The Mary Riley Styles Library, located in Falls Church, Virginia, is a comprehensive public library that serves as a research hub for the community. Established in 1967, the library is named after Mary Riley Styles, a local educator and civic leader who advocated for the importance of literacy and education. With a vast collection of materials, cutting-edge technology, and innovative programming, the Mary Riley Styles Library has become a vital resource for residents, students, and researchers alike.
A Brief History of the Library
The Mary Riley Styles Library has a rich history that dates back to the 1960s, when the city of Falls Church recognized the need for a modern public library. The library was built on a 2.5-acre site and opened its doors to the public on October 22, 1967. Since its inception, the library has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate the growing needs of the community. Today, the library boasts a 33,000-square-foot facility that features a diverse collection of over 150,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and databases.
Research Services and Resources
The Mary Riley Styles Library offers a wide range of research services and resources to support the information needs of its patrons. The library’s reference collection includes general knowledge databases, such as Encyclopedia Britannica and World Book, as well as subject-specific databases, like JSTOR and ScienceDirect. Patrons can also access online resources, such as OverDrive for e-books and audiobooks, Lynda.com for online learning, and Ancestry.com for genealogy research. Additionally, the library provides interlibrary loan services, allowing patrons to borrow materials from other libraries across the United States.
| Resource Type | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 120,000 |
| Audiobooks | 10,000 |
| E-books | 20,000 |
| Magazines and Newspapers | 500 |
| DVDs | 5,000 |
Programs and Events
The Mary Riley Styles Library offers a variety of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, designed to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement. Some popular programs include author talks, book clubs, storytime sessions, and STEM workshops. The library also partners with local organizations to provide job training and career development resources, as well as health and wellness programs.
Technology and Digital Media
The Mary Riley Styles Library is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including public computers, wireless printing, and free Wi-Fi. Patrons can also access the library’s digital media collection, which includes music, movies, and TV shows. The library’s makerspace area provides a collaborative environment for patrons to explore 3D printing, coding, and other emerging technologies.
In conclusion, the Mary Riley Styles Library is a vibrant and dynamic research hub that provides a wide range of resources, services, and programs to support the information needs of the Falls Church community. Whether you're a student, researcher, or simply a curious learner, the library is an invaluable resource that can help you achieve your goals and pursue your passions.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Mary Riley Styles Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
How can I access the library’s digital media collection?
+You can access the library’s digital media collection by visiting the library’s website and logging in with your library card number and PIN. From there, you can browse and download music, movies, and TV shows to your device.
Does the library offer any resources for job seekers?
+Yes, the Mary Riley Styles Library offers a range of resources for job seekers, including career development workshops, job training programs, and online resources like Lynda.com and CareerOneStop.
