WHAT TO DO AT THE LIBRARY

Experience Virginia's captivating history at the Library of Virginia, where our extensive collections, records, and educational resources offer a wealth of knowledge for everyone. From engaging workshops and exhibitions to expert research assistance, the Library of Virginia brings history to life and invites you to explore the rich tapestry of our state's past.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Whether you're planning a visit or exploring our collections remotely, we want your research experience to be successful, find all the information you need to begin here.

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GET A LIBRARY CARD

Virginia residents may register online for a Library of Virginia account with a valid Virginia state-issued driver's license or identification card.

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ASK A RESEARCH QUESTION

The Library of Virginia has over 130 million items related to Virginia's government, history, and culture. Our staff is available to help you plan your research and find information in our collections.

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VIEW COLLECTIONS & RESOURCES

The Library has a vast collection of books, journals, newspapers, photographs, manuscripts, maps, archives, and more. We also have resources that can help you make the most of your research, including databases and research guides that help explain our collections and the best way to use them.

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JOIN US AT AN EVENT

Find ways to engage with the Library and explore our resources through our series of genealogy workshops, author talks, exhibitions other events. 

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OPENING CELEBRATION

Join us on Thursday, July 17 from 4 to 7:15 p.m. for an opening celebration and reception for "House to Highway," a new exhibition from the Library and The JXN Project. The event features guided tours, information booths from community partners, and a panel discussion with the exhibition team.

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EXPLORE VIRGINIA'S WWII STORY

A lobby display, online exhibition and collection of online resources commemorate the 80th anniversary of World War II. Posters, photographs, letters and documents bring to life the experiences of those who served in the military as well as those we supported the war effort at home.

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Homefront to Frontline: Virginia's WWII Story exhibit graphic

ENGAGE VIRGINIA'S PAST TO EMPOWER ITS FUTURE

Contributions to the Library support public programs, create inspiring exhibitions, and preserve Virginia's invaluable history. Members receive invitations to special events, discounts at the Virginia Shop, a print subscription to "Broadside," and the knowledge that your support makes the Library's work possible.

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A library staff member shows a tour group a tiny book in the palm of his hand.

THE PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS

Voting is open until July 15 for the Library's annual People's Choice Awards! The finalists represent the most-requested fiction and nonfiction titles by Virginia authors or about the Commonwealth.

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VISIT OUR CAFE!

WHISK, a popular local bakery known for its inventive takes on French and American pastries, has a location in our lobby. With hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mon–Fri, WHISK offers handcrafted sandwiches, salads and soups made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as a full-service coffee, espresso and smoothie bar.

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Graphic showing food offerings from WHISK including a croissant sandwich, pastry, and a coffee.
A partial image of an Army Separation Notice Honorable Discharge Notice for Martin L Albert following World War II. The notice includes information such as his address, military service number, height, weight, date of birth, and the like.

DIGITAL COLLECTIONS

The Library has over 100 digital collections, with more added frequently. Explore our photograph collection, supplement your house history research with the map collection, trace your family using Virginia Chronicle newspapers, Chancery Records court cases, or Virginia Untold African American resources, and more!

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Events and Exhibitions

Immerse yourself in the Library of Virginia's offerings, from thought-provoking exhibits to interactive workshops. With a calendar full of unique programs and events, you're sure to find something that piques your interest and expands your horizons. Come explore all that the library has to offer!

  • Exhibition Tour Celebrating the 161st Birthday of Maggie Lena Walker (Tour 1)

    Tuesday, 15 July 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

  • Opening Celebration for House to Highway: Reclaiming a Community History

    Thursday, 17 July 2025, 4:00 PM - 7:15 PM

  • Weinstein Author Series – Adriana Trigiani | “The View From Lake Como” & 25 Years of “Big Stone Gap”

    Thursday, 24 July 2025, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Visit our Events Calendar for More

THE UNCOMMONWEALTH BLOG

Learn about what we do, why we do it, and how our efforts relate to current issues and events. In addition to our intriguing collections and groundbreaking projects, we’ll spotlight public libraries, staff members, and specialized professions.

DISCOVER
Two women at a table looking at a laptop computer. One woman in a black sweater is standing and the other woman, in a green shirt, is seated.

MISSING SOMETHING?

While we complete the migration from our old website to our new site, you can still browse the old site to find collections and resources. It will remain available for the next six months. These older webpages will be updated within the year so it is still important to familiarize yourself with the new website.

FIND IT

QUICK LINKS

Records Management

State and local government’s records management needs are supported by three of the Library’s departments: the Records Analysis Services section, the State Records Center, and Imaging Services.

Contact Us

Find staff by name or department, see leadership, and find careers opportunities.

Library Policies & Guidelines

The mission of the Library of Virginia is to serve the research and information needs of Virginia’s state agencies, government, and the general public. Find policies and guidelines for using the library here.

Educator Services

Find relevant and useful educational material on Virginia’s history, culture, and people to the Commonwealth’s educators, students, and lifelong learners of any age.

News & Press Center

The official source for Library of Virginia news. Here you'll find our press releases, magazine, newsletter, blog, impact report, and social media.

Virginia Literary Awards

An annual gala celebration that has become the Library's signature event and an eagerly anticipated cultural tradition in Richmond.