Upcoming Events

Featured Events

Winter night scene with trees, snow and stars

The Longest Night (All Ages and Families)

Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 10:30am - 11:15am
ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B) at East Columbia Branch

Event Details:

All ages and families.  Children under 7 with adultListen to a story about the winter solstice and create a small lantern craft.Ticket required.

Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children, Teens, Adults, Everyone
Program Type: Early Learning, Gardening & Nature, Tech Skills or STEAM
Event Details:

All ages and families.  Children under 7 with adult

Listen to a story about the winter solstice and create a small lantern craft.

Ticket required.

hands wrapping small gifts on a table

How to Wrap (Almost) Anything (ages 10+)

Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Studio B at Glenwood Branch

Event Details:

Learn how to wrap gifts of varying shapes and sizes this holiday season! All materials (including wrapping paper and boxes to practice on) are provided, and you are also welcome to...

Library Branch: Glenwood Branch
Room: Studio B
Age Group: Teens, Adults
Program Type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Registration Required
Event Details:

Learn how to wrap gifts of varying shapes and sizes this holiday season! All materials (including wrapping paper and boxes to practice on) are provided, and you are also welcome to bring your own.  

Saving seeds from beans.

Howard County Seed Library

Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 10:30am - 12:30pm
Lobby (Miller) at Miller Branch

Event Details:

The Howard County Seed Library provides a space to share free seeds to allow everyone to build their own garden or greenspaces. Anyone can take part in the Seed Library by visiting...

Library Branch: Miller Branch
Room: Lobby (Miller)
Age Group: Adults, Everyone
Program Type: Gardening & Nature
Event Details:

The Howard County Seed Library provides a space to share free seeds to allow everyone to build their own garden or greenspaces.

Gold background with gold lettering saying Happy Kwanzaa with dates 12/26-Jan 1, Lit candles three red, 1 black, three green and below the candles are some fruit (apples and oranges)

FIRST FRUITS Celebration: Kwanzaa Traditions, Creativity & Cultural Tasting

Monday, December 29, 2025 at 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Ellicott/ Patapsco Rooms at Miller Branch

Event Details:

Join us for a joyful Kwanzaa celebration honoring African heritage, creativity, and community. This family-friendly gathering features hands-on crafts, reflective art activities, e...

Library Branch: Miller Branch
Room: Ellicott/ Patapsco Rooms
Age Group: Children, Teens, Adults, Everyone
Program Type: Community Events, Culture & Language, Race, Equity & Inclusion
Registration Required
Event Details:

Join us for a joyful Kwanzaa celebration honoring African heritage, creativity, and community.

Girl flipping through a magazine.

Teen Scene Magazine: Interest Meeting (ages 11 - 17)

Monday, January 5, 2026 at 7:00pm - 7:45pm
Maxine White Warfield Room at Central Branch

Event Details:

 Ages 11 - 18. Registration required.Learn all about our *NEW* teen-led magazine in this interest meeting! Share your voice by joining our Teen Scene Magazine Committee. Write...

Library Branch: Central Branch
Room: Maxine White Warfield Room
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Art, Movies & Music, Career, Business & Finance, Crafts, Fun & Games!
Registration Required
Event Details:

 

Ages 11 - 18. Registration required.

White masquerade mask with white feather

Bridgerton Tea Party

Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 1:00pm - 3:00pm
CEN Studio at Central Branch

Event Details:

Waiting for the next season of Bridgerton to premiere? We cordially invite all fans to kick off the social season with a Bridgerton-themed tea party. Costumes are highly encou...

Library Branch: Central Branch
Room: CEN Studio
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Art, Movies & Music, Crafts, Fun & Games!
Registration Required
Event Details:

Waiting for the next season of Bridgerton to premiere? 

Children sitting for story time

Bilingual All Together Now Spanish/English (ages birth-4) TK

Monday, January 12, 2026 at 10:30am - 11:00am
ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B) at East Columbia Branch

Event Details:

All ages with adult; 30 min. Free ticket required.  Children build skills in singing, talking, listening, reading, and getting along with others through stories, music, r...

Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Early Learning
Event Details:
All ages with adult; 30 min.
Image of The Victoria and Albert Museum in London, UK

The Getty: Museums of the World, Victoria and Albert in London

Monday, January 12, 2026 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merriweather Online Classroom at Online Branch

Event Details:

The Victoria and Albert museum in London:  this class will focus on the decorative arts which run the gamut from wallpaper to jewelry, costumes and even eyeglasses. Think of t...

Library Branch: Online Branch
Room: Merriweather Online Classroom
Program Type: Art, Movies & Music, Community Events, Culture & Language, History & Genealogy
Registration Required
Event Details:

The Victoria and Albert museum in London:  this class will focus on the decorative arts which run the gamut from wallpaper to jewelry, costumes and even eyeglasses. Think of the Victoria & Albert as England’s attic!

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Teen Afterschool Programming

3:30pm–5:30pm
Teens
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio C/ Studio D/ Studio E
Age Group: Teens
Event Details:

Join us after school at the Teen Center for snack, followed by hands-on activities, creative projects, games, and chill space designed just for teens.

Elem'Up

3:45pm–5:30pm
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Makerspace (Was Homework Room)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Event Details:

Afterschool activities for ages 9-11; including arts and crafts, makerspace activities, book clubs and homework support

PJ Time (all ages)

6:30pm–7:00pm
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Early Learning

Pajama Time

All ages with adult; 30 min.  Ticket required.

A class before bedtime. Children build skills in singing, talking, listening, reading, and getting along with others through stories, music, rhymes, and activities. Children may wear their pajamas and bring their loveys and blankets.   

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

Play Partners (infant-23 months with adult)

10:30am–11:00am
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Early Learning
Event Details:

Play Partners

Ages infant - 23 months with adult; 20-30 min. Ticket required.

Infants and toddlers learn to express feelings, language, and movement through stories, baby games, musical activities, and playtime. 

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

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

Baby's Play Date (ages infant-23 months with adult)

11:00am–11:30am
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Early Learning
Event Details:

Play with toys and new friends read a board book and enjoy music developing cognitive motor and social skills. Ages infant-23 months with adult. Allow 20 min.

Play Partners (infant-23 months with adult)

1:30pm–2:00pm
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Early Learning
Event Details:

Play Partners

Ages infant - 23 months with adult; 20-30 min. Ticket required.

Infants and toddlers learn to express feelings, language, and movement through stories, baby games, musical activities, and playtime. 

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

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

Baby's Play Date (ages infant-23 months with adult)

2:00pm–2:30pm
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Early Learning
Event Details:

Play with toys and new friends read a board book and enjoy music developing cognitive motor and social skills. Ages infant-23 months with adult. Allow 20 min.

Teen Afterschool - Chess Club!

3:30pm–5:30pm
Teens
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio C/ Studio D/ Studio E
Age Group: Teens
Event Details:

Join us after school at the Teen Center for snack, followed by chess play and instruction with our local chess experts!

Grades 6 - 12

Elem'Up

3:45pm–5:30pm
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Makerspace (Was Homework Room)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Event Details:

Afterschool activities for ages 9-11; including arts and crafts, makerspace activities, book clubs and homework support

Teen Beyond Words at East Columbia Branch (Ages 11-21)

6:00pm–7:30pm
Teens
East Columbia Branch
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio C/ Studio D/ Studio E
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Registration Required
Event Details:

For Teens Ages 11-21 with learning/developmental disabilities.

Come and participate at 5 different activity stations. 

This month’s theme: HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD

Registration is required.

Cookbook corner at East Columbia Branch

6:30pm–7:30pm
Adults
East Columbia Branch
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: Marvin Thomas Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Community Events
Registration Required
Event Details:

Explore various culinary cuisines/chefs of the world. A new cuisine/chef every month.

Beyond Words at East Columbia Branch

12:30pm–2:30pm
Adults
East Columbia Branch
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio D/ Studio E
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Art, Movies & Music, Community Events, Crafts, Fun & Games!, DIY & Makerspace, Health & Wellness, Race, Equity & Inclusion, Tech Skills or STEAM
Registration Required
Event Details:

Step into the fun and active world of Beyond Words, a vibrant and inclusive monthly class designed to spark joy and ignite the imagination of young people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Teen Afterschool Programming

3:30pm–5:30pm
Teens
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio C/ Studio D/ Studio E
Age Group: Teens
Event Details:

Join us after school at the Teen Center for snack, followed by hands-on activities, creative projects, games, and chill space designed just for teens.

Elem'Up

3:45pm–5:30pm
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Makerspace (Was Homework Room)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Event Details:

Afterschool activities for ages 9-11; including arts and crafts, makerspace activities, book clubs and homework support

Lego Master Build

6:00pm–7:30pm
Everyone
East Columbia Branch
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio C/ Studio D/ Studio E
Age Group: Everyone
Program Type: Crafts, Fun & Games!, DIY & Makerspace, Tech Skills or STEAM
Registration Required
Event Details:

Unleash Your Inner Master Builder at East Columbia Library!

Tabletop Gaming Paradise

6:00pm–7:45pm
Children, Teens, Adults, Everyone
East Columbia Branch
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: East Columbia Other Location
Age Group: Children, Teens, Adults, Everyone
Program Type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Registration Required
Event Details:

East Columbia Branch Library welcomes gamers to our branch.  Join us for an evening of thrilling dice rolls and dire card draws. Explore our tabletop games collection or bring your own to share!

Winter Clay Creations: A Two-Part Air Dry Clay Workshop (ages 6-12; ages 6-7 with adult)

6:30pm–7:15pm
Children
East Columbia Branch
Closed
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: DIY & Makerspace
Registration Required
Event Details:

Ages 6-12; ages 6-7 with adult. 45 minutes. Registration required.

Nonfiction Addiction Book Club (In-Person)

6:30pm–7:30pm
Adults
East Columbia Branch
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio A (Teen Classroom)
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Book Clubs, Community Events, Culture & Language
Registration Required
Event Details:

 

 

Curious minds welcome! Come explore the world of nonfiction with us and join the conversation every third Thursday!
 

Dec 18: Abundance by Ezra Klein

Little Learners Storybook Friends (ages 2-5 with adult)

10:30am–11:15am
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Early Learning
Event Details:

Ages 2-5 with adult; 45 minutes.

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

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

Good Reads Book Club (In-Person)

1:00pm–2:00pm
Adults
East Columbia Branch
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio A (Teen Classroom)
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Book Clubs, Community Events
Registration Required
Event Details:

Looking for thought-provoking reads and engaging discussions? Join us for lively conversations in a welcoming atmosphere.

Kwanzaa Celebration: Exploring African Traditions and Creativity!

2:00pm–4:00pm
Everyone
East Columbia Branch
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Everyone
Program Type: Community Events, Race, Equity & Inclusion
Registration Required
Event Details:

Experience the culture surrounding Kwanzaa that celebrates history, values, family, and community.

For all ages/families. Registration preferred.

Register with an email address to receive an event reminder. 

Teen Afterschool Programming - FLEX FRIDAY

3:30pm–5:00pm
Teens
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Studio C/ Studio D/ Studio E
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Event Details:

A relaxed, flexible time for teens to decompress, socialize, and hang out at the end of the week. Self-directed activities include games, music, crafts, and more.

The Longest Night (All Ages and Families)

10:30am–11:15am
Children, Teens, Adults, Everyone
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children, Teens, Adults, Everyone
Program Type: Early Learning, Gardening & Nature, Tech Skills or STEAM
Event Details:

All ages and families.  Children under 7 with adult

Listen to a story about the winter solstice and create a small lantern craft.

Ticket required.

Little Learners Bingo (ages 2-5 with adult) TK

2:00pm–2:30pm
Children
East Columbia Branch
Library Branch: East Columbia Branch
Room: ECO Children's Classroom (Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B)
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Early Learning
Event Details:

Ages 2-5 with adult; 30 minutes.

Identify beginning sounds, build vocabulary, identify colors and shapes while having fun playing BINGO! 

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