The Jefferson Madison Regional Library (JMRL) is a public library system serving the city of Charlottesville, Albemarle County, Greene County, Louisa County, and Nelson County in the state of Virginia. With a rich history dating back to 1919, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of its diverse community, providing a wide range of resources, services, and programs for people of all ages.
History and Development
The JMRL was founded in 1919 as the Albemarle County Library, with a initial collection of 1,000 books and a single location in Charlottesville. Over the years, the library has expanded to include six branches, a bookmobile, and a virtual library, offering access to over 300,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, music, movies, and digital resources. The library’s mission is to provide free and equal access to information, education, and entertainment, promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
Services and Programs
The JMRL offers a variety of services and programs tailored to meet the needs of its community, including:
- Children’s services, featuring storytime, book clubs, and other activities to foster early literacy and a love of reading
- Teen services, providing a safe and supportive environment for young adults to explore their interests and develop new skills
- Adult services, including author talks, book clubs, and classes on topics such as technology, health, and wellness
- Research assistance, offering expert guidance and resources to support academic, business, and personal research
- Digital media, featuring e-books, audiobooks, music, and movies, accessible through the library’s website and mobile app
The library also partners with local organizations to provide additional services, such as job training, language classes, and health screenings, further enhancing its role as a community hub and resource center.
| Branch Location | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Central Library | 201 E Market St, Charlottesville, VA 22902 | (434) 979-7151 |
| Albemarle County Library | 1885 Barracks Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903 | (434) 972-3830 |
| Crozet Library | 2020 Library Ave, Crozet, VA 22932 | (434) 823-4050 |
| Gordonsville Library | 310 Main St, Gordonsville, VA 22942 | (540) 832-0712 |
| Greene County Library | 222 Main St, Stanardsville, VA 22973 | (434) 985-5227 |
| Northside Library | 705 Rio Rd W, Charlottesville, VA 22901 | (434) 973-7893 |
Technology and Digital Resources
The JMRL has invested heavily in technology and digital resources, providing patrons with access to a wide range of online services and tools, including:
- Online catalogs and databases, featuring millions of books, articles, and other resources
- E-books and digital media, accessible through the library’s website and mobile app
- Free Wi-Fi and public computers, available at all branch locations
- Scanning and printing services, including 3D printing and document scanning
- Online learning platforms, offering courses and tutorials on topics such as technology, business, and creative skills
The library's digital resources are designed to support the diverse needs of its community, from students and researchers to entrepreneurs and creatives. By providing access to these resources, the library helps to bridge the digital divide, promote digital literacy, and foster innovation and economic growth.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The JMRL is committed to community engagement and outreach, working to build partnerships and collaborations with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies. The library’s community engagement efforts include:
- Author talks and book signings, featuring local and national authors
- Book clubs and reading groups, focused on topics such as fiction, nonfiction, and poetry
- Children’s events and activities, including storytime, book festivals, and summer reading programs
- Teen programs and services, designed to support the unique needs and interests of young adults
- Adult education and workforce development, offering classes and training on topics such as job skills, technology, and entrepreneurship
By engaging with the community and responding to its needs, the JMRL helps to build a stronger, more vibrant community, promoting social cohesion, cultural enrichment, and economic development.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library’s hours of operation vary by branch, but most branches are open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, you can visit any branch location and provide proof of residency and identification. Library cards are free and available to anyone who lives, works, or owns property in the city of Charlottesville or the surrounding counties.
What types of resources and services does the library offer?
+The library offers a wide range of resources and services, including books, audiobooks, e-books, music, movies, digital media, research assistance, and programs for children, teens, and adults. The library also provides access to online learning platforms, scanning and printing services, and free Wi-Fi and public computers.
