What to Find at Chesterfield County Library

Chesterfield County Library serves residents across the county with books, digital resources, and community programs

Chesterfield County Library is a public library system with multiple branches throughout the county, offering physical collections, computers, internet access, and programming for all ages. The system includes the main library and several branch locations, each with its own hours and services. You can visit in person to browse materials, use public computers, attend events, or place holds on items from home through the online catalog.

The library does not charge a membership fee for Chesterfield County residents. You will need a valid ID and proof of your current address to get a library card. Once you have a card, you can check out books, audiobooks, DVDs, and other materials, and you can access digital collections from home.

Key Takeaways

• Chesterfield County Library has multiple branch locations with different hours, so check the website or call ahead before visiting.
• A library card is free for county residents and requires a valid ID and proof of current address.
• The library offers computers, internet access, and public meeting spaces available for community use.
• Digital collections including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services are available to cardholders from home.
• The library hosts programs for children, teens, and adults throughout the year, including storytimes, book clubs, and educational workshops.

Branch locations and hours

Chesterfield County Library operates several branches across the county. The main library and each branch location have their own hours of operation, which may vary by season or change periodically. Hours are typically posted on the library's official website, and you can call any branch directly to confirm before you visit.

Each branch has a different size collection and may specialize in certain materials or programs. Some branches have dedicated spaces for children's programming, teen areas, or quiet study zones. If you are looking for a specific item or service, calling ahead can save you a trip—staff can tell you whether that branch has what you need or whether another location would be better.

Getting a library card

To get a free library card, visit any Chesterfield County Library branch in person. Bring a valid photo ID and a document showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. The address on your ID does not have to match your current address as long as you can prove where you live now.

Once you have a card, you can check out materials immediately and set up an online account to place holds, renew items, and access digital resources from home. If you lose your card, you can request a replacement at any branch. Some branches may offer temporary digital access while you wait for a replacement card to arrive.

Physical collections and checkout

Chesterfield County Library holds books, audiobooks on CD, DVDs, magazines, and other materials. You can browse the collection in person or search the online catalog from home to see what is available at each branch. The catalog shows whether an item is currently checked out and when it is expected to be returned.

Checkout periods vary by material type—books typically can be checked out for three to four weeks, while DVDs and audiobooks may have shorter loan periods. You can renew most items online or by phone if no one else has placed a hold on them. Late fees apply if materials are not returned by the due date, though many libraries offer amnesty periods or fee forgiveness programs at certain times of year.

Digital resources and online access

Cardholders can access e-books, audiobooks, digital magazines, and streaming services through the library's website without visiting in person. Popular platforms include services where you can borrow digital titles for a set period, then they automatically return. Some digital collections offer unlimited access to reference materials, learning resources, and databases.

To use digital resources, log in with your library card number and PIN on the library's website. You can download items to your phone, tablet, or computer, or stream them directly through a web browser. The library's website typically has guides for using each digital service, and staff can walk you through setup if you visit a branch or call.

Public computers and internet access

All Chesterfield County Library branches offer free public computers and Wi-Fi internet access. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis, though some branches allow you to reserve a computer in advance. Session times may be limited during busy periods to ensure everyone gets a turn.

You do not need a library card to use the Wi-Fi, but you may need one to use a public computer, depending on the branch. Computers have standard software for word processing, web browsing, and printing. If you need help using a computer or have questions about internet access, ask a staff member at the branch.

Programs and events for all ages

Chesterfield County Library offers storytimes for young children, homework help and teen programs, book clubs, author visits, and educational workshops for adults. Many programs are free and open to the public, though some may require registration in advance. The library's website and social media pages list upcoming events with dates, times, and registration details.

Programs change seasonally and may include summer reading challenges, holiday celebrations, and special guest speakers. Some branches host community meetings and classes on topics like technology, job searching, and personal finance. Check the library's calendar or ask staff at your local branch about programs that interest you.

Meeting spaces and community use

Many Chesterfield County Library branches have meeting rooms available for community groups, nonprofit organizations, and residents. Rooms can typically be reserved for a set number of hours and may be free or available at a low cost. Policies on who can reserve rooms and how far in advance you need to book vary by branch.

Contact the branch directly or visit the library's website to learn about room availability, capacity, and reservation procedures. Some branches have restrictions on the types of activities allowed or require advance approval for certain uses. Staff can explain what each space offers and help you find the right room for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a library card to visit or use the Wi-Fi?

You do not need a library card to visit the library or use the Wi-Fi internet. However, you will need a card to check out physical materials, use public computers, and access digital resources. Getting a card is free and takes just a few minutes with a valid ID and proof of address.

Can I place a hold on a book from home?

Yes. Log into your online account on the library's website with your library card number and PIN, search for the item you want, and place a hold. The library will notify you when the item is ready for pickup, usually by email or phone. You can pick it up at your preferred branch location.

What should I do if I lost my library card?

Visit any Chesterfield County Library branch and ask for a replacement. Bring your ID so staff can verify your account. You may be charged a small replacement fee, though some branches waive it. In the meantime, you can still access digital resources using your library card number if you know it.

Are there programs for teenagers?

Yes. Most branches offer teen programs including book clubs, gaming events, technology workshops, and social activities. Check the library's website or ask at your local branch for a current schedule. Many programs are free and open to all teens in the county.

Can I print or scan documents at the library?

Most branches offer printing and scanning services at public computers. There may be a small fee per page for printing. Ask staff at your branch about the cost and how to use the equipment, or check the library's website for details on printing and scanning policies.