Our annual librarian-curated roundup of books, TV shows, movies, and music is here! Explore staff favorites across every age and interest. Discover our staff’s favorite movies, TV shows, and music on this page or browse more using the links below.
Adult fiction: General | Adult fiction: Romance, lives & relationships |
Adult fiction: Thriller, graphic novel, sci-fi & fantasy | Adult nonfiction |
Teen fiction & nonfiction | Kids books | Picture books | Movies & TV shows | Music
Movies & TV shows
Arcane, Season 2
Why you should try it: “This finale to one of the best animated series of all time is incredible and packed with action, emotion, tragedy, and, also, moments of joy. Not only is the story amazing, but the animation is revolutionary and unlike anything I’ve ever watched before. This season has won every award it’s been nominated for this year, and it’s SO deserved!” —Camille, Collections Services Library Assistant
Description: Following Jinx’s devastating attack on the Council, the conflict between utopian Piltover and underground Zaun escalates to all-out war. As both sides grapple with the new threat of the brutal empire of Noxus, further experimentation with the powerful yet volatile Hextech may spell disaster for them all.
Better Man
Why you should try it: “Andy Serkis’s Planet of the Apes meets Elton John’s Rocketman. Off-the-charts charisma, musicality, weirdness, and creativity. I need a tattoo of it (which is the highest praise coming from me). This is part of my DNA now.” —Koko, Patron Services Library Assistant
Description: Better Man is based on the true story of the meteoric rise, dramatic fall, and remarkable resurgence of British pop superstar Robbie Williams. It follows Robbie’s journey from childhood to being the youngest member of chart-topping boy band Take That, through to his unparalleled achievements as a record-breaking solo artist, all the while confronting the challenges that stratospheric fame and success can bring.
Companion
Why you should try it: “You can kind of guess where the story is going pretty early on, but it’s such a fun time, and Sophie Thatcher is great.” —Andrea, Collections Services Library Clerk
Description: A group of old friends reunite at a secluded mansion, but their weekend getaway goes sideways when someone is not what they seem.
Day of the Jackal, Season 1
Why you should try it: “A cat and mouse show where you don’t know what is going to happen. The scenery is amazing.” —Ginger, Staff Learning & Well-Being Specialist
Description: Follows an elite assassin, known as The Jackal, as he works towards carrying out a seemingly impossible hit. However, his actions soon attract the attention of a British intelligence officer, Bianca, who sets out to hunt him down before his next kill.
Final Destination: Bloodlines
Why you should try it: “The beloved classic of the original movie franchise, Final Destination, new and improved with a blood-soaking twist in each scene. Are you ready for your Final Destination? This movie franchise will forever be iconic to horror films and fans alike.” —Zaria, Children’s Services Library Assistant
Description: Plagued by a violent recurring nightmare, college student Stefanie heads home to track down the one person who might be able to break the cycle and save her family from the grisly demise that inevitably awaits them all.
Flow
Why you should try it: “Excuse me while I sob uncontrollably at this wordless, animated, animal movie.” —Jenna, Collection Management Librarian (also recommended by Dontaná, Collection Management Librarian)
Description: This thrilling tale of friendship and survival follows a courageous cat after its home is devastated by a great flood. As the cat teams up with a capybara, a lemur, a bird, and a dog to navigate a boat in search of dry land, the crew must rely on trust, bravery, and their wits to survive the perils of a newly aquatic planet.
The Gilded Age, Season 3
Why you should try it: “The Gilded Age has really hit its stride with this season. The costumes continue to stun, and the drama fed me so well this season. Loved the addition of Phylicia Rashad this season, and can’t wait for the next one. Will have you going down rabbit holes looking up the real-life figures.” —Margita, Adult Services Supervising Librarian
Description: As power shifts and passions ignite, the Russells gamble everything while ambition, love, and legacy collide in Gilded Age New York.
Honey Don’t
Why you should try it: “Margaret Qualley and her variety of accents are a national treasure.” —Andrea, Collection Services Library Clerk
Description: Honey O’Donahue is a small-town private investigator who delves into a series of strange deaths tied to a mysterious church.
The Life of Chuck
Why you should try it: “A completely overlooked film featuring a beautiful score, affecting story, and Tom Hiddleston’s dance moves.” —Koko, Patron Services Library Assistant
Description: Throughout the stages of his life, Charles “Chuck” Krantz experiences the wonder of love, the heartbreak of loss, and the importance our connection to others creates in the world.
The Naked Gun
Why you should try it: “This is the most ridiculous movie that you never knew you needed. It keeps the spirit and non-PC humor of the original while updating it with a modern story. And Liam Neeson is perfect in the lead role.” —Michelle, Patron Services Supervisor
Description: Only one man has the particular set of skills… to lead Police Squad and save the world! Lt. Frank Drebin Jr. follows in his father’s footsteps.
One Battle After Another
Why you should try it: “I was worried about the length, but this movie flew by—unique, riveting, full of action. Commentary on modern society as well, and even has humor throughout despite the subject matter. Great acting, and Sean Penn has the most unique walk in this one.” —Margita, Adult Services Supervising Librarian
Description: A former member of a revolutionary group seeks help from other revolutionaries to find his missing daughter.
Patience, Season 1
Why you should try it: “It’s rare to get a nuanced and engaging story about an autistic character, but Ella May Purvey is an autistic and ADHD actress and absolutely nails the role of Patience. We see her strengths as much as we see her difficulties, and how they all tie together to make her who she is. The mysteries to be solved are just as great.” —Shelley, Children’s Services Librarian
Description: Patience Evans has always been a bit different. She views the world in a unique way because she has a special gift; she is autistic. Patience works in the Police Criminal Records Office, and Detective Inspector Bea Metcalf notices that Patience makes connections in cases that other people don’t. Bea wants Patience on her team, not realizing that a change in routine could be destabilizing. As Bea learns more about Patience’s traumatic upbringing and how autism affects her life, the two women form an unlikely friendship and a formidable crimefighting partnership.
Sinners
Why you should try it: A certified staff favorite! Staff called it a “masterpiece” and said that it “deserves all of the hype.” Also, just give Michael B. Jordan the Oscar.
“I love this movie so much. The acting, the story, the completely epic moment of seeing a family member in a major movie. Everything about this movie is perfection.” —Dontaná, Collection Management Librarian
“What a fantastic movie. The acting is well done, the music is fantastic and it looks like great. Includes lots of great little details that tell you about the time period.” —Margita, Adult Services Supervising Librarian
“This movie is the epitome of horror, fantasy and Black community all in one.” —Zaria, Children’s Services Library Assistant
Although some wish they saw it in IMAX, Ben says, “The history, the music, and the magic was as dazzling on DVD (I love special features!) as it was in theaters.” —Ben, Collection Services Library Clerk (also recommended by Andrea, Collection Management Librarian; Andrea, Collections Services Library Clerk; Camille, Collections Services Library Assistant; Jenna, Collection Management Librarian & Koko, Patron Services Library Assistant)
Description: Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.
Smile 2
Why you should try it: This is a new take on horror films that I really enjoyed. This movie plays with the audience’s and the actors’ reality in a sick, twisted way. It gets an A+ on the gore and the storyline! —Zaria, Children’s Services Library Assistant
Description: About to embark on a new world tour, global pop sensation Skye Riley begins experiencing increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events. Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and the pressures of fame, Skye is forced to face her dark past to regain control of her life before it spirals out of control.
Superman
Why you should try it: “Superman is punk rock, and so is his dog.” —Andrea, Collections Services Library Clerk
Description: Superman must reconcile his alien Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as reporter Clark Kent. As the embodiment of truth, justice, and the human way, he soon finds himself in a world that views these as old-fashioned.
Thunderbolts
Why you should try it: “I love a superhero movie with honest, frank depictions of mental illness. In these trying times, we all need therapy more than ever, and if we can teach emotional intelligence via Marvel movies, then so be it.” —Andrea, Collections Services Library Clerk
“Easily a top-five Marvel movie for me, and one of the best movies of the year. Yes, there are superheroes, but they are also depressed and traumatized people who’ve hit rock bottom and are starting to realize that they are worth the effort of self-care and love. At its core, it’s about the toll of abuse and the need for community. —Shelley, Children’s Services Librarian
Description: After finding themselves ensnared in a death trap set by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, these disillusioned castoffs must embark on a dangerous mission that will force them to confront the darkest corners of their pasts. Will this dysfunctional group tear themselves apart, or find redemption and unite as something much more before it’s too late?
Weapons
Why you should try it: “This movie has everything, seven hot dogs, cardio, and multiple points of view. It’s horror with a sprinkle of comedy and an unforgettable villain. The jump scares got me, even though I watched it in the comfort of home.” —Margita, Adult Services Supervising Librarian
“You’ll laugh, you’ll get jumpscared, you’ll never think about soup the same way again.” —Andrea, Collections Services Library Clerk (also recommended by Andrea, Collection Management Librarian & Fiona, Middle School Librarian)
Description: When all but one child from the same class mysteriously vanish on the same night at exactly the same time, a community is left questioning who or what is behind their disappearance.
The Woman in the Yard
Why you should try it: “A slow-burning psychological thriller that is deeply haunting. I really appreciated the way this movie tackles topics like mental health.” —Fiona, Middle School Librarian
Description: A mysterious woman repeatedly appears in a family’s front yard, often delivering chilling warnings or unsettling messages, leaving the residents to question her identity, motives, and the potential danger she might pose.
Music
Alligator Bites Never Heal by Doechii
Why you should try it: “A fantastic artist with another fantastic album. If you love her previous work, you can’t go wrong.” —Andrea, Collection Management Librarian (also recommended by Camayia, Communications Specialist)
Description: On her most ambitious and musically diverse release to date, the TDE rapper and singer meets the pressures of success with defiance and irreverence. (Pitchfork)
Arcane League of Legends, Season 2: Original Soundtrack
Why you should try it: “One of the best examples of integrating music into your show/film. You remember exactly what was happening when you hear these bonkers, original tunes. Spans the full range of emotion. It’s giving cinema and pure art.” —Koko, Patron Services Library Assistant & Camille, Collections Services Library Assistant
Description: Building on the success of Season 1’s chart-topping tracks like Enemy by Imagine Dragons, the new album enlists a fresh mix of artists who bring their unique styles to the show. From Mike Shinoda to d4vd to Stromae to Twenty One Pilots, the soundtrack is stacked with talent, which is certainly felt listening through. (CULTR)
Cruel Joke by Ken Pomeroy
Why you should try it: “Ken Pomeroy was on the Twisters soundtrack (excellent) and has a supporting acting role in the TV series The Lowdown (also excellent), but the Cherokee Oklahoman shines brightest on her solo folk album that is so soothing to the ears.” —Jenna, Collection Management Librarian
Description: Ken Pomeroy exists in the intersection of past, present, and future; effortlessly channeling the ancestral wisdom of her elders and her lived experience through her lyrical and instrumental composition.
Dead Channel Sky Plus by clipping.
Why you should try it: “clipping. is an absolutely revolutionary musical project, blurring the lines between hip-hop, industrial, shoecase, electronica, noise, and more. Their amazing MC, Daveed Diggs, spins tales beyond the usual urban realism one expects in modern hip-hop and explores horror, science fiction, noir, and so much more. On this album, clipping. takes on a sort of cyberpunk dystopia through subverting club music, and the results are amazing.” —Michael, Adult Services Library Assistant
Description: LA rappers look back to a classic 1984 novel for a dark vision of a cyberpunk future set to the big beats of 90s club music. (The Quietus)
The Human Fear by Franz Ferdinand
Why you should try it: “If it’s been a while since you’ve listened to Franz Ferdinand, it might be time to come back. An eclectic collection of songs that come together into a fun album.” —Andrea, Collection Management Librarian
Description: The sixth studio album by Franz Ferdinand was produced with Mark Ralph, who previously worked with the band on their 2013 album Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action. Recorded at AYR studios in Scotland, the 11 songs allude to some deep-set human fears and how overcoming and accepting these fears drives and defines our lives.
Idols by YUNGBLUD
Why you should try it: “GOD, this man can siiiiiing. The voice? Insane. The look? Wicked. The vision? Legendary.” —Koko, Patron Services Library Assistant
Description: YUNGBLUD releases his highly anticipated fourth album, which he describes as “a project with no limitations,” marking his boldest and most ambitious work yet.
KPop Demon Hunters: Soundtrack
Why you should try it: “This movie soundtrack features the first all-girl group [HUNTR/X] to top the HOT 100 since Destiny’s Child. Movie aside, this soundtrack stands on its own with well-produced songs about self-empowerment, finding our family, and conquering our demons—made all the more powerful after learning the lead vocalist’s story.” —Joey, Children’s Services Library Assistant
Description: A soundtrack full of anthems that help move the film’s story forward, that also stand on their own as replay-worthy K-pop hits. (Billboard)
Lost Americana by mgk
Why you should try it: “This is mgk at his truest, most authentic self! Though interestingly not the musical genres he’s known for, the themes and messages here come straight from the heart, and I respect anyone’s who’s unafraid of being themself.” —Koko, Patron Services Library Assistant
Description: Mgk releases his seventh studio album. It is his own rediscovery of the American dream, a journey to find what has been lost. With help from his longtime collaborators, mgk reaffirms his signature alt-pop rock sound, uniquely layered with guitars that are coated with emotion and cinematic sonics.
Never Enough by Turnstile
Why you should try it: “If you ever need a one-person mosh pit album, this one is for you.” —Andrea, Collection Management Librarian
Description: The biggest band in hardcore grows big enough to encompass electronic rhythms and flute meditation. Its new album winks to outsize expectations but answers to a higher calling. (Pitchfork)
Sinners: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Why you should try it: “You love the movie, but sometimes you’re busy and can’t sit down to watch the movie. The soundtrack is basically the movie but for your ears.” —Andrea, Collection Management Librarian
Description: Mutant and Sony Masterworks present the Sinners soundtrack, executive produced by Ludwig Göransson, Ryan Coogler, and Serena Göransson. Featuring original recordings from artists like James Blake, Cedric Burnside, Jerry Cantrell, Rhiannon Giddens, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard, Don Toliver, and Rod Wave, the album complements the film’s powerful storytelling with a dynamic, genre-blending sound.
Superman: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Why you should try it: “It’s like the movie for your ears. This score better be nominated for an Oscar!!! Though it probably won’t be!!!” —Koko, Patron Services Library Assistant
Description: WaterTower Music releases the soundtrack to James Gunn’s new Superman movie, featuring music from composers John Murphy and David Fleming.
West End Girl by Lily Allen
Why you should try it: “Listen to the album everyone has been talking about. An addicting album that follows the breakdown of Lily Allen’s recent divorce. Fascinating songs and be warned they are very catchy.” —Margita, Adult Services Supervising Librarian
“This is pure art disguised as pop music.” —Kathy, Collection Management Librarian (also recommended by Koko, Patron Services Library Assistant)
Description: Lily Allen returns with her long-awaited fifth studio album. Written and recorded over an intense 10-day period, blending raw honesty with infectious pop craftsmanship, documenting elements of her time in New York with piercing clarity and insight.