December 20, 2024

Finding Comfort During the Holidays: How Reading Can Help Ease Loneliness and Depression

The holiday season is often associated with joy, togetherness, and celebration. But for many, it can also bring feelings of loneliness, stress, or sadness. Whether you’re navigating a tough time or simply seeking a sense of comfort, books can be a powerful ally in lifting your spirits and helping you feel connected. Here at Petersburg Public Library, we’re here to support you through the season with resources and recommendations to brighten your days.

Why Do the Holidays Feel Difficult?

The holidays can amplify emotions, especially if you’re missing loved ones, dealing with financial stress, or feeling disconnected from the hustle and bustle around you. It’s okay to acknowledge these feelings and seek healthy ways to cope. One such way is by turning to the pages of a good book. Reading offers more than just entertainment; it provides an escape, inspiration, and sometimes the connection you didn’t realize you needed.

How Reading Can Help

Books have a unique ability to transport us to other worlds, introduce us to inspiring characters, and provide insights that resonate deeply with our own experiences. Here are some ways reading can help ease loneliness and depression:

Escape from Stress: A captivating novel can whisk you away from daily worries, giving your mind a break and helping you recharge.
Find Connection: Memoirs and personal stories can remind you that you’re not alone in your struggles and that others have faced and overcome similar challenges.
Boost Your Mood: Uplifting genres like humor, romance, or adventure can bring moments of joy and laughter.
Learn Coping Strategies: Self-help books and guides offer practical tips for managing emotions and building resilience.

Tips for Finding the Right Book

Not sure where to start? Here are some suggestions:

Seek Comfort Reads: Revisit a favorite book from your past or choose something lighthearted and heartwarming.
Try Something New: Explore a genre you haven’t read before. Fantasy, mystery, or historical fiction might surprise you.
Connect Through Characters: Look for stories with relatable characters or themes that speak to your current feelings.
Ask for Recommendations: Our library staff is here to help you find the perfect book for your mood and interests.

Additional Resources at the Library

Beyond books, the library offers a variety of resources to help you navigate the season:

Community Events: Join us for workshops, book clubs, or holiday programs to connect with others in a welcoming space.
Quiet Spaces: Spend time in a peaceful corner of the library to read, reflect, or simply take a break from the holiday rush.
Digital Resources: Access eBooks, audiobooks, and more from the comfort of your home through our digital library services. Whether you’re cozy at home or on the go, apps like Libby and Hoopla give you easy access to a vast collection of digital books and audiobooks, providing a seamless reading experience. With these apps, you can borrow books from our digital collection at any time, making it easy to find comfort wherever you are.

Take Care of Yourself This Holiday Season

Remember, it’s okay to take things one day at a time. Whether you’re spending the holidays with others or on your own, finding comfort in a good book can make all the difference. Let the library be your companion during this season and beyond.

Stop by Petersburg Public Library or visit us online to discover books and resources that can brighten your holidays. We’re here to support you every step of the way. From all of us, we wish you a season of peace, warmth, and new beginnings.

December 20, 2024

Petersburg Trees of Christmas Festival

The Petersburg Public Library is sparkling with holiday cheer as part of the inaugural Petersburg Trees of Christmas Festival, a community-wide celebration of creativity and holiday spirit. Sponsored by Main Street Petersburg Inc., this event invites businesses and organizations to decorate Christmas trees and participate in a friendly contest to spread festive joy.

This year, the library has joined the festivities with beautifully decorated trees that reflect the holiday magic and the spirit of literacy. While you visit, take a moment to explore these stunning creations and support your favorite trees by participating in the event’s social media scavenger hunt:

Take a selfie with the library’s Christmas trees.
Post the photo on your social media account.
Tag the Petersburg Public Library and use the hashtag #Pburgxmastreefest2024 to cast your vote.

Participants who snap selfies with all the trees across the city will win custom prizes, and winners in the “Best Business Christmas Tree” and “Best Nonprofit Christmas Tree” categories will be announced on December 27.

By visiting the Petersburg Public Library, you’re not only embracing the holiday spirit but also celebrating 100 years of community and literacy. Come see how the library is making the holidays brighter for everyone!

Gingerbread House Tree by PHS Art Students

December 13, 2024

Honoring Nikki Giovanni: A Legacy of Poetry, Power, and Progress

At the Petersburg Public Library, we celebrate the voices that have shaped our understanding of the world and our place within it. This week, we honor the life and legacy of Nikki Giovanni, a literary giant whose work continues to inspire and challenge us.

A Poet Who Made History
Nikki Giovanni’s poetry was a reflection of her passion for justice, her love for community, and her unyielding hope for a better world. From her pivotal role in the Black Arts Movement to her works that explore love, loss, and resilience, Giovanni’s words have left an indelible mark on the literary and cultural landscape. She is more than a poet; she is a storyteller, a historian, and a truth-teller—a part of our collective history.

A Missed Opportunity to Celebrate Together
Nikki Giovanni was scheduled to join us at the Petersburg Public Library for the Second Triennial James Arthur Baldwin International Symposium on October 24–26, 2024. Unfortunately, she was unable to attend due to her courageous battle with cancer. Who knew this would be her last year, her last fight, but not the last time we hear her name. Her legacy will forever resonate in the halls of this library and beyond.

Explore Her Works at the Library
We invite you to explore Nikki Giovanni’s works at the Petersburg Public Library. Whether it’s her classic collections like Black Feeling, Black Talk, Black Judgment or her later works such as A Good Cry, her words continue to resonate with readers of all ages. Her books are a testament to the power of literature to provoke thought, ignite passion, and inspire change.

A Moment to Pay Tribute
For those wishing to pay their respects and honor her memory, public visitation is scheduled:

📍 McCoy Funeral Home
150 Country Club Dr. S.W.
Blacksburg, VA 24060
📞 (540) 552-3211
📧 mccoyfuneralhome@verizon.net

🗓 Saturday, December 14, 2024
⏰ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (ET)

For more details, visit the funeral home’s website here.

Let us honor Nikki Giovanni’s legacy by immersing ourselves in her words and sharing her vision of a more just and compassionate world. Visit the library to check out her books, discover her impact, and be inspired to write your own story.

“We write because we believe the human spirit cannot be tamed and should not be trained.” – Nikki Giovanni

December 13, 2024

Celebrating 100 Years of the Petersburg Public Library: A Centennial Gallery Showcase

We are thrilled to invite you to an exclusive showcase celebrating the 100-year anniversary of the Petersburg Public Library! From October through January, our Gallery Wall features a special exhibit of images and artifacts highlighting the Library’s rich history and impact on the community.

A Century of Community and Literacy

Founded in 1924, the Petersburg Public Library has been a cornerstone of knowledge, culture, and progress in our city. This centennial exhibit offers a unique glimpse into our journey over the decades, from our early beginnings to becoming the vibrant hub of learning and community engagement that we are today.

The Centennial Exhibit: A Treasure Trove of Memories

On display, you’ll find:

Photographs and Documents: Discover rare historical images and documents that tell the Library’s story and showcase its evolution.
Artifacts and Memorabilia: Explore items that highlight key moments in our history, including the Library’s integration on November 7, 1960, and other milestones that reflect our commitment to inclusivity and service.
Community Contributions: See the Library through the eyes of those it has touched, with stories and tributes from past and present patrons.

Why You Should Visit

Connect with History: Experience a century of Petersburg’s cultural and educational heritage.
Inspire the Future: Celebrate how the Library has shaped generations and continues to empower our community.
Engage with Artifacts Up Close: Witness the depth of our history in a tangible and impactful way.

Plan Your Visit

We invite you to experience this commemorative exhibit during our regular library hours:

Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- with the exception of Holiday Hours: Closed on Christmas Eve (Tuesday, December 24, 2024) and Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25, 2024)

Location: Petersburg Public Library, 201 W Washington St, Petersburg, VA 23803

This special exhibit is free and open to the public, making it an unmissable opportunity to celebrate our shared history.

Looking Ahead

As we mark this milestone, we also look forward to a bright future. Your continued support and engagement help us remain a pillar of knowledge, culture, and inspiration in Petersburg.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Library to explore, reflect, and celebrate 100 years of community and literacy. See you soon!

Calling All Artists!

Are you an artist looking for a place to showcase your work? We’re excited to announce that the Gallery Wall will be open for new displays starting next month! This is a wonderful opportunity to share your creativity with the community and connect with art enthusiasts in Petersburg.

How to Participate:
Contact us at 804-733-2387 ext. 6104 or email [email protected] for details on how to feature your artwork at the Petersburg Public Library. Spaces fill quickly, so don’t wait to reserve your spot in 2025.

December 4, 2024

Bringing FREE Books to Central Virginia: The Dolly Parton Imagination Library

Imagine a world where every child, regardless of circumstances, grows up with a library of books of their own. Thanks to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, that dream is becoming a reality here in Central Virginia. Through Imagination Library RVA, families in our community now have the opportunity to access this remarkable program that fosters literacy and nurtures the joy of reading.

How Does It Work?
If you have a child aged 0 to 5, you can enroll them in the Imagination Library program. Once enrolled, your child will receive a free book every month, delivered directly to your mailbox, until their fifth birthday. Each book arrives with your child’s name on it, making the experience extra special.

Why It Matters
Dolly Parton started this initiative inspired by her father, who couldn’t read. She promised to help ensure future generations have access to books, regardless of their financial situation. Starting in Tennessee, this program has now expanded across the United States and even to three other countries. It’s more than just books—it’s an investment in a child’s future, helping them build vocabulary, emotional understanding, and a love for stories.

Start Reading Today
Reading to your child doesn’t have to be a grand production. Whether it’s during a car ride or while waiting at the doctor’s office, books can bring magical moments into everyday life. Early exposure to reading helps build brain pathways that prepare children for academic success and a lifetime of learning.

Join the Movement
At the Petersburg Public Library, we’re thrilled to support this incredible initiative. We invite you to enroll your child, visit our children’s section full of fantastic books, and begin creating lasting memories. Let’s give every child the chance to explore new worlds and build a strong foundation for their future.

Learn more and enroll today by visiting imaginationlibraryrva.org.

Together, we can spark a lifelong love of reading in Central Virginia’s youngest learners.

December 4, 2024

Healthy Living Spotlight: Understanding Diabetes with Shelisha Hill, RDN

In our recent interview, Lenice Sudds, Healthy Living and Learning Coordinator, sat down with Shelisha Hill, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and founder of Diabetes Differently, LLC. Together, they delved into the essentials of diabetes, its prevention, and management.

Shelisha Hill, who specializes in diabetes education, serves as the Director of Nutrition & Wellness and Diabetes Prevention Program Coordinator at the Crater District Area Agency on Aging. Through her work and her business, Diabetes Differently, LLC, she helps individuals learn how to view and manage diabetes in a more effective and personalized way.

During the conversation, Shelisha emphasized the importance of early detection, explaining how lifestyle changes can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes for those diagnosed with prediabetes. Simple steps like increasing physical activity, eating balanced meals, and managing stress can significantly improve outcomes.

Shelisha also shared insights about Body Mass Index (BMI), blood sugar levels, and how to recognize symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Stress and poor sleep, often overlooked, can also impact blood sugar levels and overall health.

Another key takeaway from the discussion was the role of support systems. Shelisha explained how friends, family, and even co-workers can provide encouragement and accountability, helping individuals with diabetes adopt healthier habits. By joining loved ones in making better food choices or participating in physical activities, a strong support system can make managing diabetes less daunting.

Finally, Shelisha highlighted the power of small, actionable steps. “Focus on one goal at a time,” she said, encouraging the use of SMART goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. She reminded listeners to be kind to themselves and adjust their goals as needed to achieve sustainable changes.

For more insights and resources, visit Shelisha Hill’s website at DiabetesDifferently.com.

About Lenice Sudds
Lenice Sudds, BHS, LPN, QMHP-A, is the Program Coordinator at the Healthy Living and Learning Center, Petersburg Public Library. She is dedicated to promoting health and wellness in the community through programs and resources.

Contact: Lenice Sudds, BHS, LPN, QMHP-A
Program Coordinator
Healthy Living and Learning Center
Petersburg Public Library
201 W. Washington Street, Petersburg, VA 23804
📞 (804) 733-2387 ext. 6302
📧 lsudds@ppls.org

November 26, 2024

Sharing a Harvest: HCAT’s Food Demonstration and Giveaway at Petersburg Public Library

Yesterday (11-25-2024), the Petersburg Public Library hosted Sharing a Harvest, an event led by our new Healthy Community Action Team (HCAT) Coordinator Ruth Frierson. The event was a wonderful blend of community engagement, education, and support, offering a food demonstration, taste testing, and a fresh produce giveaway.

A Look at HCAT’s Mission and Vision

HCAT is a local initiative dedicated to advancing children’s health by ensuring consistent access to fruits and vegetables. Through interactive activities, HCAT engages children, youth, and families to inspire healthier choices. Their programs include:

Food demonstrations and taste testing.
Promoting Farm-2-School activities.
Establishing Learning Gardens to teach sustainable practices.
Increasing access to fresh produce in the community.

HCAT’s ultimate goal is to cultivate a coalition of partners to create a thriving, healthy Petersburg.

Event Highlights

At Sharing a Harvest, attendees explored new ways to prepare seasonal produce with recipes highlighting sweet potatoes, carrots, and collard greens. On the menu were these fresh ingredients, creatively prepared for everyone to sample.

The first 50 children who participated in the taste testing received a bag of ingredients to take home, including everything needed to practice the recipes at home. This hands-on opportunity allowed families to extend the lessons learned during the demonstration into their own kitchens.

Get Involved with HCAT

HCAT holds quarterly partnership meetings on the third Tuesday. These gatherings are an excellent opportunity for community members and organizations to collaborate and further their shared mission. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or community leader, HCAT welcomes your partnership.

Together, we can continue building a healthier Petersburg, one fresh meal at a time.

October 31, 2024

A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Gala Sponsors and Supporters!

As we prepare for an unforgettable evening to celebrate 100 years of service at the Petersburg Public Library, we want to express our gratitude to the incredible sponsors, table supporters, and individual ticket holders who’ve made this milestone event possible. Their dedication and generosity bring our library’s vision to life, ensuring a legacy that will continue for years to come.

Special thanks to our sponsors:

Signature Sponsors:
Gold Sponsors:
- Bank of Southside Virginia,
- City of Petersburg Virginia
Silver Sponsor: Dominion Energy
Bronze Sponsor: College of Education at Virginia State University
Photobooth Sponsor: Fresh Pic Photobooth
Step and Repeat Banner Sponsor: DW Studioz & Ashland Embroidery

We also extend our appreciation to everyone who purchased tables and individual tickets to our sold out occasion. Your support truly reflects the spirit of our community and makes a direct impact on the programs and services we provide.

Thank you for being a part of this historical occasion with us!

October 11, 2024

Empowering Wellness During Breast Cancer Awareness Month: A Conversation with Dana Holmes

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re sharing an insightful conversation between Lenice Sudds, Program Coordinator at the Healthy Living and Learning Center, and Dana Holmes, a two-time breast cancer survivor and Certified Life/Health/Breast Cancer Wellness Coach. Dana shares her personal journey with breast cancer, the challenges she faced, and how her experience has led her to help others through wellness coaching.

Introduction by Lenice Sudds

Lenice Sudds:
Hi, I’m Lenice Sudds, the Healthy Living and Learning Coordinator here at the Petersburg Library. Today, I have the pleasure of interviewing Miss Dana Holmes from Manifest Now Coaching.

Dana’s Breast Cancer Journey

Lenice:
Dana, thank you for joining me today. Can you tell us a little bit about your personal journey with breast cancer?

Dana Holmes:
Thank you for having me. Yes, so I am a two-time breast cancer survivor. My first experience with breast cancer was back in 2015. I noticed some soreness and discharge in my left breast, which at first, I thought was normal. However, when I saw a brown discharge, I knew it was time to go to the doctor.

After tests, they found precancerous cells and gave me the option to monitor it or undergo a lumpectomy. I opted for the surgery, and it was during the procedure that they discovered I had noninvasive cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Thankfully, the surgery removed the cancer, and I didn’t require radiation at the time.

But fast forward to April 2019, I was just shy of my five-year mark, and the cancer reoccurred in the same breast. This time, it was more widespread, but again, noninvasive.

Overcoming the Emotional Challenges

Lenice:
How did you feel when you first received your diagnosis, and what gave you the strength during those tough times?

Dana:
I was devastated. I was young, and you don’t expect something like breast cancer to happen so early in life. It really made me reflect on what I had done with my life and what my future might hold. I did a lot of crying, but I eventually leaned on my faith and the support of my family and friends to get through it. The second time around, I was mentally much stronger. I knew what I was going to do, and I opted for a mastectomy.

Helping Others on Their Wellness Journey

Lenice:
What inspired you to start helping others who are on the same journey?

Dana:
The second time around, I knew God wanted me to use my experience to help others. I had gone through the whole process, from surgery to recovery, and I knew that many people out there didn’t have the same support or knowledge that I did. I wanted to be that support for them. That’s why I created Manifest Now Coaching, to provide one-on-one wellness coaching for breast cancer survivors and others seeking to improve their health.

Exercise and Nutrition for Breast Cancer Survivors

Lenice:
How did exercise and nutrition play a role in your recovery?

Dana:
Exercise was key to my recovery. I did strength training and focused on flexibility since my surgery restricted my range of motion. It was tough, but I knew that movement was crucial to healing. As for nutrition, I adopted a plant-based diet and eliminated things like sugar, dairy, and saturated fats. These changes made a huge difference in my overall health and recovery.

Virtual Support Group

Lenice:
I understand you also host a free virtual support group for breast cancer survivors. Can you tell us more about that?

Dana:
Yes! I recently started a free Zoom group that meets on Thursdays at 7:00 PM EST. Anyone from around the world can join. We begin with prayer and then have a conversation where survivors can share their stories and connect with others. Sometimes, I bring in guest speakers, like physicians, to provide additional support and resources.

People can sign up by visiting Manifest Now Coaching and filling out the contact form to be added to the group.

Final Thoughts

Lenice:
Dana, what advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with breast cancer?

Dana:
I would say, research. Take time to understand your diagnosis and the treatment options available to you. But don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by information. Find a doctor you trust and lean on your support system. It’s important to know that cancer is not a death sentence—you can overcome it.

Join Dana’s Virtual Support Group
If you’re a breast cancer survivor or know someone who could benefit from a supportive community, join Dana Holmes’ free virtual support group by visiting Manifest Now Coaching and signing up.

Choose Wellness and Embrace Knowledge

At the Healthy Living and Learning Center, we’re here to support you on your wellness journey. If you or a loved one is affected by breast cancer, remember that you’re not alone. Reach out to us or join one of our community programs. We look forward to seeing you!

About Dana Holmes
Dana Holmes is a Certified Life/Health/Breast Cancer Wellness Coach, Master Personal Trainer, and founder of Manifest Now Coaching. She helps people improve their wellness and gain a positive mindset. Dana also supports breast cancer survivors and promotes awareness about the importance of health.

October 4, 2024

Petersburg, VA: A Growing Hub for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Watch this Video!

Petersburg, Virginia, is fast becoming a major player in the world of pharmaceutical manufacturing, thanks to strategic partnerships and dedicated efforts to spur growth and innovation. This transformation is powered by the collaborative work of organizations such as the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity and the Partnership for Petersburg, as well as the Alliance for Building Better Medicine. Together, they are helping to reshape the city’s future, creating opportunities for both small businesses and large-scale pharmaceutical ventures.

In our latest video, we explore how Petersburg is taking strides in this exciting field. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how the city is positioning itself as a leader in the pharmaceutical sector and learn about the resources available for local entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive.

Small Businesses, Big Dreams

Through partnerships like these, Petersburg is not just fostering innovation in pharmaceutical manufacturing, but also supporting the growth of small businesses. As part of the #SmallBusinessBigDreams initiative, the city offers valuable resources and guidance to help local entrepreneurs succeed in this rapidly expanding field. This aligns with the overall mission of the Partnership for Petersburg, which aims to enhance the city’s economic development and create lasting opportunities for its residents.

Join the Movement

The exciting developments happening in Petersburg are just the beginning. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to grow, or someone interested in the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing, there are countless ways to get involved. Explore these initiatives and see how you can contribute to this growing movement that’s reshaping Petersburg’s economy and future.

Stay Connected

For more updates on this and other exciting developments in Petersburg, follow us on social media and stay tuned for future content