Whether you’re looking to learn something new or simply deepen your understanding of the world, there are countless nonfiction books that will open your eyes to new ideas and perspectives. Here’s a list of nonfiction reads that will ignite your curiosity and keep you engaged from cover to cover.

The first day of school is more than just sharpened pencils and new backpacks—it’s a big leap into a new chapter of your child’s story. For many kids, it’s an exciting time filled with curiosity, but it can also bring jitters, questions, and a few butterflies in the stomach.

Every time you walk through the doors of the Coal Valley Public Library, you’re exercising a powerful right—your right to read. Whether you’re picking up a novel that makes you feel seen, exploring a subject you’ve always been curious about, or challenging yourself with a different perspective, your access to ideas is unrestricted and fiercely protected. That’s not just a perk of the library—it’s a core principle. It’s intellectual freedom in action.

June is National PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising public understanding of post-traumatic stress disorder, advocating for those affected, and connecting individuals with the resources they need to heal. At the Robert R. Jones Public Library, we believe in the power of knowledge and community support to break the silence surrounding mental health—and that begins with awareness.

Fatherhood isn’t one-size-fits-all. It can be joyous, messy, complicated, quiet, loud, traditional, or unconventional. For Father’s Day, we’ve gathered ten powerful reads that portray dads of all kinds—whether they’re navigating grief, passing on wisdom, braiding hair, or simply showing up. These books offer poignant reflections and heartfelt tributes to the role fathers play in our lives.

Pride Month is a time to celebrate love, identity, resilience, and the beautiful diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you’re looking for powerful coming-of-age stories, tender love stories, or eye-opening nonfiction, there’s a book waiting to connect with every reader—regardless of age.

If you’ve ever stayed up way too late muttering “just one more chapter” while reading The Housemaid, Never Lie, or The Coworker, then welcome—you're among friends. Frieda McFadden is the queen of binge-worthy psychological thrillers. If your life has felt a little empty since finishing her latest thriller, fear not. We've handpicked 10 heart-pounding reads that bring the same "wait—WHAT just happened?" energy.

Each May, millions of people around the world gather to celebrate Vesak, the most sacred day in the Buddhist calendar. Also known as Buddha Day, Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama—the Buddha. At the Coal Valley Public Library, we recognize the significance of this day and invite our community to reflect on the values that unite us: peace, compassion, and lifelong learning.