These are strange days, my friends. So much has changed (and keeps changing) that it can be hard to keep up.

At the library, we’ve been learning new technology to serve our community and moving storytimes and other programs to virtual platforms. We connect with our patrons by phone, email and social media — sometimes you leave chalk-drawn messages for us to find saying how much you miss the library. The fact is, we miss you, too. The buildings might be closed to the public, but we’re still here for you — working hard to make sure that the community has access to resources when they need them the most. Ask a Librarian service is available by phone at (803) 785-2681 or email at ask@lexcolibrary.com. You can also give us a call at any of our local branches.

Whatever this season looks like for you, I hope you’re continuing to read. Books have always been good companions to me — during grief and transition or a sunny day in my backyard. Whether you just need to escape for a moment or you want to find yourself in the pages — reading can help.

Here are some familiar faces and the books that have been keeping us company: