Big Idea?
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Science Stories

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, May 08
Get inspired by reading (or listening to) these great books about space, nature, electricity, time travel and more! To start reading or listening today, all you need is your Richland Library card, a laptop or mobile device and Wi-Fi access. If you don't have a Richland Library card, apply online and start accessing all of our online resources immediately.
Two Hands to Love You
The Berenstain Bears and the Mama's Day Surprise
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Celebrating Moms

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, May 08
Whether it's Mama or Mommy, your mom or someone who is like a mother to you, these wonderful family read alouds and listens will help you celebrate the person who helps you feel safe, gives you courage and makes you feel loved. To start reading or listening today, all you need is your Richland Library card, a laptop or mobile device and Wi-Fi access.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: The Ramona Quimby Audio Collection

  • Children's Room
  • Thursday, April 30
iRead features the best ebooks and eaudiobooks for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. Check out a great audio collection recommended by the Johanssons (Isla and Emily) as one of their favorite family listens.
Blog
Richland Library Main

All Around Town: 7 Days of Family-friendly Activities

  • Laura Bliss Morris
  • Monday, April 27
With a little help from our friends around town, here are some daily suggestions for family-friendly activities—both digital and non—from some of our favorite places that just might get you out of your current rut.
Blog
Richland Library Ballentine

Crafty How-To: Canvas and Thread Wall Art

  • Melissa Sprenne
  • Wednesday, May 27
Learn how to make piece of art for your wall! This craft is suitable for anyone who can safely hold a needle and use a ruler!
Blog
Richland Library Ballentine

Common Backyard Birds

  • Melissa Sprenne
  • Wednesday, May 27
Learn about our most common backyard birds and how to identify the uncommon ones
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Guys Take the Lead

  • Children's Room
  • Saturday, April 25
iRead features the best ebooks and eaudiobooks for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. This time, our staff shares some powerful stories where guys take the lead.