The Newport News Library, located in Newport News, Virginia, is a vital part of the city's cultural and educational landscape. With a rich history dating back to 1924, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, providing a wide range of resources, programs, and services to residents of all ages. The library's mission is to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement, making it an essential institution in the city.
History of the Newport News Library
The Newport News Library was founded in 1924 with a collection of 1,000 books and a small staff. Over the years, the library has grown and expanded, with several relocations and renovations to accommodate the increasing demand for its services. In 1967, the library moved to its current location on Washington Avenue, where it has undergone several expansions and renovations to provide more space for collections, programs, and services. Today, the library boasts a collection of over 300,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and digital media.
Services and Programs
The Newport News Library offers a wide range of services and programs to meet the diverse needs of the community. These include:
- Children’s services, including storytime, book clubs, and summer reading programs
- Teen services, including book clubs, gaming, and college preparation programs
- Adult services, including book clubs, author talks, and career development programs
- Research assistance, including genealogy and local history resources
- Computer and technology classes, including basic computer skills, Microsoft Office, and online safety
- Access to digital media, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services
In addition to these services, the library also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, including author talks, book festivals, and community fairs. The library's meeting rooms and study spaces are also available for public use, providing a quiet and comfortable environment for individuals and groups to work, study, and collaborate.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Interlibrary Loan | Borrow books and materials from other libraries |
| Test Prep | Access to online test preparation resources, including SAT, ACT, and GRE |
| Language Learning | Access to online language learning resources, including Rosetta Stone and Mango Languages |
Community Engagement
The Newport News Library is committed to community engagement, partnering with local organizations and agencies to provide resources and services that support the city’s economic, social, and cultural development. The library’s community outreach program provides services to underserved populations, including seniors, homeless individuals, and those with disabilities. The library also hosts various community events, including author talks, book festivals, and cultural celebrations, which help to promote literacy, diversity, and inclusion.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Newport News Library partners with various organizations and agencies to provide resources and services that support the community. These partnerships include:
- Newport News Public Schools, providing resources and services to support student learning and achievement
- City of Newport News, providing access to government information and resources
- Local businesses and organizations, providing resources and services to support economic development and workforce development
- Community groups and agencies, providing resources and services to support social services and community engagement
By partnering with these organizations, the library is able to leverage resources and expertise to provide innovative programs and services that meet the diverse needs of the community.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Newport News Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, you can visit the library in person and provide proof of identification and residency. You can also apply online and pick up your card at the library.
What resources are available for children and teens?
+The library offers a wide range of resources and services for children and teens, including storytime, book clubs, and summer reading programs. The library also has a dedicated children’s section with books, audiobooks, and digital media.
