News Flash

In February 2026, Roanoke Valley Libraries will transition to Polaris, a new online catalog designed for easy and efficient use. RVL member libraries in Botetourt County, City of Roanoke, City of Salem, and Roanoke County are excited to offer this improved experience for all RVL patrons. 

The upgrade will improve how users search, manage, and access library materials. After the launch, library patrons will be able to:

• Navigate the catalog on their phone, tablet, or computer.
• Use Smart Searches, which have spell-check and automated search suggestions. 
• Check out and hold eBooks, audiobooks, and more in the catalog.
• Select a preferred pickup location from any participating library location. 
• Choose to renew material automatically three days before it’s due.
• Change communication preferences to be contacted via email or text.
• See library locations integrated with Google Maps.
• Continue using features they already use, such as keeping track of what they’ve checked out, maintain existing holds, and create reading lists. 

During the transition to the new catalog, some library services or catalog functions may be temporarily unavailable from February 15-24 with the catalog launching on February 25.

Roanoke Valley Libraries will remain open and active during the catalog transition period. Patrons can continue attending programs, accessing digital materials through Libby and Hoopla, browsing and checking out items in person, using public computers and printers, and studying or working at library locations.  

The mobile app will release an update with the new software and a new name, RVL Go. Keep an eye out for details and an update on your mobile device if you already have the app.

We appreciate your patience during this transition and look forward to serving you with an improved online library experience.

Construction is anticipated to start in Spring 2026 with completion being Spring/Summer 2027. 

View additional concept images here.

A new StoryWalk® structure is now available at the South County Library, offering families an engaging way to combine reading, movement, and outdoor exploration. The project was made possible through funding from the Friends of the Library.

StoryWalk® installations place the pages of a children’s book along a walking path, encouraging children and caregivers to read together while enjoying the outdoors. The new structure provides a permanent, accessible way for the library to rotate stories throughout the year and expand early literacy opportunities beyond the building.

A ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the new StoryWalk® will be held on Thursday, January 22 at 4pm at the South County Library in the children’s area followed by a walk down to the wetlands trail. Community members and families are invited to attend.

Curious about the Friends of the Library? Members of the Friends of the Roanoke County Public Library (FOL) organization are people who believe a strong public library is essential to Roanoke Valley, contribute their support to achieve this goal, and work for a cause important to them and to their community. Each year the FOL sponsors the annual Summer Reading Program and more.

The South County Library’s StoryWalk® supports literacy development, physical activity, and family engagement, reflecting the library’s ongoing commitment to learning at every age.

Listen anywhere, anytime! Borrow audiobooks on Libby or hoopla and turn every drive, walk, or chore into storytime.

All free with your library card! 

Did you know that you can read The Roanoke Times for free with your library card through Newsbank?

The Roanoke Times shows full images of the daily paper from 2018 to today and full-text articles from 1990 to the current issue. Create alerts for specific search criteria, read and listen to articles, and save the items to your account. Available through Newsbank.

Need a library card? Find out more on how to get one here.

Families are invited to lace up their reading skills this winter and score a free hockey experience through the Winter Reading Challenge. Children who complete the challenge will earn a free children’s ticket to see the Rail Yard Dawgs play on Saturday, March 7, 2026.

The Winter Reading Challenge runs January 5 through February 14 and is open to children up to age 11.

• Children up to age 5 complete the challenge by reading 20 books.

• Children ages 6–11 complete the challenge by reading 5 books.

All book formats and lengths count.Each child who completes the challenge will receive a small prize and one complimentary ticket to the March 7 Rail Yard Dawgs game. Tickets are valid in select seating sections and must be redeemed using a QR code provided upon completion. Tickets cannot be redeemed through the box office or team websites.

Families may also purchase additional discounted tickets for parents or guests using the same QR code. Parking is available for purchase, and a free shuttle will run from the Elmwood Park Garage in downtown Roanoke for those who prefer not to drive.

In addition to completion prizes, each participating branch will award special branch prizes to one child in each age group following the conclusion of the challenge based on drawings.Ages 0-5: Board Book version of The Mitten by Jan Brett & matching flannel story (flannel pieces & felt board).Ages 6-11: Don't Break the Ice board game & Penguin Plush

The Winter Reading Challenge is designed to encourage reading for fun while giving families a memorable community experience. For more information, families are encouraged to contact their favorite RCPL location.