Celebrate National Library Lovers' Month in the Hudson Valley: A Bookworm's Guide to Literary Bliss
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February is upon us, and with it comes a celebration fit for bibliophiles everywhere—National Library Lovers' Month! A time to honor the bastions of knowledge that have shaped our imaginations, preserved our histories, and served as the quiet, air-conditioned sanctuaries we desperately needed in high school. For those of us lucky enough to call the Hudson Valley home, this month offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the region’s most charming libraries, celebrate local literary legends, and find new ways to immerse ourselves in the joy of reading.
So, dust off your library card (or apply for one—seriously, it’s free) and get ready to turn some pages as we dive into the best ways to celebrate National Library Lovers' Month in the Hudson Valley!
1. Visit Hudson Valley’s Most Enchanting Libraries
Adriance Memorial Library (Poughkeepsie, NY)
As the oldest public library in New York State, Adriance Memorial Library is the grande dame of Hudson Valley book havens. Housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building, this library offers more than just books—it boasts extensive genealogy resources, an impressive local history collection, and community programs that range from poetry slams to tech workshops.
Pro Tip: Climb the grand staircase and channel your inner Belle from Beauty and the Beast (singing optional, but highly encouraged).
Woodstock Library (Woodstock, NY)
Nestled in the artistic heart of the Hudson Valley, the Woodstock Library is a cozy, creative hub offering an extensive collection of books, music, and digital resources. The real magic? Their annual Library Fair—a community extravaganza filled with book sales, live music, and artisanal crafts.
Pro Tip: Check out their Writers in the Mountains series, where local authors share insights about their craft.
Desmond-Fish Public Library (Garrison, NY)
Quaint, charming, and backed by the scenic beauty of the Hudson Highlands, this library is a literary retreat worth visiting. With its robust author events, book clubs, and a stunning children’s section, the Desmond-Fish Public Library is a hidden gem for readers of all ages.
Pro Tip: Their annual "Winter’s Eve Story Hour" brings beloved tales to life with local actors—perfect for literary enthusiasts and future thespians alike.
2. Dive into Works by Hudson Valley Authors
The Hudson Valley has long been a muse for writers, inspiring stories that range from gothic horror to thought-provoking literary fiction. This National Library Lovers' Month, why not celebrate by diving into the works of local authors?
Washington Irving – The Father of American Literature
No Hudson Valley literary journey is complete without paying homage to Washington Irving. His famous Legend of Sleepy Hollow immortalized the region’s misty, haunted charm, making a visit to Sleepy Hollow (and the Headless Horseman Bridge) a must for book lovers.
Recommended Reading: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow & Rip Van Winkle
T.C. Boyle – Master of the Unpredictable
A prolific writer with roots in Peekskill, Boyle has dazzled readers with his sharp wit, dark humor, and razor-sharp storytelling. His novels often explore environmental and social issues with an electrifying narrative style.
Recommended Reading: The Tortilla Curtain & World’s End
Elizabeth Brundage – Hudson Valley Gothic
For those who love a touch of eerie elegance, Elizabeth Brundage’s books are a must-read. Her novel All Things Cease to Appear (adapted into the Netflix film Things Heard & Seen) is a chilling psychological thriller set in the Hudson Valley.
Recommended Reading: All Things Cease to Appear & The Vanishing Point
3. Get Involved with Your Local Library
Libraries aren’t just buildings filled with books; they’re vibrant community spaces offering endless ways to engage. This February, take your literary appreciation to the next level by:
Getting a Library Card (If You Haven’t Already)
It’s free. It grants access to thousands of books, movies, audiobooks, and online learning platforms. It’s essentially a golden ticket to unlimited knowledge (minus the risk of being turned into a giant blueberry). What are you waiting for?
Attending a Library Event
From author talks to writing workshops and children’s story hours, Hudson Valley libraries offer incredible programming for all ages. Check your local library’s website for upcoming events.
Joining a Book Club
Looking to spice up your reading routine? Many Hudson Valley libraries host book clubs on topics ranging from classic literature to true crime. It’s a great way to meet fellow book lovers (and argue passionately over plot twists).
Donating or Volunteering
Have gently used books collecting dust? Consider donating them to your library’s book sale. Want to be more hands-on? Many libraries welcome volunteers to help with events, shelving books, or even tutoring programs.
4. Take a Literary-Themed Day Trip
The Hudson Valley is brimming with literary history and bookish adventures. Make a day of it with these ideas:
Storm King Art Center & a Bookstore Stop
Pair a trip to the world-renowned Storm King Art Center with a stop at Split Rock Books in Cold Spring. Browse curated selections of fiction, poetry, and children’s books before enjoying a scenic hike in nearby Breakneck Ridge.
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Tour
Channel your inner gothic literature enthusiast with a guided tour of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Washington Irving himself is buried. End the day at Warner Library, which offers a fantastic collection of local folklore books.
Bookstore Hopping in Rhinebeck & Hudson
Both Rhinebeck and Hudson boast charming indie bookstores like Oblong Books and Spotty Dog Books & Ale. Treat yourself to a new read, sip a local craft brew, and bask in the literary magic.
5. Explore Digital Resources & E-Books
Busy schedule? No problem! The Mid-Hudson Library System offers digital collections, including e-books, audiobooks, and online courses—all accessible with a library card. Apps like Libby and Hoopla make borrowing books easier than ever, letting you celebrate National Library Lovers' Month from the comfort of your own home (or while hiding from your responsibilities at work).
Final Chapter: Celebrate the Magic of Libraries
National Library Lovers' Month is more than just an excuse to hoard books (though we fully support that). It’s a time to celebrate the role libraries play in our communities, the authors who bring our stories to life, and the joy of reading itself.
So, whether you’re checking out a new book, attending a literary event, or simply enjoying the quiet refuge of your local library, make this February a month to remember. And who knows? You might just discover your next favorite book—or at least a good reason to avoid folding laundry for another afternoon.
Happy reading, Hudson Valley!
