This is what you’ve been searching for.

We dug into Google’s latest data to discover the hobbies, activities, and questions surging nationwide, then did the legwork to point you to local recommendations. Let’s dive in.

📚 Search: "Book club near me"

Book lovers are looking for ways to connect, and Richmond has plenty of options.

RVA Literary League | This group is the local branch of a book club with over 35 chapters — they meet on the last Tuesday of each month.
Reading Between the Wines | Call or email the store to join this monthly meetup that takes place every second Tuesday. The next meetup is Wednesday, Aug. 12, to discuss "The Exquisite Torment of Loving Your Enemy."
Richmond Book Club | Head to Capital Ale House-Midlothian on the third Wednesday of the month to discuss books with this longstanding group. Bonus: They tend to choose books that are easy to find at the library, or relatively low cost.

🤝 Search: "Community volunteer"

Searches for volunteer opportunities reached a 10-year high this year. Ready to give back? Start with our guide to 50+ places to volunteer in Richmond, featuring everything from food banks and nonprofits to animal shelters.

🧘 Search: "Classes near me"

Rollerskating, Pilates, and Spanish classes all ranked among Google’s breakout searches over the past month. Here’s where to sign up in Richmond:

Skate-A-Way in Midlothian has classes on Tuesdays and Saturdays, each of which is followed by an open skating period. Classes start at the beginning of each month, so stay tuned for September.
At Niche Pilates Studio, you can purchase a $75 two-week intro package, which includes four class credits so that you can explore the full course schedule.
All experience levels can find a class for them at Speak Spanish RVA, which takes a conversational and immersive approach to learning the language.

🀄 Search: "Mahjong for beginners"

This search jumped 230% over the past year. If you’re itching to learn, these spots offer classes for beginners:

RichMahj | This local company offers 101 and 201 private courses for small groups.
Let's Mahj RVA | Check out upcoming 101 Starter Series classes.
Richmond Mah Jongg League | Join this Facebook group for advice from fellow players + upcoming lessons, games, and tournaments.

What else are you searching for in Richmond? Tell us what you’re trying to find, and you may find an answer in an upcoming edition. Psst: Check out our "find your niche" article first.