September 3, 2025

Turn Reading Into Fresh Produce with Petersburg Public Library’s “Read & Eat” Program

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This summer, families across the country have been feeling the pinch at the grocery store. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of produce has increased nearly 40 percent. In Petersburg, the Public Library and the Healthy Communities Action Team (HCAT) are working together to ease the burden by connecting literacy and nutrition in a creative new way.

Starting September 15, 2025, families can earn tokens at the Petersburg Public Library that can be redeemed for fresh produce at the Petersburg Farmers Market. Here’s how it works:

Earn Tokens by Reading

  • Every time your child reads a book, or you read to them, you earn one token.

  • Each token is valued at one dollar and can be used to purchase produce at the Farmers Market.

  • Reading becomes more than just a way to learn — it becomes a way to save.

Earn Tokens by Cooking

HCAT’s “Pop-up Bite” Kitchens give families the chance to cook and learn together while earning more tokens.

  • Attend a Pop-up Bite Kitchen and receive five tokens per family.

  • Cook at home: Record your family making the featured recipe and send the video to [email protected] or call (804) 605-2567 to submit. You’ll earn ten tokens.

  • Get featured online: If your video is posted on the Library’s social media pages, your family earns an additional ten tokens, for a total of twenty tokens.

Upcoming HCAT Pop-up Bite Kitchen Dates

  • Saturday, November 22 | 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
    Greater A.M.E. Zion Church, 1301 Youngs Rd.

  • Tuesday, November 25 | 9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
    Petersburg Public Library, 201 W. Washington St.

Building Stronger Readers and Healthier Families

This program is designed to meet two essential needs: helping children become stronger readers while supporting families with affordable access to healthy food.

“Our goal is to connect literacy and nutrition in a way that directly benefits families’ budgets,” said Ruth Frierson. “By earning tokens through reading and cooking, families can put healthy meals on the table while building lifelong skills.”

The Petersburg Public Library invites families to start earning tokens beginning September 15. Together, we can build stronger readers, healthier families, and a thriving community.

For more information, contact HCAT at [email protected] or (804) 605-2567, or call the Library at (804) 733-2387.

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July 30, 2025

It’s Hot Outside! Come. Discover the Wonder Within You.

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With temperatures soaring into the 90s and a heatwave continuing across Central Virginia, the Petersburg Public Library is your go-to place to stay safe, cool, and engaged. From free classes and fitness programs to local art and air-conditioned reading rooms, the library gives you space to learn, recharge, and reconnect—all at no cost.

A Cool Community Space

The library is a fully air-conditioned space open to the public six days a week:

  • Monday through Thursday: 10 AM to 8 PM

  • Friday and Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM

Stop by to enjoy free Wi-Fi, access to over 20 public computers for every age group, comfortable seating, and spaces to read, work, or learn—all in a temperature-controlled environment.

Weekly Programs to Keep You Active and Inspired

The library offers a variety of free programs every week for all ages:

Yoga Classes
Offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, these gentle sessions help you stretch, breathe, and refocus in a calming environment.

Exercise Classes
On Wednesdays and Thursdays, join our group fitness class to stay active without having to brave the summer heat.

Computer Literacy and Digital Skills Training
Available throughout the week, these classes support patrons looking to improve their computer skills.

Special Collections Room
Dive into local history and genealogy resources in our dedicated research space—perfect for family historians, writers, or anyone interested in Petersburg’s rich past.

The Market at PPL

Located in the library’s front lobby, the Market at PPL offers fresh produce, snacks, and ready-to-eat items. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a few ingredients to take home, the Market is a convenient option that keeps you out of the heat and close to healthy food choices.

Art Exhibit:

Through July 31, visit the library gallery to view Horizon/tal, an exhibit by Virginia artist Dolly Holmes. Her panoramic, abstract paintings evoke a sense of open space and calm—ideal for a moment of reflection during a hot and hectic week.

Looking Ahead: Jazz in the Stacks Returns August 8

Mark your calendar for the next Jazz in the Stacks performance on Friday, August 8.

Join us on Friday, August 8, for a special evening as part of Friday for the Arts. From 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, experience a vibrant gallery display featuring Zimbabwean fashion designer Charlie Mub and visual artist Anesu Manautsi.

Then, head over to the Event Center for Jazz in the Stacks, featuring live music from the Sud’n Change Band and Show, hosted by comedic artist Micah “Bam Bam” White.

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Plan Your Visit

Whether you are looking to stay productive, cool off, or simply try something new, the Petersburg Public Library is here for you. This is your library—your space to learn, connect, and recharge. Take advantage of the free programs, air-conditioned comfort, technology access, and welcoming environment available to every member of our community.

For more information about programs and services, explore our website or call us at 804-733-2387.

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June 13, 2025

Book Review: The Richest Man in Babylon

I recently checked out The Richest Man in Babylon from the Petersburg Public Library.

This classic book was written nearly 100 years ago and is set in ancient Babylon. Because of that, it uses an older, more formal tone. You’ll find phrases like “Control thy expenditures” and “Make thy gold multiply,” which give it a philosophical, almost biblical feel.

In the chapter The Man Who Desired Gold, I could instantly relate to the main character’s emotions. He was talented and capable, yet felt financially stuck—something many of us understand. He watched others build wealth, even served them as customers, while remaining caught in a cycle. It wasn’t envy. It was an honest, personal question:
How do I grow from here? What is my solution?

That chapter pulled me in, and from that point on, I was invested in finding answers too.

In the next chapter, Arkad—the richest man in Babylon—shares an important truth about building wealth:

“I decided that if I was to achieve what I desired, time and study would be required.”

That quote sets the tone for the rest of the book. What follows is a series of parables filled with timeless, practical advice—told through the voices of Babylonian merchants, workers, and wise men.

Core Lessons

The first lesson? Earn a consistent income.
(Think of it today as securing a reliable job or contract with steady pay—not inconsistent side gigs or social media earnings.)

The second lesson? Pay yourself first.
No matter what you earn—whether it’s fifty dollars or fifty thousand—Clason advises saving at least 10% before spending anything else. Then, live on the remaining 90% as if the other 10% never existed. This simple habit builds wealth over time.

A Mindset Shift

Saving for yourself is just as important as giving or spending. In many communities, we’re taught to be generous, but not always to secure our own future. Prioritizing your financial well-being requires a mindset shift. It’s also a major step toward building a legacy.

Arkad puts it plainly:

“You have either failed to learn the laws that govern the building of wealth, or you do not observe them.”

He makes it clear—these are the only two reasons why a person hasn’t yet built wealth.

From there, the book continues with more insights, shared through stories and conversations. Arkad describes how he built his fortune through discipline, consistent saving, and smart investing. He even uses the metaphor of money becoming your “slave”—a tool that works for you, not the other way around.

The Seven Cures

One especially helpful section is The Seven Cures for a Lean Purse. These are straightforward, practical steps to help anyone turn around an empty wallet and move toward financial security. And they still apply today.

There’s real treasure in this book. The financial lessons it teaches are just as useful now as they were in ancient Babylon.

Best of all? You can find it at the Petersburg Public Library.

If you’re serious about improving your financial literacy, come check it out—or find a similar title. You’ll be glad you did.

– Raleigh Desper

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June 26, 2024

Unlock a World of Digital Content with a Petersburg Public Library Card

In today’s digital age, having access to a vast array of e-books, audiobooks, movies, and newspapers has never been easier—especially if you have a Petersburg Public Library card. From the convenience of your home, you can access premium digital content without spending a dime. Let’s explore some of the top benefits of having a library card, focusing on digital products available through apps like Hoopla and Libby, as well as free access to popular newspapers.

Cost Savings: E-books and Audiobooks

One of the most compelling reasons to get a Petersburg Public Library card is the cost savings on e-books and audiobooks. Take, for instance, the e-book The Women by T.C. Boyle. While purchasing this book on Amazon would set you back $14.99, you can borrow it for free with your library card. This is just one example of how you can save money; the library offers thousands of titles across various genres, all available at no cost.

Skip Expensive Memberships

Consider the annual costs of popular subscription services:

  • Amazon Prime Membership: $139.00 per year
  • Audible Membership: $179.40 per year

With a library card, you can access a vast collection of e-books, audiobooks, and other digital content without these hefty fees. Apps like Hoopla and Libby provide many of the same titles available through these paid services, but at zero cost to you.

Instant Access to a Wide Range of Content

With your library card, you gain instant access to a plethora of digital content through apps like Hoopla and Libby:

  • Hoopla: This app offers a wide selection of movies, music, audiobooks, e-books, comics, and TV shows. With no wait times, you can borrow and enjoy your favorite titles immediately. Whether you want to watch a newly released movie or read a bestselling novel, Hoopla has something for everyone.
  • Libby: Powered by OverDrive, Libby provides access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks. The user-friendly interface makes browsing, borrowing, and reading or listening to books a breeze. Plus, Libby offers features like customizable reading settings and offline access, ensuring a personalized reading experience.

Free Access to Newspapers

A Petersburg Public Library card also provides free access to a variety of newspapers, keeping you informed without the need for costly subscriptions. With your library card, you can read:

  • Richmond Times-Dispatch: Stay updated with local news, events, and community stories.
  • The Washington Post: Access in-depth national and international news coverage.
  • USA Today: Enjoy broad coverage of news, sports, entertainment, and more.
  • Other News Publications: The library offers access to numerous other news sources, ensuring you never miss out on important updates.

Convenient and Eco-Friendly

Borrowing digital content from the library is not only convenient but also environmentally friendly. There’s no need to drive to the library or worry about due dates and late fees with automatic returns. This convenience means you can enjoy your favorite books, movies, and newspapers without contributing to physical waste.

Educational and Recreational Value

Your Petersburg Public Library card opens the door to a world of knowledge and entertainment. Beyond popular fiction and movies, you can access educational resources, documentaries, and self-help books. This is particularly beneficial for students and lifelong learners looking to expand their knowledge without incurring additional costs.

Community Support

By utilizing the library’s digital resources, you’re also supporting your local library. Increased usage of these resources can lead to more funding and support for the library, allowing it to continue offering valuable services to the community.

How to Get Started

If you don’t already have a Petersburg Public Library card, signing up is easy. Visit us at 201 W. Washington St. Petersburg, VA 23803 with a valid ID and proof of residence. Once you have your card, download the Hoopla and Libby apps on your smartphone or tablet, and start exploring the extensive digital collections available to you.

Conclusion

A Petersburg Public Library card is your passport to a world of digital content that enriches your life without straining your budget. From the latest bestsellers and classic literature to “blockbuster” movies, educational resources, and up-to-date newspapers, the library offers incredible value and convenience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make the most of these benefits—get your library card today and dive into the digital treasures awaiting you!

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