November 7, 2025

Election Recap: A New Chapter for Virginia

When it comes to politics, you are either deeply into it or it may not feel relevant at all. No matter where you stand, our goal at the Petersburg Public Library is to help you stay informed and aware of what is happening in our state.

This election is historic in many ways. For the first time, Virginia elected a woman as governor and a woman as lieutenant governor at the same time. Our Attorney General is the first Black person elected to that office, and in District 4, we have a Black woman representing our community in the State House.

Does this mean there are no white men in office? No, but it does signal a shift. Historic milestones are being reached, and new voices are taking leadership roles. It is a new day in Virginia politics, and it is worth paying attention.

A Historic Win for the Governor’s Office

According to the Washington Post in the article titled “Virginia governor election results 2025”, “Democrat Abigail Spanberger tops Republican Winsome Earle Sears to become Virginia’s first female governor.” This report was updated November 5, 2025.

The article explains that Abigail Spanberger was elected as Virginia’s first female governor, according to an AP projection. The Washington Post noted that the race was widely watched as a reflection of the political climate ahead of next year’s midterm elections.

Winner for Governor: Abigail A. Spanberger (D)

Statewide Election Results

Here in Petersburg, located in State Representative District 4, voters participated in several important statewide races. Below are the results.

Governor
Winner: Abigail A. Spanberger (D)
Opponent: Winsome E. Sears (R)

Lieutenant Governor
Winner: Ghazala F. Hashmi (D)
Opponent: John J. Reid II (R)

Attorney General
Winner: Jerrauld “Jay” C. Jones (D)
Opponent: Jason S. Miyares (R)

State Representative, District 4
Winner: Charniele L. Herring (D)

These offices play important roles in shaping public policy, state spending, tax decisions, and public programs and services that affect communities throughout Virginia.

What These Results Mean for Petersburg

Petersburg residents may see future changes or new initiatives related to:

• State support for libraries and literacy programs
• Education funding and local school resources
• Community and public safety initiatives
• Statewide economic and health priorities

Congratulations to all of our new state elected officials. The Petersburg Public Library is committed to helping community members stay informed as new policies and decisions take shape.

Use Your Library to Stay Informed

You can use the Petersburg Public Library as a resource for:

• Trusted information about state and local government
• Access to official election results and policy research
• Books and digital materials on civic literacy and public affairs
• Programs that support community engagement and lifelong learning

Thank you to every resident who participated in this year’s election. Informed participation strengthens our community and our state. The Petersburg Public Library is here to support your learning, your curiosity, and your civic engagement. Visit us anytime to explore, read, and stay connected.

Petersburg Public Library
201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803
(804) 733-2387

September 3, 2025

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

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.

September 2, 2025

September is Library Card Sign-up Month!

How to Get a Petersburg Public Library Card

A Petersburg Public Library card is free and available to anyone living in Virginia. Your card gives you access to books, eBooks, audiobooks, streaming services, databases, and so much more. Here’s how to apply and start using your card today.

Who Can Get a Card

Virginia Residents – Any person living in the Commonwealth of Virginia can get a free Petersburg Public Library card.
Military Families – Armed services personnel and their dependents living in Virginia are eligible at no charge.
Regional Residents – Residents of Chesterfield County, Colonial Heights, and areas served by the Appomattox Regional Library System (Dinwiddie, Prince George, Hopewell, and Disputanta) may also apply for a free card.
Children & Teens – Residents under 18 can receive a card with parental permission.

What You’ll Need

When applying in person, bring:

A valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID).
Proof of your current address if it’s not shown on your ID (examples: utility bill, lease, or recent mail).

Card Details & Requirements

Library cards are valid for one year and can be renewed.
Children under 18 need a parent’s signature to receive full borrowing privileges.
Ages 13–17 can apply for a limited-use card (1 book + 1 DVD checkout, plus computer access).
Ages 12 and under require a parent’s signature for full privileges, but cannot check out adult DVDs.

How to Apply

Apply in Person – Visit the Petersburg Public Library at 201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803 to complete an application and receive your card on the spot.
Apply Online – Start the process by registering online. You’ll receive a temporary card valid for 14 days. To upgrade to a full card with full borrowing and electronic resource access, stop by the library with your ID and proof of address.

Replacement Cards

Lost your card? Replacement cards are available at the circulation desk.

Start Using Your Card

With your Petersburg Public Library card, you can:

Borrow books, DVDs, and audiobooks
Download eBooks and audiobooks
Stream movies and music
Access online databases and research tools
Use public computers and free Wi-Fi

Apply Today

Signing up for a library card is quick, easy, and free. Apply online or visit us in person to unlock everything the Petersburg Public Library has to offer.

Petersburg Public Library
201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803
(804) 733-2387

July 30, 2025

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

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.

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.

July 17, 2025

Join the Adult Book Challenge at Petersburg Public Library!

July to October 2025

Need some motivation to read more books? The Petersburg Public Library’s Adult Book Challenge invites readers 18 and older to check out books, explore new genres, and earn a chance to win exciting prizes.

Whether you prefer fiction, nonfiction, audiobooks, or graphic novels, every checkout brings you closer to winning.

Major Prizes Include

Gas gift cards
Dinner for two (valued at $75)
Massage gift cards
Cash gift cards
Tickets to Swaders Sports Park

How to Participate

Get a library card.
Pick up an official Adult Book Challenge punch card at the front desk.
Check out three or more books to receive a stamp on your punch card.
For every stamp you earn, your receipt goes into the prize drawing bag of your choice.