Week Calendar

Walking is a great way to get some activity into your routine.  Lets get up and walk together. Come and walk around East Columbia Library. Please wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle.

This is a class for adult English language learners.  Practice conversational skills and discuss topics ranging from small talk and common interests to life, work and current events.  If you're new to this class, you'll receive an email invit

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

Ages 3-5 with adult; 30 min. Ticket required.

Explore simple concepts inspired by children's literature.

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

Ages 2-5 with adult. 30 minutes. Ticket required. Free tickets will be available 15 minutes before class.

Tales, tunes, and tons of fun!

Ages 0-5 with adult. 30 minutes. Ticket required.

Únase a nosotros para cuentos, canciones y rimas en español. Seguido de un tiempo de juego.

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.

Allow 20 min.

Play with our toys, read a board book, enjoy music, and visit with others.

This class is designed for English language learners. Improve your spoken English as we focus on listening and speaking skills with an emphasis on everyday pronunciation, intonation, and stress, as well as unique American rhythms.

This class is designed for English language learners who are interested in taking the US citizenship exam. You'll receive an email invitation to attend an orientation first.  This orientation is required for all participants. 

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

TIME FOR US

Ages 18 months-3 years with adult; 30 min.

Develop early learning skills through stories, songs, fingerplays, and rhymes.

Ticket required.

Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

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

This is an in-person class for English language learners.

This virtual class is designed for adult English language learners who are interested in working as IT Support Specialist.  Participants learn about the work setting, responsibilities, potential earnings, and a pathway to advance in the IT field.&

Join other adults who knit, crochet, embroider, and sew, in an open forum for creating, conversing, sharing, and learning. This is a hybrid event, so if you would like to attend remotely via Zoom, contact pinsneedlearts@hclibrary.org.

This virtual class is designed for adult English language learners. Practice speaking skills in a supportive environment. Students read one short story each week and discuss it in class.

JUST FOR ME

Ages 3-6; 30 min.

For children who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, and early reading skills.

Limited Attendance. Ticket required.

Ages 2-5, with adult. 30 min. Ticket required.

Let’s have fun learning about senses! Discover how animals use their senses! Contact with an animal may occur. Presented by The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.

This is an in-person class designed for intermediate adult English language learners.  Learn English in a supportive environment to improve your reading, writing, speaking, listening and pronunciation skills.

Ticket required.

Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

Tickets required. Tickets issued 15 minutes before the beginning of class.

This class is designed for adult English language learners.  Parents of children aged ten and younger will gain a better understanding of informal spoken English and increase their knowledge of English vocabulary, especially as

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

Ticket required.

Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

Ages 0-5 with adult. 30 minutes. Ticket required.

Únase a nosotros para cuentos, canciones y rimas en español. Seguido de un tiempo de juego.

Join early learning specialist Evelyn Williams English author of “Brainy Acts: Build your Child’s Brain for Success”

Ages 3-5 with adult; 30 min. Ticket required.

Explore simple concepts inspired by children's literature.

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

Ages 2-5 with adult. 30 minutes. Ticket required. Free tickets will be available 15 minutes before class.

Tales, tunes, and tons of fun!

Are you a Libra, Taurus, Cancer, or Gemini? How can you find out, and what does it mean? Little did you know...there's an equation for that!

Participants will learn how to create a paper mosaic using old magazines. The class will cover topics on drawing techniques, enlarging using a grid method, color, and tonal values.

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 3-5 with adult. Ticket required. Only 12 spots available.

JUST FOR ME

Ages 3-6; 30 min.

For children who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, and early reading skills.

Limited Attendance. Ticket required.

Ages 2-5 with adult; 30 minutes.

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

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

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

Battle of the Books teams may pick up their free set of books.

The Howard County Muslim Council is offering a free food giveaway from 11am - 1pm, or until supplies run out, in the parking lot of the Elkridge Branch of the Howard County Library System. 

Did you know nearly 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins are landfilled each year?

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

Materials found on the forest floor, in the supermarket, and in the winter garden can be turned into decorations to instill the warmth of the holiday season into your home. Tips on creating a variety of items will be shared.

Join us to discuss Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn

Join us for an in person discussion of Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe on Thursday, November 16, 2023 12 pm at the Central Branch.  * This session may be held in the Central Children's Classr

While playing computer games, participants will engage in fun breakout groups, and teams will discuss social topics, take quizzes, and earn rewards – all while being mentored and building and enhancing reading and math abilities.

Upcycle household items into beautiful art. Rethink the value of the original items/materials. Presented by the teen-led Clarksville Youth Care Group. Drop in.

The Walters Art Museum presents a landmark installation of its Asian and Islamic collections, offering new ways to examine and experience both Asian and Islamic art.

Ticket required. Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

Therapy dog(s) from Pets on Wheels will be at the East Columbia Branch for friendly visits with customers. Drop in - no registration required. 

Showcase your Super Smash Bros: Ultimate skills on the Nintendo Switch in our Smash Bros Tournament! Compete in a friendly competition against your peers for a prize. Sign up ahead of time to reserve your spot in the bracket.

Join us for an afternoon of dice-rolling, card-slapping, and strategic thinking as we host a tabletop gaming extravaganza at the Savage Branch!

The arts at their core are about telling stories. Jasmine Pigott, tuba, is exploring multiple art forms in her program "Visions" combining her writing of spoken word with composition for solo tuba.

Ages 3-5 with adult; 30 min.

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

Tickets required. Tickets issued 15 minutes before the beginning of class.

Following a brief overview of his knitting career and experiences as a designer and world traveler, Sam Barsky introduces participants to a variety of knitting techniques his uses to create his charming sweater designs.

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.

Looking forward to visiting friends and family this holiday season?  Come learn about smartphone photography so you can capture those memories and save them for later!  We'll go over the basic functions of smartphone cameras, including t

Ages 3-5, 30 minutes. RG, registration required. 

For children who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, early reading and math skills.

Read and discuss light-hearted books that will make us smile. The books will talk about love, hope, and grace. They will include humor, and perhaps some snark, to spice things up. It will be fun! Join us. 

3rd Thursdays: 2 - 3 pm

Let your creativity shine in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Join us every month to learn about different art media and explore new techniques.

Ages 6-9. 45 minutes. Ticket required. Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

Ages 7 & up (7-8 year olds must be accompanied by an adult). 60 min.  RG, registration required.

Chemistry in the Library - National Chemistry Week

“The Healing Power of Chemistry”

Do you need a new (or first!) resume? This workshop will offer hands on assistance in locating resume templates, filling out your resume, and even having your resume edited through HCLS resources.

Celebrate the 101st birthday of Carroll Baldwin Hall, Savage’s Community Center, with a movie about a bookish young girl who discovers she has telekenetic powers and uses them to make things better for herself and her friends.

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.

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.

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.

3rd Wednesday’s 3:30PM-5:30PM

Oct 18; Nov 15; Dec 20

Oakmont Village Apartments

11090 Resort Rd Ellicott City, MD 21043

Tercer Miércoles 3:30PM-5:30PM

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.

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.

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

Want to join a team? Interested in being part of a team? Interested in coding? Interested in design? Want to build a robot? Then FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) might just be the perfect competition for you!

Ages 11-18 | Walk in, no registration needed, space is limited.  

Have you ever looked at a digital illustration and wondered "How did they do that?" Learn tips, tricks, and the steps to creating your own illustration in the iPad app, Procreate. Taught by a HiTech instructor.

Dive into the world of special effects, through the view of a Makeup Artist! Students will learn the history and science behind the film industry’s own movie magic.

Ages 11 - 18. Drop-in.

Ages 11-17. Drop-in.

READY, SET, POUR!  Using paint, pouring medium, and canvases, learn about how chemistry and fluid dynamics can create amazing works of art. Taught by a HiTech instructor.

Ages 11-18 | Walk in, no registration needed, space is limited.  

Grades 4-6. 60 minutes. RG, registered.

Discussions about state award nominees. Vote for a winner in April. Eight-month series. Copies will be held for registered students at the Central Branch Customer Service Desk.

Students who are ages 5-9 and in grades Kindergarten-3rd. 60 minutes. RG, Registered.

Explore how art, technology, and science can be combined by participating in different activities.

Ages 11-18 | Walk in, no registration needed, space is limited.  

AV Lab
Drop-in to use the equipment in the A/V Studio! Record and mix music or create and edit movies with the help of a HiTech Instructor.
No registration required. Grades 6-12.

Ages 2-5 with adult. Allow 30 min.

Drop in and make some fun crafts.

Ages 11 - 17. Registration required.

Ages 9-12. Registration required.

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.

Ages 4 and up.  Allow 15 minutes.  Drop in.  

Pop-in and make a craft inspired by Diwali!

30 Minutes. Ages 6-11. Ticket required.

14+ adult AV lab
Drop-in to use the equipment in the A/V Studio! Record and mix music or create and edit movies with the help of a HiTech Instructor.
No registration required.

Ages 6-9. 45 minutes. Ticket required. Free tickets available 15 minutes before class. 

Boost your engineering skills by building with Magformers®.  

Battle of the Books teams may pick up their free set of books.

Adults. 45-60 minutes. Registration required, one per household. 

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

This is an in-person class for English language learners. It focuses on essential English grammar and on the basics of writing for work and personal communication. The class meets every Monday night at the Central Branch.

Ages 3-5 with adult. Ticket required. Only 12 spots available.

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.

Bring one of your favorite stuffed animals for an overnight of excitement after the library closes!

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:

November 14 and 28

December 12

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.

Prepare to step into a world of boundless imagination, where heroes are born, and legends are forged.

This class an in-person class designed for intermediate English language learners who wish to improve their English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills.  The class meets in HCLS Central Branch.

Tired of calling your parents for help with basic tasks? Join other teens and young adults to learn basic clothing maintenance, including simple hand sewing, stain removal tips, and what those weird laundry care icons on tags actually mean.

Have a National History Day project? Need a little help with sources, a thesis statement, or annotated bibliography? Drop in and speak to an NHD judge and librarian. Drop in.

Step up your craftiness with the Makerspace this fall.  Using the Glenwood Branch + Makerspace Laser Cutter/Engraver, you can create custom fall decorations in this make it / take it class.  Learn basic graphic design skills in Adobe Ill

Families; allow 30 minutes. Drop in.

Explore and engage in various STEM activities through self-guided stations.

This is a class for English Language Learners.  Practice conversational skills and discuss topics like small talk, common interests, life, work, and current events in a safe and supportive environment. The is an in-person class that meets in

DEAR: DOGS EDUCATING AND ASSISTING READERS 

Ages 5-10; allow 20 min. Parent/guardian must sign permission slip or have one on file prior to participating.

Join us for a discussion of fiction or non-fiction titles that embrace universal themes.