in the branches

E-Reader Lab

For adults. Register at bit.ly/3QZCMcs

Want to learn how to use the library’s e-book resources? We will show you how to use Libby, Cloud Library and Hoopla with a Q&A time. Bring your device and we will get you started using our e-book resources.

Thu Mar 2 1 – 2 pm East Columbia

Relax and Align with the Healing Flame Collective

For adults. Register at bit.ly/3ZNIBhc

Receive guided meditation and breath work, sound healing vibrations with various bowls, instruments, and music, and a mini seated Reiki session with the Healing Flame Collective in an informal, open setting.

Sat Mar 18 1 – 3 pm Miller

to register for classes:

• Visit hclibrary.org

• Click on the "classes & events" tab

• Type the name of the class into the search bar, or use the filters to find one of these classe or many others offered at all HCLS locations.

March Madness

by Brandon Bannister, Central Branch

March Madness historically has been known as one of the most exciting sporting events of the calendar year. Before you fill out your bracket for the men's and women's NCAA basketball tournaments, consider brushing up on your basketball bona fides with the Library. Sixty-eight teams earn spots in the men's tournament and 32 teams for the women every year. All teams compete in the three-week basketball tournament in their respective regions, vying to make it through to the Sweet Sixteen and Final Four on their way to the Championship game.

Read some terrific accounts celebrating the joy of the game from HCLS' collection. Former NBA player and ESPN analyst Jalen Rose wrote Got to Give the People What They Want to explain his experiences as a student-athlete at the University of Michigan. Rose was a part of the first college basketball team to start five freshmen in a season. Kwame Alexander's Crossover is a great book for teens who have a passion for sports and poetry. University of Tennessee coach Pat Summitt's book Sum it Up chronicles her life journey and legendary career, which resulted in eight national championships. In her memoir, Pat Summitt also shares her battles with Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.

You can also watch some of the great basketball films to get in the spirit. The classic film Hoosiers starring Gene Hackman showcases a team that battles adversity and triumphs just like all the colleges in the NCAA tournament. Love and Basketball stars Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps and tells the story of two childhood friends who share their love for each other through their basketball journey.

Just like a great novel or film, the end or destination is not the best part but the journey. When the champion is crowned at the NCAA tournament this year, hard work, determination and adversity, are important characterics that will help them succeed. It’s time for the tip-off, enjoy the games.

TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES: Visit hclibrary.org > classes & events, and use the filters to narrow your search.

Planning for your Loved One with Special Needs

For adults. Register at bit.ly/3J8pkRN

Receive solid information about the planning process for a special needs family member and the importance of preserving your loved one’s financial security and quality of life, presented by attorney Stephen R. Elville.

Wed Apr 5 10:30 am - 12 pm Elkridge

Google Gems: Google Docs

For adults. Register at bit.ly/googlegemsapril

Ever wonder how you can create a document without Microsoft Word? Do you really need a USB drive to save your documents? Join us as we explore Google Docs. Learn to create, edit, store, and share Google Docs. Be sure to have your Google (gmail) username and password to access and store your files.

Thu Apr 6 7 - 8 pm East Columbia

Classes Available 24/7 Online

HCLS' YouTube channel features on demand content covering book recommendations, resume and career building, DIY and makerspace projects, health and wellness, art tutorials, author events, and STEAM related children's classes. Subscribe to the channel, youtube.com/ howardcountylibrary, to stay informed.

Pets on Wheels

Drop in - no registration required. Therapy dog(s) from Pets on Wheels available for pets, reading, and companionship.

Sat Apr 8 1 – 2 pm East Columbia

Divisive U.S. Politics: A Comparative Analysis

For adults. Register at bit.ly/3iU68w8

Are our current politics more divisive than ever? Maybe not. There have been other periods in American history when, arguably, political differences rivaled or exceeded our current situation. Specifically addressing the 1840s through 1850s, author Stan Haynes explores whether our current times are unprecedented, or whether dysfunction in Washington is not solely a modern political phenomenon.

Tue Apr 25 7 – 8 pm Central

Discover the Howard County Living Farm Heritage Museum

For adults. Learn more at bit.ly/3CBZ667

John Frank, President of the Howard County Antique Farm Machinery Club speaks about the Howard County Living Farm Heritage Museum. Learn the history, see artifacts, and discover all the museum has to offer.

Sat Apr 29 4 – 5 pm Glenwood

Makerspace Make It Take It: Mother's Day Mugs

For teens and adults. Register at bit.ly/3img55z

Learn how to cut vinyl to make custom gifts, then design and create a personalized mug. All materials provided.

Thu May 4 6 – 8 pm Glenwood for more classes and events: Subscribe to the Library's electronic newsletter, HiLights, which delivers to your email inbox on Saturdays. Opt in at hclibrary.org > Contact Us