This is an in-person, drop-in class for adult English language learners.  Practice English conversational skills and discuss topics ranging from small talk and common interests to life, work and current events.

This is a class for English language learners.

Ages 3-5 with adult; 30 min.

Fun stories, songs, and activities for preschoolers that spark curiosity and support learning. 

Ticket required.

Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

Ages 18-35 months with adult; 20-30 min. Ticket required.

Stories, songs, and activities.

Tickets are available at the children's desk 15 minutes before the start of class.

Ages 18 mos - 3 years with adult; 20 - 30 minutes.

Stories, songs and play time.

Ticket required. Tickets will be available 15 minutes before class.

When will the next full moon be? How often is a blue moon? Why is a harvest moon so big? We'll explore these questions and more, and, with a little math involved, learn how to predict what type of moon you'll see in the sky each night.

Ages 3-5 with adult; 30 min.

Fun stories, songs, and activities for preschoolers that spark curiosity and support learning.

Ticket required. Free tickets will be available 15 minutes before class.

Ages 18-35 months with adult; 20-30 min. Ticket required.

Stories, songs, and activities.

Tickets are available at the children's desk 15 minutes before the start of class.

Join us virtually on your lunch break for a discussion of Artificial Intelligence (AI)! In this session, we will discuss recent advancements in AI.

Join us to discuss one of Anne Tyler's popular novels, French Braid.

For children who are ready for an independent class as they prepare to start school. This class introduces early learning skills such as listening, pre-reading, math, movement, and music.

Ages 3-5 with adult; 45 min.

Fun stories, songs, and activities for preschoolers that spark curiosity and support learning. 

Ages 3-5 with adult; 45 min.

Fun stories, songs, and activities for preschoolers that spark curiosity and support learning. 

After school supervised safe space for middle and high school students. Socialize with peers, work on homework, or enjoy optional games, crafts, and other activities.

A  hang out for teens to connect, play games and create.

Teen Time at HCLS East Columbia Branch is an initiative for neighborhood teens that enhances student academics in a fun, welcoming, after-school environment.

Using the iPad Pro and animation apps, learn how to create your own 2D animations. Taught by a HiTech instructor.

Ages 11 - 18. Drop-in.

Get your game on at the library! Play Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, or a mix of all three! 

Ages 6-9; 30 min. Ticket required.

Únete a un tiempo Lectura en Español nivel Basico y diviértete con actividades relacionadas con el libro de la semana.

Kindergarten- 2nd grade. 45 - 60 minutes. Registration required.

Ages 8-12; 30 min. Ticket required.

Join us for an informal Spanish conversation and homework assistance time. We will practice basic phrases and vocabulary.

Ages: 11 - 18. Meet up with fellow fans and discuss your favorite series/games. We will be watching anime together, having game demos, making art/crafts, and exploring some Japanese language/cultural tie-ins. Drop-ins encouraged and welcomed!

All ages. Allow 30 min.

Ages 6-10.  45 min.  Ticketed. 

Work together in small groups investigating hands on STEAM activities.

Tickets available at the children's desk 15 minutes before class.

2023 Maryland STEM Festival

Join us for friendly games of Mah Jongg with players of all levels of experience.  We have both American and Asian sets available!

2nd and 4th Tuesday evenings:

October 10 and 24

November 14 and 28

Ages: 11-17, parents and guardians welcome. Registration required.  Please only register your student.

This is an in-person class for beginning adult English language learners. It meets weekly in HCLS Central Branch. You will receive an email invitation to attend an orientation.

Ticket required.

Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

ages 7-11, 7:00 - 7:45 pm  Ticketed 

Read and discuss a wide array of fiction and nonfiction titles.

2nd Tuesdays, 7-8 pm

Join for a discussion of the following title:

Join other film lovers to discuss contemporary films, following the Columbia Film Society screenings. 

Imagine, design, and create. Join us for teen specific Makerspace fun as we explore paper through circuit making, engineering, and art activities.

This class is designed for adult English language learners. Improve your reading level and English language knowledge with evidence-based strategies that build your reading skills.