Source Nov/Dec 2022

Howard

Letter from the President and CEO

hclibrary.org

HOURS

MON - THU 10 am - 9 pm

FRI & SAT 10 am – 6 pm SUN 1 - 5 pm

HOLIDAYS + CLOSINGS

Veterans Day Nov 11

Thanksgiving All branches close at 5 pm Nov 23 Closed Nov 24 & 25

Winter Holiday Dec 24, 25 & 26 New Year’s Eve All branches close at 5 pm Dec 31

LOCATIONS + NUMBERS

HOURSplus 0NLINE 410.313.7890

PHONE RENEWALS 410.313.7810

CENTRAL BRANCH 410.313.7800 10375 Little Patuxent Parkway Columbia, MD 21044

EAST COLUMBIA BRANCH 410.313.7700 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 410.313.1950 9421 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042

SAVAGE BRANCH 410.313.0760 9525 Durness Lane Laurel, MD 20723

ADMINISTRATIVE BRANCH 410.313.7750 9411 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042

TTY FOR HEARING IMPAIRED Central 410.313.7883 East Columbia 410.313.7770 Elkridge 410.313.5090 Glenwood 410.313.5597 Miller 410.313.1957 Savage 410.880.5867

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Antonia B. Watts, Chair Phillip M. Dodge, Vice Chair Kelly L. Smith, Treasurer

Elizabeth Banach

Robert A. Mentz

Julie Parham

Sabina Taj

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.

source sponsored in part by Friends & Foundation of HCLS.

I am excited to share with you a few of the opportunities we have in the next two months to talk about the history of our community, and how that past has shaped our present. As we engaged in racial equity trainings and conversations, we heard a disbelief that the national level conversation of race and systemic bias could be found here in Howard County. With funding from a grant, we commissioned a local analysis, and last month we released Inequity Within: Issues of Inequity Across Communities. Authored by Sabriya Sturdivant from Morgan State University, the data shows inequities across every racial group in our community.

This report is powerful. There is no intent to be divisive in sharing powerful data on our community with our community. Instead, the report is meant to educate and encourage conversations about the data and how people in our community can work together to address existing disparities. I encourage you to read the report, available on our website and in our branches.

You may also wish to attend related upcoming talks and events. Historian Marcus Nicks presents the second and third parts of his series, Healing Through History: Reclaiming the Untold Stories of African Americans of Howard County, in November and December. Nicks explores the influences and contributions of African Americans from the earliest beginnings of Howard County up to contemporary times (p. 5).

We also celebrate Native American Heritage Month with an event featuring performances, arts and crafts, and food vendors on November 5. Later in the month, Reading Human Rights, in partnership with the Howard County Office on Human Rights & Equity, discusses There There by Tommy Orange, an enrolled member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma (p. 6).

These are just a few of the many events and resources available to you. This issue also highlights our passport services, learning activity kits, Dogs Educating and Assisting Readers, and a new feature: 5 Things. Keep reading to learn about five things the Library offers that you may not have known!

As always, we wish you and yours a safe and happy holiday season!

Tonya Aikens President & CEO

Support Friends & Foundation by purchasing a $5 keepsake at any branch, while supplies last.

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: 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: Please see hclibrary.org/about-us/photo-video-and-audio-release.

Jurisdictional Comparison of Socioeconomic Indicators

The three typically used indicators of socioeconomic status are education, income and employment. These factors impact people's health, well-being, and quality of life. Compared to Maryland overall, and select jurisdictions, residents of Howard County generally have better socioeconomic status. A greater percentage of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher and a greater median household income compared to the state and noted jurisdictions. Howard County also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state at 5.1%.

A Report from The Longest Table

by Katie DiSalvo-Thronson, Administrative Branch

Howard County Library System recently held the 6th annual Longest Table. The event is an opportunity to meet new people, share a meal, and enjoy conversation that is authentic, engaging and meaningful.

This year’s Longest Table was a first for a few reasons. Our event partner Howard Community College moved the event to a beautiful indoor setting on campus because of weather concerns.

One in four participants was younger, making this the most intergenerational Longest Table yet, thanks to sponsor support.

New Report Highlights Disparities in Howard County

Over the last two years, Howard County Library System engaged more than 600 people in racial equity training. Using national data about disparities across education, health, housing, and legal systems, the trainers found that racial inequity looks the same across systems, socioeconomic difference does not explain racial inequity, and systems contribute significantly to disparities.

Howard County Library System’s new Inequities Within: Issue of Inequity Across Communities report examines the racial equity landscape in Howard County and across the state of Maryland. The data shows disparities across education, healthcare, housing, economic, and legal systems for every racial group.

In Howard County, for example:

• Black residents are three times more likely to be denied a home loan than non-Hispanic white residents.

• Hispanic students are 5.4 times more likely than white students to skip school because they felt unsafe.

• Asian residents in the county are 1.8 times more likely to face poverty than non-Hispanic white residents.

As one of the wealthiest, healthiest, and most diverse communities in the state and the US, the belief that racial inequity does not exist here can be a hinderance to addressing those disparities.

We invite you to read the report (scan QR code), educate yourself, and join with us and others in this work. Funded by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and administered by the Maryland State Library Agency.

And, the Library’s Racial Equity Alliance members helped develop the conversation questions, invited members of their networks, and hosted many conversations – bringing new people and new perspectives to the table.

The conversation was electric and eclectic! This year's final question was, “When were you last inspired by someone or something in Howard County? Tell us about it.” Here are a few examples from your neighbors:

• People who are brave enough to speak their truth even if it’s unpopular.

• Their wife, and her desire to love others anonymously, categorically and unconditionally.

• The determination of their daughter, moving from disciplinary challenges to working for a nursing degree.

• People who are open minded to hear each other –which is true and just community.

• How many people were there to help the people of Ellicott City after the flood of 2018.

Looking for more conversation? Consider the Library’s book clubs, movie discussion events and upcoming racial equity trainings, which all provide rich opportunities to meet new people and discuss important topics. We’ll look for you there – or at Longest Table in 2023!

Getting to Know Marcus "Sankofa" Nicks

Marcus Sankofa Nicks, is an educator, researcher, and historian of African American History. He regularly facilitates conversations surrounding the African American historical experience, the topic of race and its presentday implications. He has served in the Howard County Public School System for more than 12 years, primarily supporting Black/African American students through a culturally relevant, trauma-informed approach. Since then, he has established History Heals Consulting, LLC, which uses African American history as a vehicle to aid schools, institutions, and businesses in fostering healthy and inclusive environments.

What was your first job?

After graduating from Bowie State, an Historically Black University, I became a substitute teacher. I taught in Howard, Anne Arundel and Baltimore Counties, and the educational landscape of these school systems helped give me a broad sense of how to engage students of various ages, backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses. After a year, I decided to return home to the Howard County Public School System as a full time educator.

What's your favorite type of music?

I mostly find myself listening to soft, relaxing jazz music. I enjoy various forms of jazz from soul and funk, urban to classical. Meditation music always puts me in a relaxed and peaceful state, too. I also enjoy listening to old school hip hop from the 1980s and 90s.

What's your favorite time of year?

When late summer transitions into autumn, it brings up many special memories for me. It's around the time I got married and when my daughter was born. Both my parents have birthdays around this time, and I often would be excited to return back to school. The earth tones associated with fall are beautiful. Plus, it's the beginning of basketball season.

What is a book you've read that changed how you think about a topic or your life?

A book that significantly shaped how I think about life and see the world was the Autobiography of Malcolm X, as told to Alex Haley. I remember there being so many mixed depictions about Malcolm X, so I decided to read the book for myself. I read it as a college student and remember it being more intriguing to me than any textbook. I found a

lot of resonance to my life as a young adult. The book had many themes that provoked into thinking more broadly on topics such as coming of age, trauma, racism, colorism, mental health, family dynamics, the incarceration system, Black Nationalism, peer relationships, Black history, and leadership. I found Malcolm’s X’s evolution inspiring and believe that we share similar qualities, such as the intent to educate and be studious, a work ethic, being a researcher, and using words and speech to analyze society critically.

What inspires/motivates you?

My family inspires and motivates me every day since I know that what I do builds off a generational legacy. My parents always encouraged me to pursue education. My wife and life partner has always fully supported me along my journey.

I am deeply inspired by my daughter, who pushes me to be the best version of myself possible as a father. She continues to give me a reason to leave behind a legacy for her to be proud of.

I am further inspired each day through the lessons of history and the stories of those who rose above adversity amidst seemingly insurmountable odds. Lastly, I am inspired and motivated by anyone who is passionate about their craft.

HCLS continues to offer a wide selection of classes and events online, including live and pre-recorded classes for all ages. Stay up-to-date by visiting hclibrary.org > classes & events

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

I'm generally content with a quiet space to read and study (haha), but I would love to visit the continent of Africa. Africa has given so much to the world. I would love to visit the place where scientists have said human life first began. I would also love to experience the culture of various countries throughout the continent. Africa has been such an integral aspect of my studies, and I believe traveling there directly would have such a profound impact on me and my family that it couldn’t be put into words.

more on racial equity

adult nonfiction

children & teens

adult fiction

Healing Through History Series: Reclaiming the Untold Stories of African Americans of Howard County

Nicks offers a multi-session course that takes a comprehensive and expansive look at the history of African Americans in Howard County. It covers the influences and contributions of African Americans from the earliest beginnings of Howard County up to contemporary times.

He provides historical accounts and a wide range of perspectives on the diverse experiences of African Americans.

Segregated Schooling and Education for African Americans

Mon Nov 14 6:30 - 8:30 pm Miller Branch Register at bit.ly/hclsheal2

The Establishment of Columbia, The Rouse Dream and Its Impact on African Americans Mon Dec 12 6:30 - 8:30 pm Central Branch Register at bit.ly/hclsheal3

Look for more sessions in 2023.

hclibrary.org

Native American Heritage Month CELEBRATION

Saturday, Nov 5 11 am - 3 pm

HCLS East Columbia Branch

Free! Celebrate Native American culture and resilience with performances, arts and crafts, food vendors - including Navajo tacos.

2 pm: Meet the Author Brian Lee Young plus book signing

An enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, Young grew up on the Navajo Reservation and currently lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Sponsors:

Reading Human Rights

Thu Nov 17 6:30 - 7:30 pm Savage Branch Register at bit.ly/therehcls

Reading Human Rights is a monthly book discussion hosted by the Howard County Office of Human Rights & Equity and Howard County Library System. We read books that promote cultural awareness, diversity, and equity.

In November, we read and discuss national bestseller There There by Tommy Orange. This wondrous and shattering novel follows twelve characters from Native communities: all traveling to the Big Oakland Powwow, all connected to one another in ways they may not yet realize. Hailed as an instant classic, There There is at once poignant and unflinching, utterly contemporary and truly unforgettable.

Native Expulsion & Manifest Destiny

Mon Nov 21 7 - 8 pm online Register at bit.ly/bellmanifest

This talk explores westward expansion and its impact upon Native communities.

Even though the phrase ‘manifest destiny’ was not used in print until 1845, the spirit of American expansionism that it referred to was very apparent long before the 1840s. Americans had been talking about pushing westward as if it was their manifest destiny ever since folks in Jamestown in the 1600s had started eyeing the land on which Natives were settled.

University of Maryland historian Richard Bell begins by tracking the story of Native expulsion and colonial expansion from the Revolution era through the 1850s, paying particular attention to the ways in which the West and westward expansion came to be romanticized in the American imagination.

HCLS continues to offer a wide selection of classes and events online, including live and pre-recorded classes for all ages. Stay up-to-date by visiting hclibrary.org

classes

At the Table Together

by Brandon Bannister, Central Branch

The Thanksgiving holiday is an opportunity for families to gather at the dinner table, express their love, enjoy each other's company, and give thanks for what life has to offer. On Thanksgiving Day, people watch the parade in New York, the national dog show, and football games, but the holiday feast is the main event. Many families showcase a variety of food choices from their respected region or countries.

Some families could decide to have mashed potatoes with their turkey instead of macaroni and cheese. Many people prefer collard greens to green bean casserole, or sweet potato pie over pumpkin pie. Apple, cherry, and blueberry pies also can make an appearance. Even though turkey, ham and other options can be served during Thanksgiving, plenty of plant-based or meatless options are now available for vegans and vegetarians. Many pescatarians will have seafood as one of their main entrees for their feast.

We can help you plan for Turkey Day with a wide variety of cookbooks from our collection. Fine Cooking Thanksgiving

Turkey Marionettes

Wed Nov 2 2 - 2:45 pm Glenwood Branch

Wed Nov 16 4:30 - 5:15 Miller Brach 7:00 - 7:45

Ages 7-10, 45 min. Ticket required. Tickets available at the children's desk 15 minutes before class.

Learn how the first Macy's Day Parade was started by the talented marionette man, Tony Sarg. Create a turkey marionette.

Cookbook: Recipes for Turkey and All of the Trimmings from the editors of Fine Cooking magazine will help prepare your holiday feast. With Rick Rodger's Thanksgiving 101: Celebrate America's Holiday with America's Favorite Expert, you can explore dishes and holiday tips. Preparing for a plant-based meal presents certain challenges; Vegan Holiday Cooking from Candle Cafe offers celebratory menus and recipes from New York's premier plant-based restaurants.

Being thankful for the time that you spend with your family and friends is vital. Our society has had its share of trials and tribualations, especially with the Covid-19 pandemic. We as a nation have a lot to be thankful for. So please cherish the people you love during this holiday season.

thanksgiving & food

adult fictionadult nonfiction

children & teens

staff spotlight: Lisa McCardle

Title and branch: Customer Service Specialist at Elkridge Branch

How long have you been with HCLS? 19 years

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

I was very much an introvert when I started working for the library. Now, I love talking to people and recommending materials for them to borrow. My favorite interactions are with the little ones. There is one family in particular that makes sure their two little girls always say hi to me and seek me out in the evening to let me know they are leaving.

How are you involved in the community?

At the beginning of the pandemic the shelter in my area was in desperate need of casseroles, and I was able to make several to donate. I felt good because I was helping to feed my local community.

What’s an unusual fact about you?

I love to listen to podcasts about serial killers and watch true crime shows.

Favorite sports team?

I am a passionate Ravens fan. Favorite movie or show? I love the show Life Below Zero.

What was your first job?

I worked in a day care center right after high school.

Favorite time of year? Summer

What book is currently on your nightstand? Lowcountry Summer by Dorothea Benton Frank

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would love to go to Australia or Switzerland.

What is your hidden talent? Scrapbooking, and I have several albums that I have completed.

What is a book you’ve read that changed how you think about a topic or your life?

The Winemaker’s Wife by Kristin Harmel really opened my eyes to what happened in the Champagne region of France during the Nazi occupation.

How would your colleagues describe you? Gregarious

What inspires/motivates you?

My daughter Kelsey becoming a strong and confident woman

If you could be a superhero, who would you be?

I would love to be the Invisible Man — just the thought of the of the spying, havoc, and chaos would be so much fun.

HCLS continues to offer a wide selection of classes and events online, including live and pre-recorded classes for all ages. Stay up-to-date by visiting hclibrary.org

classes

events

LAWYER IN THE LIBRARY

Thu Nov 3 12 – 2 pm Savage Branch Register at bit.ly/legalhcls

Maryland Legal Aid provides civil legal services including advice on expungement, tenant’s rights, custody, consumer debt, and public benefits. Please bring all relevant documents. Assistance is offered on a first-come, first-served basis to those eligible. For more information about Maryland Legal Aid and eligibility requirements, visit mdlab.org.

FORAGING 101

Sat Nov 12 2 – 3:30 pm Central Branch Register at bit.ly/forage101

Learn how to responsibly and safely forage! Join Kiah Gibian, lifelong forager, and founder of Our Time Community Kitchen in Baltimore and explore the historical background of foraging, methods relevant to the midAtlantic microclimate for plant identification, where to look for edible plants, how to harvest them, and how to process those foraged materials for consumption. Cap off your new knowledge by preparing and decorating a foraging journal to take home.

For more classes at the library:

• Visit hclibrary.org

• Click on the "classes & events" tab

• Use the filters on the left to select

• age range

• branch

• program type (e.g., book clubs, DIY, homework club, gardening, makerspace, STEAM)

FINANCIAL EDUCATION WEBINARS

Tuesdays; 1 - 2 pm Online

Nov 15: Rental Eviction Prevention Register at bit.ly/preventeviction1

Learn about the eviction process & causes, different types of eviction notices, impacts & ways to prevent eviction, discrimination & Fair Housing.

Dec 13: Inflation and How to deal with Rising Costs Register at bit.ly/inflationcosts

Learn about the different types of inflation and their characteristics, discuss options on how to resolve financial hardships and combat inflation, and review relevant statistics.

Have Passport? Will Travel!

BARBADOS from Zinaida Sirbegovic, East Columbia Branch

The sea has always equaled happiness for me. My childhood summers were spent by the Adriatic Sea, exploring the Dalmatian coast (Croatia), from the majestic Dubrovnik to the small towns of its many islands. The beaches were always what I liked best and miss most now that I live so far away.

I just had the opportunity to visit Barbados with its wild and dangerous east coast on the Atlantic and the tranquil Caribbean on the west. Clear water, balmy weather, and sand so fine it will not cling to you brought the childhood memories back, along with peace and tranquility to my soul.

I want to urge all of you to get your passports, and start saving for a trip of a lifetime.

AND from Angela Best, Central Branch

Passport in hand, sun, white sandy beaches and balmy sea breezes greeted me as I arrived in Barbados in April 2022. It is the most easterly island in the Caribbean Sea. Independent from the UK since 1966, Barbados maintained the Queen as Head of State until 2021. One can enjoy tasty street food in Oistins, the local Chefette fast food chain, or five-star restaurants on the seaside. The main sports include cricket, golf, horse racing, tennis, car racing, and water sports. One can also visit the Barbados Museum, and the Mount Gay Rum distillery which was established in 1703.

Passport Services at the Library

EAST COLUMBIA BRANCH

Monday – Thursday | 10 am – 7

Saturday | 10 am – 4

BRANCH

Monday – Thursday | 1 pm – 7

| 10 am – 3

WHO MAY APPLY?

An UnBELIZEable Adventure

from Kim Johanson, Glenwood Branch

This summer, I traveled to Belize for an unforgettable adventure trip. We went snorkeling at the barrier reef, ziplined through the rainforest, fed a jaguar, hiked to the top of an ancient Mayan temple, toured a cacao farm, and made our own chocolate. The highlight was exploring the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave. This cave must be experienced first-hand – as no cameras or electronic devices are allowed. Our guide led us hiking, swimming, and spelunking through an ancient Mayan cave system where we were a fingertip’s length away from pottery and skeletal remains dating from ancient Mayan rituals.

COLOMBIA

from Adrianna Sass, East Columbia Branch

I traveled early this year back to my home country of Colombia. We had planned to visit in 2020 to baptize my baby, but the pandemic kind of delayed those plans. I was finally able to go back with my husband and my two children. Colombia is a beautiful country in South America. During our trip we visited the Tatacoa Desert, the beautiful mountains of Huila and had the best coffee in the world there, went swimming in the turquoise waters of "Playa Blanca" in Cartagena, visited amazing wineries and had the best time with my family. In Colombia, the only risk is wanting to stay.

AUSTRALIA

From Marc Tolson, Miller Branch

In 2018 I renewed my passport at the East Columbia Branch for a trip to Australia planned for Spring 2020. Five years and one pandemic later, I'm finally going in January. I'll be on patrol in the outback town of Long Reach with my nephew, Officer Isiah Richardson, and snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef with his brother Elijah, the youngest ever Coral Watch Ambassador and great defender of our oceans. If I'm lucky, I'll get to see loggerhead sea turtles hatching!

To learn more about these parts of the island continent, read On Kiki's Reef by Carol Malnor, Where is the Great Barrier Reef by Nico Medina, and The Reef: a Passionate History by Iain McCalman. And watch Walkabout, Life on the Reef by PBS, and, of course, Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo

Let’s Play!

by Jean Boone, Central Branch

“When we treat children’s play as seriously as it deserves, we are helping them feel the joy that’s to be found in the creative spirit. It’s the things we play with and the people who help us play that make a great difference in our lives.” said Fred Rogers.

By definition, PLAY is FUN but that doesn’t make it unimportant. For a child’s development, it’s serious business. Play feeds a child’s imagination and creativity, and it helps them explore and discover their capabilities and their world. As it spurs brain development, play becomes a pathway for learning and creates the foundation for literacy and school readiness.

To support children and their families in growing and learning through play, we offer some incredible resources.

The TOY COLLECTION includes more than 300 wideranging, developmentally appropriate and safe items:

• Does your child love pretend play? Borrow a wooden sandwich-building set or the bilingual (English-Spanish) EnSALADa play set for some imaginative cooking!

• Is your child always on the move? Take home a parachute, trucks and other vehicles, and push and pull toys for building motor skills.

• Help your child learn their letters, numbers, shapes and colors with toys like the Counting Carrots Stacker, Rocket Shape Sorter, or Oscar the Grouch stacking cans.

• Encourage storytelling with a set of puppets like the Three Billy Goats Gruff or Peppa and George Pig, or music-making with My First Piano or the Hedgehog Accordion.

• Promote problem-solving with all kinds of puzzles, for toddlers to kindergartners.

LITERACY ACTIVITY KITS combine themed books, toys, games, and hands-on activities that are both educational and entertaining. Created for three distinct age groups, the kits also include a bilingual parent guide with ideas for how to engage your child with these materials.

For 0-4 year olds, kits focus on essential concepts with books, music, and toys:

• Numbers and Shapes

• Colors and Letters

• Bilingual English and Spanish

• Things that Go

• Barnyard Animals

For 5-7 year olds, kits contain books and problem-solving projects and games:

• The Three Little Pigs

• The Gingerbread Man

• Goldilocks and the 3 Bears

• Fun with Words

• Dive into Dolphins and Sharks

For 8-10 year olds, kits offer books, worksheets, and games that strengthen literacy skills:

• Super Spelling and Wonderful Writing

• Stretch Your Storytelling

• Pass the Poetry

• Focus on Fluency

All of these materials can be borrowed for three weeks, just like a book. Come into your nearest branch and bring home some serious fun!

HCLS STEAM Machine

The STEAM Machine is wi-fi enabled and equipped with laptops, science kits, supplies, and books. STEAM Machine Instructors look forward to cocreating memorable learning experiences with students through hands on enrichment opportunities.

For more information and to schedule a visit: hclibrary.org/steam

HCLS continues to offer a wide selection of classes and events online, including live and pre-recorded classes for all ages. Stay up-to-date by visiting hclibrary.org

classes

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. Ticket and book required.

Bring a book or borrow one of ours. Read to Fidos for Freedom's therapy dogs in a relaxing and encouraging environment while increasing oral reading skills and selfconfidence.

Mon Nov 14 7 - 8 pm Savage Branch

The Importance of Reading

by Eliana Holgate, Elkridge Branch

When was the last time you read a book to a young child? Maybe it was a title you’ve read dozens of times, and the child was even saying some of the words along with you. You might be hoping they will get excited about something different soon. Perhaps it was a book you hadn’t read before, and you enjoyed discovering it along with them. Either way, you were helping that child’s brain develop just by reading to them.

We all want our children to be successful. While there may be a range of opinions on what that looks like and which tools are most helpful to support said success, research provides a few clear answers. One of those is that reading with children, from birth onward, sets them up for academic and later life success. Numerous studies have shown that reading with children from early in life encourages language development, as well as overall brain development. Children who are read to every day during their early childhood may enter Kindergarten having been exposed to over one million more words than their peers who were never read to. This increased vocabulary sets up those from a literacy-rich home for success from the start of their school careers.

Thankfully, you can find plenty of high-quality children’s books to borrow for free at any of our HCLS branches. If you bring a young child to one of our classes, you can even get a break from being the reader! Feel free to ask any of our staff for recommendations for books to read with your children. And don’t be afraid to let little ones choose some

for themselves. For more suggested activities and materials to help children develop literacy skills, check out one of our Literacy Activity Kits. Or perhaps select a toy to check out and act out a story you’ve read or created on your own. Whatever books or materials you select, read early and often with young children to set them up for success in school and beyond.

adult fictionadult nonfiction

more for national education week children & teens

3 4

My 5 Things

1 Art Collection at Central and Glenwood Branches, with ready to hang framed prints from the masters to contemporary artists

Equity Resource Center and Collection at Central Branch, with books, movies, and music for you to borrow that offer new perspectives on the world

Literacy activity kits containing toys, books & instructions in a bag at all HCLS locations (p. 12)

Recording/podcasting studios at Glenwood and Savage Branches

STEM activity kits full of hands-on learning with microscopes, snap circuits, and more for ages 11-18) at East Columbia and Savage Branches

Visit us in person or at hclibrary.org to find out about these 5 Things and all the other wonderful resources available to you.

november is national adoption month

adult fictionadult nonfiction

children & teens

HCLS continues to offer a wide selection of classes and events online, including live and pre-recorded classes for all ages. Stay up-to-date by visiting hclibrary.org

classes

events

President & CEO Tonya Aikens shares five aspects of the library that you might not know.

Claude Monet ,

Artst's

thank you!

Our sincere thanks to the individuals, organizations, and businesses for their generous financial and in-kind donations to Howard County Library System. Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of this list of those who made contributions between July 1 - August 31, 2022. Please call 410.313.7799 to report any errors or omissions.

$5,000 DTC Partnership $1000-$4,999 Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny, LLC Henry and Nancy Yee

UP TO $1,000 Elizabeth Koza Paul Montgomery Helaine (Sue) Morss National Media Production Suellen Seigel-Weisberg United Way of Central Maryland

PRESIDENTIAL CIRCLE

($10,000+)

Yolanda and Francis Bruno Family Fund

Friends & Foundation of HCLS

Howard County Public School System

Howard Hughes Corporation M&T Bank

Josephine B. Scheffenacker Education Trust

Estate of George Rothstein

TRIBUTES

In memory of Kathleen S. Glascock: Robert Owings Glascock In memory of April Curnow, Miller Branch staff

IN KIND Clark's Elioak Farm National Aquarium in Baltimore Maryland Science Center The Maryland State Fair

Friends Make It Happen!

Libraries are the foundation of any community. Libraries connect us to the past, present, and future. In Howard County, our library branches serve as regional centers for exploration, discussion, examination, and inspiration for all ages, demographics, and interests. As an analyst, educator, and historian, I am especially grateful for the opportunities that Howard County Library System provides for us to come together in exploring our history - sharing the known, revealing the unknown, uncovering the hidden, and tackling the misunderstood. In providing opportunities to come together – we can recognize our shared values, appreciate our differences, address inequities, and move together towards a better future.

Through February, Howard County Library System is presenting a powerful five-part Healing Through History Series, Reclaiming the Untold Stories of African Americans of Howard County (p 5). Participants can use the lens of history to discover who we were, understand who we are, and define who we can be. Communities are only as strong as their willingness to learn, adapt, and grow together. Today is a good day to become a Friend and support the resources, programs, and supports that help us build a stronger community and better future for all.

— Ellen Flynn Giles, Board member, Friends & Foundation of HCLS

FRIENDS & F OUND ATION of HOWARD COUNTY LIBR ARY SYS TEM

Join the Friends: friendshcls.org