Blog Entries

Looking for fun things to do this season? We’ve got you covered! Our brand-new September–December 2025 Programming & Resource Guide is packed with events, activities, and resources for all ages.

From storytimes and book clubs to teen hangouts and special programs, there’s something for everyone at all three of our branches—Handley Library, Bowman Library, and Clarke County Library.

Welcome to the Handley Regional Library System, home to the magnificent 110-year-old Handley Library – a true architectural gem nestled in the heart of Winchester, Virginia. Join us on our next exclusive tour, taking place the 2nd Saturday of every month, as we unlock the secrets of this historic library, delving into its fascinating architecture and rich history.

Unveiling Hidden Treasures

We’re excited to share that Handley Library was recently featured in a segment on NBC4 Washington as part of a story about two remarkable teen authors, Emma and Juliana, and their new book Let’s Explore Winchester.

After nearly 15 years of dedicated service to the Handley Regional Library System, Joan Wood has officially retired from her role as Archives Assistant at the Stewart Bell Jr. Archives at Handley Library.

Summer at the Handley Regional Library System is bursting with color, creativity, and community—and it all starts with our brand-new 2025 Summer Programming & Resource Guide! 🎉

This season, we’re inviting everyone to Color Our World with an exciting lineup of programs, events, and reading challenges for all ages.

Stop paying for ebooks and audiobooks—Libby gives them to you FREE with your library card!

Say hello to Libby, the app that brings the Handley Regional Library System to your phone or tablet. Whether you're relaxing at home, commuting, or heading out on vacation, Libby lets you borrow books anytime, anywhere—with zero late fees and zero cost.

Why Libby is your new go-to:

Are you curious about your family's past? Whether you're just starting your genealogy journey or you're a seasoned researcher, the Handley Regional Library System offers a treasure trove of free genealogy and local history resources to help you dig deep into your roots.

Here’s a look at the powerful tools available through our library system—some of which you can access from home, and others you’ll want to explore during a visit to one of our branches.

Great news! We are excited to announce that patrons now have access to all hoopla BingePasses! If you love digital entertainment, learning, and exploring new topics, this is your golden ticket to unlimited access—completely free with your library card.

Planning a trip can be overwhelming, especially when traveling to a new country. Luckily, AtoZ World Travel, available in our eLibrary, makes it easier than ever to prepare for your journey! This incredible database offers comprehensive travel guides for 202 cities worldwide, covering everything from cultural etiquette to must-see attractions.

Here are five reasons why AtoZ World Travel should be your go-to travel resource:

Are you ready for some thrilling updates? Handley Regional Library System has expanded our streaming video resource offerings, Kanopy, and there’s never been a better time to dive in!

What’s New?

Kanopy now offers access to over 30,000 new titles, including:

NOTE: Registration begins on December 28!

Winter is the perfect season to cozy up with a good book, and the Handley Regional Library System is excited to announce our 2025 Winter Reading Program: Be a Reading Machine! This engaging program runs from January 2 through January 31 and is open to readers of all ages.

At Handley Regional Library System, we proudly serve as a cornerstone of knowledge, community, and innovation. Our mission is to empower individuals and enrich our region through access to resources, programs, and opportunities for all. But to continue this mission, we rely on the generous support of people like you.

Here are six compelling reasons to consider financially supporting Handley Regional Library System today:

Libby, the popular library reading app from OverDrive, is changing how people connect with books. If you haven’t tried reading with Libby through the Handley Regional Library System, now is the time! Here are 10 reasons why downloading Libby will be your best literary decision yet.

Looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite magazines? With Magzter, you can access over 4,000 digital magazine titles for free through the Handley Regional Library System. Whether you're into lifestyle, tech, entertainment, or niche hobbies, there’s something for everyone—and in multiple languages!

Here are five reasons to start reading digital magazines today:

Winchester, VA — The Handley Regional Library System is proud to announce the impressive statistics from the 2023-2024 fiscal year, underscoring its vital role in the community and its ongoing commitment to providing accessible resources and services to patrons of all ages.

Over the past year, the Handley Regional Library System's three locations—Handley Library, Bowman Library, and Clarke County Library—welcomed 365,992 visitors, reflecting the vibrant engagement with our libraries. Key highlights from the year include:

Historical Fiction

Discover quick listen historical fiction favorites that explore the complexity of the human condition, like The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, on @hoopladigital. https://www.hoopladigital.com/collection/5558

Mystery

Check out @hoopladigital's quick-listen mystery, suspense, and thrillers that will keep you on the edge of your seat. https://www.hoopladigital.com/collection/5552

The Book Club is BACK!

After a long hiatus, we are ready to bring the book club back! The Book Club will be open to all adults (ages 18 and up) and will meet monthly to connect readers, discuss books, and introduce new authors and stories.

Bowman Library is your go-to destination for fun and engaging games that cater to all interests and ages. Whether you're a word wizard, a strategic mastermind, or just looking for a good time with friends, we've got something for everyone. Check out our exciting lineup of game-themed programs!

Scrabble Club

Wednesdays, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Are you a knitting enthusiast, a crochet aficionado, or perhaps someone who loves embroidery or latch hooking? Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, we have the perfect gathering for you! Join us for our Sit and Stitch program at Handley Regional Library System, where you can bring your work in progress, share tips and tricks, and enjoy the company of fellow crafters.

Are you ready to embark on a summer filled with adventure and discovery? Join us for the Rally for Reading, the exciting kickoff event for our Youth Summer Reading Program, themed “Adventure Begins at Your Library.” This year, we’re thrilled to host our kickoff celebrations at each of our three library branches. Mark your calendars and get ready for a season of fun, learning, and exploration!

Looking for an epic summer adventure? Look no further than your local library! Here are 10 reasons why you should dive into the excitement at our library system this summer:

1. Youth Summer Reading Program: Join us for a summer of literary exploration with our Youth Summer Reading Program! Dive into captivating stories, embark on thrilling adventures, and earn exciting rewards along the way.

Welcome to National Library Week, a time when communities across the nation join hands to celebrate the cornerstone of knowledge, inspiration, and community: libraries. At Handley Regional Library System, we're thrilled to be part of this annual celebration, and we invite you to join us in commemorating the incredible contributions libraries make to our lives. This year's theme, "Ready, Set, Library!" embodies the excitement and readiness to explore the myriad offerings libraries provide. Here are ten ways you can celebrate National Library Week with us:

Handley Library branch has achieved KultureCity® Certification as a Sensory Inclusive^TM space. This certification marks a significant step forward in the library's commitment to providing an inclusive environment for all patrons, including those with sensory processing needs.

As the cold of winter melts away and the warmth of spring begins to blossom, the Handley Regional Library System is abuzz with excitement for our upcoming theme: "Spring into the Library." With an array of enriching programs and events lined up, there's no better time to embrace the spirit of the season and dive into the world of literature, music, culture, and community. Here are 10 compelling reasons why you should make the library your go-to destination this spring:

The Handley Regional Library System is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its new, permanent StoryWalk® around the picturesque lake adjacent to Bowman Library. This exciting initiative was made possible through the generous support of the Kiwanis Club of Blue Ridge, Winchester, and Frederick County Parks and Recreation.

We are constantly striving to enhance your library experience and are thrilled to introduce you to our latest gem – Kanopy, a premier video streaming service that is sure to elevate your entertainment journey. With just your library card, you can now unlock a world of quality, thoughtful content that spans movies, documentaries, foreign films, classic cinema, independent films, and educational videos.

What is Kanopy?