2020 Fall SOURCE

Howard County Library System

sep-nov 2020

A W A R D-W INNING

Classes & Events Guide

sponsored by Friends & Foundation of Howard County Library System

Libraries Stand Against Racism

Letter from the President and CEO

V25 N3

source

hclibrary.org

C O N T A C T L E S S P I C K U P H O U R S (ASOF9/1)

Monday – Wednesday Thursday Friday & Saturday

10 am – 6 pm 10 am - 8 pm 10 am – 6 pm

HOLIDAYS + CLOSINGS

Labor Day

Sep 6 & 7

Veterans Day

Nov 11

Thanksgiving *close at 5 on 11/25

Nov 26 & 27*

LOCATIONS + NUMBERS HOURSplus 0NLINE PHONE RENEWALS

410.313.7890

410.313.78 1 0

CENTRAL BRANCH

410.313.7800

EAST COLUMBIA BRANCH

410.313.7700

10375 Little Patuxent Parkway Columbia, MD 21044 6600 Cradlerock Way Columbia, MD 21045

ELKRIDGE BRANCH 410.313.5077

6540 Washington Boulevard Elkridge, MD 21075 GLENWOOD BRANCH

410.313.5577

2350 State Route 97 Cooksville, MD 21723 MILLER BRANCH

9421 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042

SAVAGE BRANCH

9525 Durness Lane Laurel, MD 20723

410.313.1950

This issue is a bit different from previous issues, but then, our lives are more than a bit different than when we last published source this spring. When we closed our doors in mid-March, our innovative team pivoted quickly and effectively to begin working remotely. We developed and taught online classes, planned opportunities for virtual connection and engagement, bolstered our eContent, developed a Small Business Resources page on our website, and began planning a phased reopening. Throughout this issue, you will read about our community engagement activities during this time, learn more about our Art Education and DIY collections, discover online resources for job seekers and students, and look ahead to what is happening this fall, including voter education events and a number of fascinating authors and speakers.

We invite you to speak out as well. Join us for a virtual Longest Table (p. 3), featuring Daryl Davis who convinced members of the Ku Klux Klan to leave that organization through conversations and building relationships. Learn how the power of connecting with one another can lead to substantive change, then connect with new friends as we discuss issues facing our community.

This fall we continue our work toward equity and racial justice. People of color are placed at increased risk of contracting COVID-19 and experiencing hunger and other difficulties at higher rates than White people due to systemic health and social inequities. Racism is still embedded within our schools, workplaces, criminal justice system, and health systems. The impacts of redlining continue to negatively impact communities of color decades after the practice was abolished and the Fair Housing Act began. The list goes on and on and on. We must be ever cognizant that precious lives make up the statistics on that list. Precious lives mistreated, disciplined more harshly than their White counterparts, denied opportunity, and unnecessarily cut short.

At Howard County Library System, we believe that public libraries have the responsibility to advance social equity and can help achieve true and sustained equity through an intentional, systemic and transformative library-community partnership.

That is why I invite you to join us in committing to and engaging in an educational pursuit for justice. This is a journey that will impact our entire organization and our community. We know that we are stronger together. Learn and act with us.

Best Regards,

410.313.0760

PRESIDENTIAL CIRCLE ($10,000+)

ADMINISTRATIVE BRANCH 410.313.7750

9411 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042

TTY FOR HEARING IMPAIRED Central 410.3 1 3.7883 East Columbia 410.3 1 3.77 70 Elkridge 410.3 1 3.5090 Glenwood 410.3 1 3.5597 Miller 410.3 1 3. 1 957 Savage

410.880.5867

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Robert A. Mentz, Chair Ankur (Andy) P. Dalal, Vice Chair Thomas K. Munns, Treasurer Phillip M. Dodge Anne R. Markus Bruce I. Rothschild Antonia B. Watts

Tonya Aikens President & CEO

Yolanda and Francis Bruno Family Fund Friends & Foundation of HCLS Howard County Public School System

bigthanks

Howard Hughes Corporation Josephine B. Scheffenacker Education Trust M&T Bank Estate of Janet Ziffer

ACCOMMODATIONS: Appropriate accommodations made at Howard County Library System (HCLS) sponsored events for individuals with special needs, if requested at least one week in advance.

CONTENT AND ENDORSEMENT: MISSION/VISION: We deliver high-quality public education for all ages.

A vital component of Howard County’s renowned education system, we deliver excellence in education, advancing the economy and enhancing quality of life.

2

FALL 2020

The content of HCLS publications, classes, and events does not necessarily reflect the views held by HCLS, nor does mention of companies or organizations imply endorsement.

PHOTO/VIDEO RELEASE STATEMENT: By attending HCLS, or HCLS co-sponsored, classes or events, at any location, the attendee agrees that: HCLS shall have the unrestricted right and license to use his or her image, likeness, name, voice, comment, or other proprietary or public rights, and that of any minor accompanying attendee, in any broadcast, telecast, photograph, video, audio sound, audiovisual, and/or other recording taken in connection with the class, event, or other transmission, distribution, public performance, or reproduction, in whole or in part, of the class or event for all purposes, worldwide, in perpetuity, and in any and all media now or hereafter known, without compensation, HCLS is the exclusive owner of all copyrights and other proprietary rights. The rights granted herein to HCLS are assignable.

Howard County Library Stands Against Racism “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.”

— Desmond Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town and Nobel Peace Laureate

At Howard County Library System, we are committed to dismantling those systems and creating a more equitable and just society for all people. We are working internally and externally to educate ourselves and others and, ultimately, to act.

Internally, we have begun a series of REAL (Racial Equity at the Library) Conversations with staff that begin with pre-assigned work (e.g., articles, videos). Staff share their experiences as they are comfortable to deepen relationships and build trust. Through HCLS U, we offer professional development classes and trainings around such topics as racial equity, diversity, institutional racism, and identity. Our leadership team will participate in the Racial Equity Institute’s Groundwater racial equity training offered through the Local Children’s Board, and our Human Resource department is examining recruiting and hiring practices to ensure our staff reflects our community.

Externally, we created an online set of resources to begin or continue your journey. The main page, hclibrary.org/ libraries-stand-against-racism/getting-started, includes links to books, articles, reports, podcasts, movies, and

(virtual)

music, as well as links to topical pages (e.g., criminal justice system, health care disparities, housing discrimination, parenting resources). In addition, we are planning speakers and activities, and we are partnering with organizations who are also focused on racial equity.

This work is a journey that cannot be delayed. We understand that everyone is at different points of understanding and action on their individual paths.

We are making a multi-year commitment to this work, and we promise to produce actionable steps and transparency in the process.

Learning of one another, our shared history, and the peaceful steps we can all take is essential to reaching this goal. HCLS is one of more than 160 North American public library systems that have shown their strong commitment to ending structural racism by signing the Urban Libraries Council’s Statement on Race and Social Equity, which asserts that, “libraries can help achieve true and sustained equity through an intentional, systemic and transformative library-community partnership.”

We invite you to join us in committing to and engaging in an educational pursuit for justice.

UPCOMING EVENTS - DETAILS ONLINE Local Organizations for Racial Equity, Part 1 Thu Oct 22 7 - 8:30 pm Racial Inequity and Action in Maryland Tue Nov 17 7 - 8:30 pm

Saturday, Oct 17 6 - 8 pm

anti-racism & the library

Prior to George Floyd’s murder sparking protests around the country and around the world, HCLS had begun a journey toward equity and racial justice. Unfortunately, what happened in Minneapolis was not new. Frustrations rooted in centuries of structural racism and trauma have erupted time after time, decade after decade, as persons of color, especially Black people, suffer due to racism, injustices, and systemic inequities in housing policies, health care, education, policing and the criminal justice system, and employment.

sponsored by Howard Hughes Corporation save the date! Join us for a virtual community dinner and discussion, featuring an inspiring talk by legendary Blues musician and author Daryl Davis who convinced members of the Ku Klux Klan to leave the organization, through intimate conversations and building relationships. Learn how the power of dialogue can lead to substantive

change, then connect with new friends as we discuss issues facing our community along with entertainment throughout the evening.

Pick up dinner from one of our local restaurant partners or make your own and meet us at the Longest (Virtual) Table.

Details at hclibrary.org.

hclibrary.org

3

FREDRIK BACKMAN Register at hclibrary.org > classes & events to receive a Zoom link.

Backman discusses his newest book, Anxious People. This poignant comedy tells the story of a crime that never took place, a bank robber who disppears into thin air, and eight extremely anxious strangers who find they have more in common than they ever imagined.

mee t the authors

Rich with Backman's "pitch-perfect dialogue and an uparalleled understanding of human nature," according to Shelf Awareness, Anxious People's whimsical plot serves up unforgettable insights into the human condition and a gentle reminder to be compassionate to all the anxious people we encounter every day.

Backman is the New York Times bestelling author of A Man Called Ove, My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry, BrittMarie was Here, among other titles. He lives in Stockholm with his wife and two children. Signed copies of Anxious People are available for online pre-order through Curious Iguana.

Thu

Sep 10

5 pm

Cosponsored by Maryland Humanities, Frederick County Public Library, Curious Iguana, and the Weinberg Center for the Performing Arts

MEET THE TEEN AUTHORS ONLINE ROSENBERG & SHANG and FARUQI & SHOVAN For ages 8-14. Register at hclibrary.org > classes & events to receive a link.

Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan, authors of A Place at the Table, and Madelyn Rosenberg and Wendy Shang, authors of Not Your AllAmerican Girl, read from their new books and discuss their characters and the challenges they face. They talk about what it's like to collaborate on a novel. More information about the authors available online.

Books available for purchase from Books With A Past or email info@bookswithapast.com. Signed book plates with the authors' signatures provided with each purchased book.

Sat 4

SUMMER 2020

Oct 10

1 - 2 pm

Learn Anytime Though we have temporarily paused in-person classes, HCLS instructors are still hard at work to provide fun, inspiring, and educational experiences. From author events for adults to baby games and pre-school parades, there is something for everyone on our playlists.

Check out the HCLS YouTube Channel for great ondemand recorded classes with some of your favorite HCLS instructors. Our fantastic team has created a full catalogue of on-demand classes for you to enjoy, anytime, on YouTube! You will recognize some familiar friendly faces as our Instructors host classes for all ages, and all abilities.

DEAR MAMA Dear Mama depicts pregnancy and motherhood through the eyes of emerging artists of African descent.

A group thematic exhibit, it looks to create emotional resonance for the viewer, as well as understanding of the health disparities impacting women of color. Join us for a day of dialogue and healing as we discuss the physical and emotional health of Black mothers and mothers to be.

Sat

Oct 24

10 am - 2 pm

Some highlights include:

SONGWRITING WORKSHOP FOR VETERANS

•

ABC Bike Check-Ups

•

A Special Conversation with Ron Charles, Washington Post Literary Reviewer

•

Baby Games!

•

Write It Wednesday Writing Prompts

Veteran, award-winning songwriter, and author Ron Capps leads this six-week, online songwriting workshop series for veterans.

It offers basic music theory for songwriters, song structure, lyric structures, as well as tips on public performances and recording. You do not need to play an instrument to participate; veterans interested in writing song lyric welcome. Plan to attend all six of the workshop sessions.

•

DIY Upcycled T-Shirt Tote Bags

•

Pen and Ink Shading Techniques

•

Family Time Videos

New content is added weekly, so subscribe to the HCLS YouTube channel to get updates on new on-demand videos as they are released.

Many book discussion groups have made the transition online. Join any of the groups, which cover a wide range of genres and literary tastes, for a discussion facilitated

by HCLS staff. All current information on titles and registration can be found at hclbrary.org. For questions, please call or email askHCLS@hclibrary.org.

BOOKS ON TAP 1st Wednesdays; 6 - 7 pm

ECLECTIC EVENINGS 2nd Tuesdays; 7 - 8 pm

ELKS EXCELLENT READS 2nd Tuesdays; 12:30 - 1:30 pm

GOOD READS Mondays; 7 - 8 pm

GLOBAL READS 1st Mondays; 7 - 8 pm

AN INCONVENIENT BOOK CLUB (Meets quarterly) Thursday; 7 - 8 pm

IN OTHER WORLDS 4th Wednesdays, 7 - 8 pm

For veterans only.

Capps is a graduate of songwriting and music production programs at Berklee College of Music. Songwriters and music producers from Nashville and Austin will also take part in the workshops.

Tuesdays Sep 22 & 29; Oct 6, 23, 20, 27 7 - 8:30 pm In partnership with Veterans Writing Project Sponosred by M&T Bank

read&discuss MORNING BOOKS WITH COFFEE Fridays; 10 - 11 am Watch a movie via Kanopy then discuss.

MYSTERY 2nd Wednesdays; 7 - 8:30 pm

NONFICTION 3rd Wednesdays; 7 - 8:30 pm

a d u lt o n l i n e c l a s s e s

artist credit: Kamilah House

NONFICTION ADDICTION 3rd Thursdays, 7 - 8 pm

NOONTIME BOOKS 3rd Thursdays; 12 - 1 pm

SPEAKEASY BOOK DISCUSSION 4th Wednesdays; 6 - 7 pm

STORIES OF THE WORLD 1st Mondays; 7 - 8:30 pm

READ.THINK.TALK. Mondays; 7 - 8 pm

ROMANTIC READS (NEW!) 4th Wednesdays, 7 - 8 pm

THE THURSDAY NEXT BOOK CLUB 2nd Thursdays; 7 - 8 pm

hclibrary.org

5

projec t literacy

Earn a High School Diploma

"Ultimately, our goal is to open

Project Literacy, HCLS' adult education initiative, provides instruction for the National External Diploma Program (NEDP), a flexible, self-directed program for adults to earn a high school diploma.

doors to financial independence, self-

With the help of Project Literacy, tutors help improve your skills in reading, math, and writing to meet the entry requirements.

With personal support from a tutor, work your way through eight life skills-based assessment packets. Upon completion of a Maryland High School Diploma, putting you in a better position for a job or to enter college or a certification program.

Improve Your English Skills Project Literacy also offers English classes in a supportive environment for English Language Learners of all levels. Learn how to read, write, pronounce, and have conversations in English.

Become a U.S. Citizen Additionally, Project Literacy can help you with requirements to become a U.S. citizen. Take advantage of workforce preparation classes to build vocabulary, learn soft skills, explore career pathways, and promote cultural awareness.

Classes are offered online daily for a wide range of levels of fluency in English. They

sufficiency, and thriving families.”

— Tonya Aikens, HCLS President & CEO

include English Conversation, American English Pronunciation, Reading, Writing & Grammar, English for Life & Work, and U.S. Citizenship.

If you are interested, contact Emma Ostendorp via email at prolit@hclibrary.org or call 410.313.7900.

Career Pathways for Immigrants The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded a National Leadership Grant for Libraries to Howard County Library System (HCLS). This planning grant for $100,000 will fund Career Pathways for Immigrants*, a new initiative by HCLS’ Project Literacy program which seeks, in part, to address the more specialized workforce development needs of immigrants who have more work skills and training than traditional Project Literacy students.

Career Pathways for Immigrants establishes practices for libraries to strengthen and contextualize English proficiency for work and career pathways so immigrants can achieve better job opportunities that match their professional and educational backgrounds. The success of this program will not only affect the economic selfsufficiency of grant participants, but also multiple generations of Americans. *grant number LG-246262-OLS-20

6

SUMMER 2020

Job Search & Career Change Are you one of the many job seekers looking for a new position right now, or do you know someone who is?

HCLS can help with free and easy-to-use online tools.

For résumé and cover letter templates, check out AtoZ Databases. AtoZ offers six résumé templates as well as examples of each type. It also has several cover letter templates for interns and ads that request salary expectations. AtoZ Databases also allows job seekers search for company profiles of businesses located within Howard County. Do an advanced search in the “Find a Business” section to filter for specific industries, women-owned organizations, and non-profits.

You can research a career change with HCLS’ online tools. Testing & Education Reference Center includes the PathwayU Career Assessment, which asks a brief series of questions so that you can see the many career paths that match with your unique personality and values.

You can explore specific fields, including typical job descriptions, titles, and salary ranges.

Additionally, job seekers can study for vocational exams with practice tests in the Career Preparation Center in LearningExpress Library. Some of the many practice exams include air traffic controller, dental assistant, radiography, postal worker, cosmetology, culinary arts, electrician, plumber, paramedic, firefighter, and real estate broker.

for teens

Ages 14-18. For high school & Howard Community College students getting ready to embark on a career or college. Register at hclibrary. org to receive a link .

Bruce Goldfarb is an award-winning writer whose work has appeared in the Baltimore Sun, Washington Post, USA Today, and other publications. Bruce served as executive assistant to the Chief Medical Examiner, where he is public information officer and curator of the Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death. His first book of popular nonfiction is 18 Tiny Deaths: The Untold Story of Frances Glessner Lee and the Invention of Modern Forensics.

Hear from Bruce Goldfarb and award winning authors Jerdine Nolen and Laura Shovan. These local authors and writers share their path to English-related careers. Learn what they studied in college and outside of college, and what lead them to the job they have today.

Jerdine Nolen was born in Mississippi and raised in Chicago. She currently lives in Maryland and teaches at a Howard County high school. An award-winning author, her most recent work, Freedom Bird: A Tale of Hope and Courage, is a companion book to Big Jabe and Thunder Rose.

Live! Virtual CAREER PATHS: AUTHORS, WRITER & BEYOND

Chat with each author to ask them questions and learn about their career path and current specialty. Consider different English-related jobs or discover something you might be interested in pursuing after high school or college.

Wed

Sep 30

7 – 8:30 pm

Laura Shovan’s debut middle-grade novel, The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary, was a NCTE 2017 Notable Verse Novel, a Bank Street College of Education Best Children’s Book of the year, and won a Cybils Award for poetry. She lives with her family in Maryland, where she is a longtime poet-in-the-schools for the Maryland State Arts Council.

hclibrary.org

jobs & careers

All you need to get started is your HCLS card. Go to our research page, then select “Job Application Assistance". Log in with your library card number and PIN (the last 4 digits of your phone number). Some tools require you to create an account with your email address and a password, which is necessary to save résumés, assessment scores, and practice test progress.

Another great resource is Testing & Education Reference Center by Gale. This tool includes a wizard called the VisualCV Resume Creator, which allows you to import résumé text or other prewritten text that you can edit. In VisualCV, you can create a website to showcase your portfolio. In addition, you can create shareable links to your application materials.

7

central Central Branch 10375 Little Patuxent Parkway Columbia, MD 21044

410.313.7800

All classes for all ages held online, both with HCLS instructors and other presenters.

Visit hclibrary.org > classes & events for the schedule and to register.

Art Education Collection

The collection of more than 400 items comes in a variety of sizes, contains diverse visual styles and themes, and features artists such as Frida Kahlo, Georgia O’Keefe, Ernie Barnes, Charles Bibbs, Paul Cezanne, Mark Rothko, and Pablo Picasso.

First Blooms by Joan Lok

Featured within the collection is Images of Howard County by the late Columbia resident and photographer Donald Reichle. An avid photographer of historic buildings and structures around Maryland, Reichle documented historic buildings throughout Howard County including a number of buildings along Main Street Ellicott City. Reichle generously donated his Images of Howard County to HCLS in 2012.

The framed artwork is packaged in protective, easy to transport bags. The collection is only available at HCLS Central Branch, and artwork may only be returned to that branch (not to the book drop).

Strong Men by Charles Bibbs

central branch

The Art Education Collection is integral to HCLS’ mission to promote art and cultural education for all, and to create greater access and exposure to art within the community. Designed to foster a learning environment that both inspires and supports aspirant, amateur and professional artists, the collection includes framed artwork (prints and photographs) available for borrowing. Each artwork is accompanied by information about the artist, the piece, and tools to inspire conversation.

8

FALL 2020

Ground Swell by Edward Hopper

meet jereme scot t adult art curriculum specialist Title and branch: Adult Art Curriculum Specialist, Administrative Branch

How long have you been with HCLS? for about a year

What excites you the most about your work and/or HCLS as a whole?

I'm most excited about getting to teach multiple art forms and arrange a curriculum that helps to advance the arts locally. I also like that anyone can take my classes for free.

How are you involved in the community?

What’s an unusual fact about you?

I played baseball in college. I went Saint Joseph's University and played center field and left field.

Favorite sport and/or sports team?

Baseball, Orioles, golf

What was your first job?

Merriweather Post Pavilion, Crowd Control

Do you have a pet?

My dog's name is Koda, we have no clue what she is. She's a rescue.

Favorite time of year?

Autumn is my favorite season because of the nostalgia.

It reminds me of going back to school, football, leaves changing and Halloween. Also Fall has the best fashion. With the cool weather I get to pull out my jackets, boots, crewneck sweatshirts, and layer my clothes. Lastly, fall is the best time to play golf.

SPANISH VASE Spanish vase is a mixed oil-acrylic painting that I completed during the quarantine as a thank-you gift for a friend in Florida who had hosted me in February. Another friend had visited while I was there bringing a bouquet of white irises (orchids?) that we placed in a Sevillian vase. – Betsy

Created While Isolated As part of our COVID pandemic response, HCLS saw an opportunity to unite the community through collaborative creative practice. Our collaborative community creativity journal, Created While Isolated (createdwhileisolated.com), launched in April.

Created While Isolated is a document of the thoughts, feelings, and activities of our community during the pandemic. As we spend more time in our homes under stressful circumstances, many of us channel that stress into creative practice, including painting, writing, gardening...and baking!

Currently, nearly 100 Howard County residents have shared their artwork, creative writing, poetry, baking adventures, or other projects, or responded to our writing prompts. We are still accepting submissions.

a r t e d u c at i o n

I'm a resident artist at the Howard County Arts Council, I'm an adjunct professor at Howard Community College, and I recently completed a mural at Long Reach High School. I used to have a shop on Main Sreet in Historic Ellicott City until the floods, and I coached baseball for the Western Howard County Renegades until 2019.

We invite anyone ages 14+ to share your artwork, stories, photographs, videos and writing.

Show us what you have made and tell the story behind it, or tell a story about how the pandemic has impacted you. What has this moment in time inspired you to do?

How have things changed?

We also invite you to spend some time exploring the projects and writing featured on Created While Isolated. You may find some inspiration, some familiar feelings, and maybe recognize something created by a neighbor or friend!

hclibrary.org

9 9

east columbia East Columbia Branch 6600 Cradlerock Way Columbia, MD 21045

All classes for all ages held online, both with HCLS instructors and other presenters.

Visit hclibrary.org > classes & events for the schedule and to register.

410.313.7700

e a s t co lu m b i a b r a n c h

HiTech Virtual STEAM Carnival Coming in October, this year's carnival combines interactive STEAM classes and carnival activities into a fun virtual experience. Students register for classes, divided into tracks based on grade and interest, then pick up their Carnival in a Bag, via contactless pickup. Bags contain the materials needed for students, individually and with a team, to create carnival games and activities while also learning about science, technology, engineering, art, and math. More information to come at hclibrary.org. (Photos from the 2019 Carnival.)

Sponsored by the Community Foundation of Howard County

H i Tech

Visit hclibrary.org/hitech-events for a calendar of upcoming labs and other classes.

HCLS' STEAM initiative, HiTech teaches science, technology, engineering, and math to middle and high school students.

10

FALL 2020

HELPING IN

just and equitable community. We have been moved by the incredible wave of local volunteering, organizing and donations, alongside the continued, dedicated service of government and nonprofit employees, all at a time of increased risk. We deeply appreciate everyone who is stepping into leadership and helping when it is so sorely needed. We also know there are many unmet needs, and more to come. We encourage you, if you are able and not yet involved, to find a way to help today.

Howard County Library System has been part of this work to support our community.

We work to help people directly. We hosted food pantries by the Indian Origin Network of Howard County and the Indian Cultural Association that distributed tens of thousands of pounds of food. We worked with the Local Children’s Board and HCPSS’ Title 1 office to get resource guides to families. Staff members offered research and other assistance to local service efforts.

•

We lent sewing machines from our DIY collection (p. 13) to a local company sewing masks for first responders and health care professionals.

•

We provide information and increased communication. We designed a set of Community During Covid-19 web pages, an online directory of community resources, ways to help, information for parents and children, and links to local information and updates. We produced print resource guides, translated with the assistance of the Foreign Information and Referral Network. (See

OUR COUNTY This pandemic has dramatically increased need in our community, country, and world. Hunger, unemployment, and housing instability have surged, with deeply concerning impacts on mental health and child welfare. This is happening here: as of the end of July, 42,329 Howard County residents have filed for unemployment since March 1. This is 23.92 percent of the county’s labor force. While some have returned to work, many have not.

Because of centuries of history and policy, the impact of Covid-19 is not felt equally. In our country, people of color are getting Covid-19 and experiencing hunger and other serious difficulties at higher rates.

Amid all this pain and difficulty of this time, local people have asserted that even during a pandemic we must support each other, serve each other, and strive for a more

hclibrary.org/community-education/covid-19information). We gather data to track local social needs for the Howard County Community Organizations Active in Disaster. We also launched a new weekly newsletter, HiLights, a blog (p. 18), and expanded AskHCLS, a chat, email, and phone assistance portal.

IMPORTANT ELECTION DATES presidential general

•

We support the educational needs of the community. We launched spring and summer reading programs, started a collaborative creativity journal (p. 9), and pivoted to virtual classes and video tutorials. We significantly expanded our STEM instruction, and expanded access to our instructors through a partnership with Oakland Mills Online (oaklandmillsonline.com).

•

We started a Libraries Stand Against Racism directory of resources about anti-racism and racial equity (p.3). We are increasing programming and collaboration in this space.

Tuesday November 3, 2020 Polling places open 7 am - 8 pm

early voting Thursday October 22 - Thursday October 29, 2020 7 am - 8 pm Bain 50+ Ctr: 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia Ridgely's Run Community Ctr: 8400 Mission Rd, Jessup Howard County Fairgrounds: 2210 Fairgrounds Rd, West

Friendship

vote - by - mail ballot

While the pandemic and its effects will be with us for a long time, we will continue to support education, community, service and positive change.

The deadlines to request a vote-by-mail ballot for the 2020 Presidential General Election are:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for updates at hclibrary.org/contact-us/.

For delivery by fax: Tuesday October 27, 2020 by 8 pm

Want to connect more? Reach out to our Community Education and Engagement Manager at katie.disalvo-thronson@hclibrary.org.

For delivery by email: Friday October 30, 2020 by 8 pm In person: Tuesday November 3, 2020 by 8 pm

communit y engagement

•

hclibrary.org

11

elkridge

All classes for all ages held online, both with HCLS instructors and other presenters.

Elkridge Branch 6540 Washington Boulevard Elkridge, MD 21075

Visit hclibrary.org > classes & events for the schedule and to register.

410.313.5077

meet lauren mcclosky elkridge branch manager Title and branch

elkridge branch

Branch Manager, Elkridge Branch

How long have you been with HCLS? 9 years

What excites you the most about your work and/or HCLS as a whole?

I love learning about our community members' aspirations, and being able to play a small role in helping achieve their goals! The absolute best thing is when someone comes back to say they've passed their master electrician exam, learned a new coding language, or to show us pictures of the bathroom they've remodeled or their family enjoying a picnic table they made with tools from our DIY Education Center. It's wonderful getting to connect with people I might not have crossed paths with otherwise.

How are you involved in the community?

Most of my community involvement is through HCLS, and outside of that you're likely to catch me in one of the many beautiful parks nearby like the Avalon area of the Patapsco Valley State Park!

What’s an unusual fact about you?

I hope to travel to all 62 National Parks and have gone to 22 so far, so still plenty more to see!

Favorite movie or show?

Fargo, Parks and Rec, and Survivor

What was your first job?

Shelver at the Miller Branch in high school

Do you have pets? What kind?

Bruce, a pit bull, and Priscilla, a senior cat, who are best friends

Favorite smell?

North coast of California

What book is on your nightstand?

Rereading a favorite — Maud Martha by Gwendolyn Brooks

12

FALL 2020

You can do it! We can help.

Borrow tools - and other equipment - for your DIY projects for FREE at the HCLS Elkridge Branch + DIY Education Center. The collection provides opportunities for learning hands-on skills, whether you are interested in gardening or fiber arts, bike repair or drywall work, fun baking implements or power tools. Check it out online!

d i y e d u c at i o n c o l l e c t i o n

Details about the collection, related classes, and books at hclibrary.org/diy.

bicycle repair | building | cake decorating | cake pans | clamps | classes | crocheting | drywall | electricity | gardening | garden tools

| handicraft | knitting | measuring instruments | power

tools | pliers | pruning | rulers | tools | sanding machines | saws | sewing

| shovels | tape measures | wrenches

hclibrary.org

13

glenwood Glenwood Branch 2350 State Route 97 Cooksville, MD 21723

All classes for all ages held online, both with HCLS instructors and other presenters.

Visit hclibrary.org > classes & events for the schedule and to register.

410.313.5577

glenwood branch

Beginning this fall, the Glenwood Branch will undergo a minor renovation to update the 21-yearold building. The project incorporates a number of ideas and requests from the community, gathered through dream sessions last year. The renovation includes: •

New STEM classroom for classes on such topics as computer programming, chemistry, and biology.

•

New multi-use classroom and meeting space, enabling HCLS instructors to teach more classes for all ages, and giving the community more space for public meetings.

•

Refreshed children and teen areas with new seating and new children’s information desk.

•

New customer service and self-service areas, enabling customers to pick up their own holds.

•

New passport office for greater confidentiality.

•

Renovated vending café area in a new central location, serving as a snack area and social space for families and friends.

The $630,000 project is anticipated to be completed by Summer 2021. Visit hclibrary.org for updates.

Fall Sep Reading 7 - Nov 29 play, create & learn hcls.readsquared.com Track your reading, play fun educational mini-games, and find missions full of activities. Discover HCLS eResources along the way. Enroll in the appropriate age category (birth - 10 or 11 - 17) then earn points and unlock badges! A new mission added every Monday. Activities may be adjusted as needed.

14

FALL 2020

adult reading challenge hcls.readsquared.com When there's a chill in the air, there's nothing better than curling up with a good book! Join our Adult Fall Reading Challenge for a list of intriguing, thought-provoking, and fun reading challenges. New challenges added weekly.

back to ( virtual ) school HCLS offers a wide variety of digital tools in all subjects for students at every grade level. All Howard County Public School students can access these materials with their A+ account, via Canvas.

Learn a Language Children can learn a new language with fun and interactive eResources from HCLS. Little ones up to first grade can use Little Pim to watch brief video vocabulary lessons in ten popular languages.

For tweens and teens, Mango offers fun, conversational lessons in more than 70 different languages. Download the free Mango mobile app for quick language lessons on the go when walking the dog, washing the car, or doing other chores.

Literacy, Reading, and eBooks Get instant access to eBooks at all reading levels with the TumbleBooks products.

Grades K to 3 can watch the animated narration and read along in TumbleBook Library. Grades 3 to 8 can find early reader chapter books, children’s classics, online graphic novels, nonfiction, audiobooks, and more in TumbleBookCloud Junior.

Grades 8 to 12 can find graphic novels, enhanced novels, eBooks, and classic literature, such as The Odyssey, Don Quixote, Animal Farm, and Shakespeare plays, in TeenBookCloud. The best part is that there are never any holds or waiting lists in TumbleBooks!

Practice Tests This year in particular it’s more important than ever to make sure that students are prepared for standardized college exams like the PSAT, the SAT, and the ACT, as well as AP exams.

Ace those tests with study guides and practice exams in LearningExpress Library and Testing & Education Reference Center by Gale. With an HCLS card and a valid email address, high school students can create an account that allows them to save their practice test scores and track their learning progress leading up to the big exams.

Additionally, LearningExpress Library includes eBooks on writing college admissions essays, and Testing & Education Reference Center offers a college and scholarship search tool.

For all of these (and more!) online resources for students, visit bit.ly/hclsstudents.

online learning

Elementary school-aged students can use Muzzy, a popular program developed by the BBC, to immerse themselves in stories, songs, and educational games in nine different languages, including Korean.

Battle of the Books This academic competition for fifth grade students takes place virtually next spring.

Visit hclibrary.org/battle-of-the-books for information.

See the back cover for an opportunity to support this great event. hclibrary.org

15 15

miller Charles E. Miller Branch 9421 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042

All classes for all ages held online, both with HCLS instructors and other presenters.

Visit hclibrary.org > classes & events for the schedule and to register.

410.313.1950

Red at the Bone

by Jacqueline Woodson For the ancestors, a long long line of you bending and twisting

Other recommended fiction titles featuring or written by African American authors: Conjure Women by Afia Atakora Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi The City We Became by N. K. Jemisin Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones Binti by Nnedi Okorafor Beloved by Toni Morrison

miller branch

Bending and twisting.

Memory has a way of blurring the lines between fantasy and reality, making it hard to decipher the truth. It is joyous, painful, and strange all at the same time. Jacqueline Woodson hits at each of those emotions in her latest novel Red at the Bone. She opens her novel at a coming-of-age party for 16-year-old Melody, taking place in her grandparents’ Brooklyn brownstone. Her custom-made dress, full of symbolism and pride – fit for a blossoming woman, was originally meant for her mother, Iris, 16 years earlier. From this fact spirals a series of memories, told from the perspectives of Melody, her parents, and her grandparents at different points in their interesting lives.

Read the rest of the review by Miller Branch Instructor and Research Specialist Claudia J. at chapterchats.org

Check out the always available audio: anti-racism reading list.

16 16

FALL 2020

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead Another Brooklyn by Jacqueline Woodson

Monarch Waystation at the Enchanted Garden Howard County Library System participates in a network of outdoor venues that feature Monarch Waystations. The new Monarch Waystation Trail offers a fun, familyfriendly way to discover the beauty of the butterflies, the benefits of native plants and the locations in our community where monarchs flourish.

Certified by Monarch Watch as official Monarch Waystations, nine organizations in Howard County feature habitats beneficial to butterflies, in both larval and adult stages.

At Howard County Library System, classes educate students and families about the monarch life cycle, habitat, and current plight. Loss of habitat, increased use of herbicides, and climate change are all factors in a diminishing monarch population.

enchanted garden

How to Save the Monarch Every backyard can become a nurturing habitat for monarchs.

Plant native milkweed and other nectar-rich plants to create and support healthy habitats for the monarchs.

To learn more about monarchs and how to plant a butterfly garden, visit MonarchWatch.org.

hclibrary.org

17 17

savage Savage Branch 9525 Durness Lane Laurel, MD 20723

All classes for all ages held online, both with HCLS instructors and other presenters.

Visit hclibrary.org > classes & events for the schedule and to register.

410.313.0760

Chapter Chats HCLS launched a blog as part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It's full of reviews of a variety of genres and types of books, information about electronic resources, and news and events.

Savage Branch has many staff members who contribute to the blog, so visit often for engaging reads for kids, teens, and adults recommended by your favorite staff!

s ava g e b r a n c h

Here's an example from chapterchats.org

Rainbow Reads for Kids I hope these titles help to introduce or continue the conversation about the LGBTQ+ community and all the reasons they should celebrate and be celebrated this month and always. Books that show LGBTQ+ characters in everyday settings diversify your reading collection while teaching compassion and love.

Maiden & Princess by Daniel Haack is a modern fairy tale about a strong and brave maiden invited to attend the Prince’s royal ball. She isn’t terribly excited about attending, but with a little nudging from her mother, she decides to go. Find the rest of the review on the blog.

We Love Someone We Sing to Them / Cuando Amamos Cantamos by Ernesto Martinez offers a heartwarming, bilingual story of a young boy who loves another boy.

He shares this with his father and together they write the young boy’s crush a traditional serenata. The lyrical prose and whimsical art made me cry with beautiful depictions of supportive family relationships, cultural traditions, and falling in love for the first time. Find the rest of the review on the blog.

I’m always drawn to stories that celebrate not fitting into a certain mold based on societal views and perceived norms. A few great examples include: Red: A Crayon’s Story by Michael Hall tells about a crayon who was labeled incorrectly at the factory and so is mistaken for the wrong color. This label confuses the crayon in question as he clearly draws every picture in blue.

18

FALL 2020

Many other crayons try to help him be red, but no matter how creative a suggestion, it doesn’t work. Find the rest of the review on the blog.

Neither by Airlie Anderson takes places in the land of This and That, where the only two things that exist are blue bunnies and yellow birds. What happens when a green egg hatches revealing a new friend who isn’t quite a bunny or a bird?

Find the rest of the review on the blog.

Worm Loves Worm by J.J. Austrian features two worms who are in love and excited to get married. As they plan the wedding, all the other bugs and insects in town are ready to help and give their opinions. They offer endless suggestions based on tradition. Who will wear the dress? What about the tux? Find the rest of the review on the blog.

I certainly wish more books like this were around when I was a kid, but I’m thankful to report that some of the mentioned books have helped me, as an adult, solidify layers of my own queerness. I’m learning every day how to embrace who I am and what it means to be me. I see myself in these books, and that is invaluable. There is so much joy to be found in being true to oneself, which is always something worth celebrating.

Laci is a Children’s Instructor and Research Specialist at HCLS, who contributes occasional posts. They love a wide variety of music, spending time in the garden, Halloween, cats, and crafting.

You can access all these resources at hclibrary.org/kindergarten-readiness BookFlix – Stories for Children BookFLIX pairs fiction video books with nonfiction Scholastic eBooks to build a love of reading, while reinforcing necessary skills.

TumbleBook Library TumbleBooks are interactive picture books that children can read or have read to them. Click on the blue “Story Books” tab at the top. No wait lists.

Kanopy Kids (ages 2 to 8) Enjoy quality educational content like Sesame Street, Arthur, and language-learning series for young children.

Free websites include:

OverDrive’s “Read Along with Me” collection Borrow up to six eBooks at a time. Read these to a child, or turn on audio narration and watch as each word is highlighted while spoken aloud.

PebbleGo Designed for PreK through third grade students, PebbleGo features built-in reading and research tools expertly leveled for new readers. Audio supports navigation, and articles include narrated text, highlighting, audio, and video. Topics include Animals, Science, Biographies, and Social Studies.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten!

“Caring for Each Other” initiative by Sesame Street Featuring favorite Sesame Street characters, this site includes eBooks, tips for talking with your kids, videos to watch and learn together, and ideas for playing and learning.

International Children’s Digital Librar y Provides access to international children’s literature for ages 3-5, with books available online in 55 languages.

Maryland Day by Day Family Literacy Activity Calendar This downloadable monthly calendar features daily instructions for a fun learning activity a book list of suggested titles to read with your child.

Storyline Online The Screen Actors Guild Foundation records well-known actors reading children’s books and makes graphically dynamic videos.

ready for kindergar ten

Kindergarten, Here We Come!

Unite for Literacy Provides free digital access to picture books narrated in many languages aimed at Grades PreK to 2.

Build memories and foster a lifelong love of reading. Reading just one book a day for three years or three books a day for one year equals 1,095 books!

Wide Open School Powered by Common Sense Media (grades preK to 12), this free collection is one of the best online learning experiences for kids. Find resources from organizations such as DuoLingo, Flocabulary, GoNoodle, Noggin, ChopChop Family, ABCya!, and more grouped into practical categories such as daily schedule, emotional well-being, and life skills.

hclibrary.org

19

HOWARD COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM ADMINISTRATIVE BRANCH 9411 FREDERICK ROAD ELLICOTT CITY, MD 21042

NONPROFIT ORG U.S.

P

POSTAGE

A

I

PERMIT NO. 18

Friends Make It Happen!

iii

FRIENDS & FOUNDATION

of HOWARD COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM

We need your help as HCLS prepares for the 2021 event. Friends & Foundation of HCLS support for this event is vital, and your donations will support the purchase of books for each team that registers.

Please consider a donation to Friends & Foundation and support Battle of the Books 2021. Whether held in-person or virtually, the Battle must go on!

Battle of the Books is a beloved event that nearly 1,500 students take part in each year — it has become a rite of passage for many fifth graders. Donations to the Friends & Foundation of HCLS support the purchase of the books that more than 300 teams read to prepare for this educational competition.

Visit the new Friends & Foundation website: friendshcls.org for more information and to donate for this event that demonstrates just how fun reading can be!

The pandemic forced closing schools and HCLS only weeks before the big 2020 ‘battles’ were to be held at six high school gyms. The enthusiasm of children who had formed teams last fall, dreamed up creative names and costumes, and read all kinds of books together was undaunted.

HCLS responded to this passion for reading and figured out a way to run Battle of the Books virtually. With 147 teams participating in a successful virtual battle, students shared photos of their teams, like Dunkin’ in Books above. Sponsors supported the cost of nearly 5,000 books provided to teams, and HCLS created a video that guided teams on how to conduct virtual battles from home.

The Library is grateful for these community organizations and donors that joined the Friends in sponsoring Battle of the Books: presenting sponsor Josephine Scheffenacker Education Trust, M&T Bank, Howard County Public School System, Rotary Club of Columbia Patuxent, and Yolanda and Francis Bruno Family Fund.

20

FALL 2020

D

COLUMBIA, MD

Postmaster: Please deliver by SEP 1, 2020.

How you can help: $25

Purchases 1 set of books for a child

$50

Purchases 1 set of books for a child and a set for a team coach

$100

Purchases 1 set of books for a team

$500 Purchases a set of books for 5 teams

Visit our new website: friendshcls.org