Blog
Richland Library Main

Becoming a Poll Manager

The 2020 election was one for the books with the record breaking poll numbers and poll worker shortages due to COVID-19. But with a little training, I was able to not only use my voice by voting, but also to help others participate in the power of using theirs by becoming a poll manager.
Staff Picks

Friendship

Friendships near and far Connecting with friends and family, we are able to listen to each other's experiences. Let these items show us that we are not alone in how it feels to be human. Looking for more? Check out our personalized recommendations here or call us at 799-9084.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Let's Talk Race: A Culinary Conversation

"The man and the woman who became enslaved enslaved the palate of those who enslaved them. From feijoada, to jambalaya, we flipped it on ’em. And we keep flipping it on ’em." --Michael Twitty
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Diverse Families in Novels

Family is what holds these stories together as the characters experience life-changing moments, face difficult truths and each other. Looking for even more good books? Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084. Find more resources on race, equity, and inclusion, here.
Staff Picks

Cults in Teen Fiction

Spooky season might be over but colder days are ahead and the perfect book to curl up with might just be on this list! If you’re looking for something you can’t put down, cult books offer a unique blend of true crime, horror, and suspense. From a teen girl planning her daring escape to another hoping to survive the rampant pandemic outside her religious community, these stories of dangerous cults and those who find themselves trapped will keep you turning the pages.
Blog
Richland Library Main

#OwnVoices: The Secret Lives of Church Ladies

The nine stories in this collection feature four generations of characters grappling with who they want to be in the world, caught as they are between the church's double standards and their own needs and passions.
Staff Picks

Social Issues in Teen Fiction

Studies have shown that reading fiction increases empathy and makes it easier to understand someone else’s point-of-view. There’s no better way to tackle some of the complex issues facing our country during election season than seeking out diverse perspectives.
Staff Picks

Elections and Issues Information for Teens

Every vote matters and every voice counts. Make sure your voice is heard by learning more about the political process, political figures, and challenging issues in the titles below. Access even more information on these topics using the Gale Opposing Viewpoints database, or dig into some fantastic fiction on important social subjects.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Spooky Stories

Fears--real and imagined--abound in these scary stories featuring a missing mother, killer buttons, a ghost and a suspicious rabbit. (And we won't tell if you decide to sleep with the light on...)
Blog
Richland Library Eastover

#OwnVoices: Monday's Not Coming

Friends are like family. So, when your best friend goes missing what do you do. If you are anything like Claudia, you go looking for answers.
Staff Picks

Teen Horror

Devour these terrifying titles as Halloween creeps near or if you just crave that spine-chilling feeling year-round. From monsters to murder in dilapidated houses to haunted graveyards, you never quite know who or what is around the corner in these novels. Looking for more spooky reads? Check out these lists of Teen Ghost Stories and Teen Witches!
Blog
Richland Library Sandhills

Career Development: Discover Yourself

Self-discovery is essential to making career decisions that will build a happy life. Here are four questions to help you discover yourself.
Blog
Richland Library Main

#OwnVoices: Sunny and Lu

Imagine finding the sound of rhythm in everything that goes on in the world. Now imagine doing it with Swag. That’s what Sunny and Lu bring to you as the last two books of Jason Reynolds Track Series. They both work to find the right rhythm on the team but Lu adds a dab of Swag to the mix.
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Hispanic Heritage Month in Novels

Hispanic Heritage month is a celebration of the countless contributions of Hispanic culture. Check out these chapter books and novels to learn more about how Hispanic culture has influenced our literature and our lives. Don't miss our Hispanic Heritage Month in Picture Books list!
Staff Picks

2020 Harvey Award Winners

The winners of the 2020 Harvey Awards, which are selected by comics industry professionals, have been announced across six categories. Check out some of the best recent comics below. The full list of nominees can be found here.
Staff Picks

Teen Ghost Stories

Add some chills to your fall with this selection of teen ghost stories that will have you reading throughout the night. Whether these spirits are seeking revenge, trying to send a message, or haunting a house, you'll want to leave the light on for these. Check out this list of Teen Witches books for more paranormal reads.
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Indigenous & Native People in Middle Grade & Teen Novels

Discover the stories, cultures, traditions and history of indigenous and native people of the Americas in these compelling novels for middle grade and teen readers. Looking for even more good books? Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084. Find more resources on race, equity, and inclusion, here.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: On The Run

iRead features the best ebooks, eaudiobooks and print books for children and teens curated by the Children's Room and Teen Center staff. Whether it's running from danger or running towards adventure, these are stories of friends and family discovering new things about the world and themselves.
Blog
Richland Library Northeast

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

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

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.
Staff Picks

Challenged!

This year we celebrate Banned Book Week September 22-28. What’s that? Well, since the 1980s libraries all over the world celebrate challenged titles and spread awareness about the freedom to read each year at the end of September. Why these books? Some people feel like the content of these titles is not appropriate and should be censored and taken off bookshelves. No worries though, the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom works tirelessly to advocate for our right to have access to these titles.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Sharon Draper

“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
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Sharon Draper

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.
Staff Picks

Toil & Trouble - Teen Witches

There's a chill in the air which means spooky season is upon us. It's time to grab a warm beverage, curl up with a blanket, and enjoy a great book as the nights grow longer and the leaves begin to fall. Check out the list below to bewitch yourself with paranormal tales of magic, spells, covens, and more. Looking for more? Check out our Personalized Recommendations form to find your next great read!
Staff Picks

YA Novels to Film

The pages of the following novels came to life in movies and television shows. Check out the epic stories that started it all.
Staff Picks

Must Read YA Realistic Fiction Novels

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.
Staff Picks

YA Fantasy Gold Mine

Take a trip to another realm with adventure around every corner in the following novels.
Blog
Richland Library North Main

#OwnVoices: Toning the Sweep

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

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

Remembering Ruth Bader Ginsburg

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.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: The Tía Lola Stories Series

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.
Staff Picks

2020 National Book Awards: The Long Lists

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.
Staff Picks

Teen Fiction for Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15) recognizes the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx Americans. Celebrate by checking out these teen titles highlighting diverse characters and stories by #OwnVoices authors. Looking for more? Check out our Personalized Recommendations form to find your next great read!
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Joyce Hansen

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.
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Joyce Hansen

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.
Staff Picks

2020 Kirkus Prize Finalists

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.
Staff Picks

The Power of the Vote

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

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.
Staff Picks

Author Spotlight: Mariko Tamaki

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

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.
Staff Picks

Teen Viral Sensations

This year we've all been a bit more plugged in than usual. Whether you're connecting with friends and family via Zoom, emailing in your homework assignments, scrolling through social media on your phone, or even participating in virtual role playing games with your peers, the internet and technology is essential. But have you ever wondered what would happen if you went viral? This list of teen fiction titles explores what it would be like to experience a sudden onslaught of fame and attention from viral videos, blogs, YouTube channels, comics, and more.
Blog
Richland Library Main

How to Vote Absentee in the General Election

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.
Blog
Richland Library Main

The Power of Protest

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

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.
Blog
Richland Library Main

iRead: Nikki Grimes

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.
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Nikki Grimes

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.
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Immigrant & Refugee Stories in Novels

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.
Staff Picks

Thought Leaders to Read

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.
Staff Picks

LGBTQIA+ Teen Fantasy and Science Fiction

Travel to different worlds and realities with some of our favorite science fiction and fantasy titles, featuring LGBTQIA+ teens. Whether taking a new spin on traditional fairy tales (Cinderella is Dead; Girl, Serpent, Thorn) or exploring new frontiers in science fiction (Heart of Iron; Tarnished Are the Stars), these titles will have you on the edge of your seat and may just break your heart.
Staff Picks

Diverse Teen Fantasy Books

Looking for some escapism? Check out these exciting and diverse teen fantasy titles released in 2020 to explore new worlds filled with unique magic. From adventures of a gender-fluid pirate discovering a mermaid (The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea) to a Bolivian politics inspired tale of a decoy queen (Woven in Moonlight) to a fairy tale retelling of a black heroine fighting the patriarchy (Cinderella is Dead) and more, you'll be sure to find spellbinding stories in each of these books.
Staff Picks

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

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.
Staff Picks

Author Spotlight: Lamar Giles

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

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.
Staff Picks

Immigration and First Generation Stories for Teens

Explore the lives of teens through the lens of these immigration and first generation stories. Focusing on characters who are straddling two worlds and two cultures, these stories explore the richness of the immigrant experience, the challenge of naturalization, and the complexity of living within two communities simultaneously.
Staff Picks

​Nostalgic Teen Vampire Reads

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

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.
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Tom Feelings

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

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

#OwnVoices: Ghost and Patina

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

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

Dinner Table Talks: New Kid

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

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.
Blog
Richland Library Main

#OwnVoices: Colorism in Genesis Begins Again

While there are lots of books, articles, and videos that highlight how to talk about race, Genesis Begins Again brings forward a new conversation surrounding the topic of colorism.
Staff Picks

Characters with Chronic Conditions and Disabilities in Teen Fiction

Living with a chronic condition or disability can make you feel alone, but these titles offer an opportunity to engage in and explore a diverse community of characters with disabilities. From a girl with cerebral palsy falling into another dimension (A Curse So Dark and Lonely), to a girl navigating rheumatoid arthritis and risking everything for the only person who understands (Sick Kids in Love), these stories cross genres and explore a different facet of the teen experie
Staff Picks

Author Spotlight: Nnedi Okorafor

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

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

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

Create a musical ensemble using everyday materials you can find around your house and yard.
Staff Picks

2020 Eisner Award Winners

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.
Staff Picks

Let's Read Middle Eastern and South Asian YA Authors

Looking to diversify your bookshelf? Check out the titles below from some of our favorite Middle Eastern and South Asian authors. Whether drawing inspiration from traditional stories, high fantasy, or the American teen experience, these books capture teen life in all its drama, joy, and magic.
Staff Picks

Fall in Love with these Teen Romances

Looking for a read to make your heart flutter and cheeks flush? These latest teen romances are full of first loves, self-discovery, meet-cutes, opposites attract, fake dating contracts, and more.
Blog
Richland Library North Main

#OwnVoices: The March Trilogy

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

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.
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Patricia McKissack

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

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.