March/April 2022 source

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Howard County Library System

mar/apr 2022

In this issue: National Library Week Planning Your Garden Deaf History Month Evening in the Stacks

I Letter from the President and CEO V27 N2

source

Spring is nearly upon us, and we have so many occasions to celebrate – National Library Week, Irish Heritage Month, Deaf History Month, and National Poetry Month.

hclibrary.org

HOURS MON - THU FRI & SAT SUN

10 am - 9 pm 10 am – 6 pm 1 - 5 pm

HOLIDAYS + CLOSINGS Spring: Good Friday Spring: Easter

Apr 15 Apr 17

This year’s National Library Week theme, Connect with the Library, is so true for our community. Thank you for connecting with us – in person and online.

Whether you are bringing your child to a children’s class, participating in a book group, meeting friends to study after school, tinkering in our makerspace, visiting an exhibit, looking for books, using our computers, or engaging with our staff, we hope you find what you are looking for and leave better for the experience.

LOCATIONS + NUMBERS HOURSplus 0NLINE PHONE RENEWALS

410.313.7890 410.313.78 1 0

CENTRAL BRANCH 410.313.7800 10375 Little Patuxent Parkway Columbia, MD 21044 EAST COLUMBIA BRANCH

410.313.7700

ELKRIDGE BRANCH 6540 Washington Boulevard Elkridge, MD 21075

410.313.5077

GLENWOOD BRANCH 2350 State Route 97 Cooksville, MD 21723

410.313.5577

MILLER BRANCH 9421 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042

410.313.1950

SAVAGE BRANCH 9525 Durness Lane Laurel, MD 20723

410.313.0760

ADMINISTRATIVE BRANCH

410.313.7750

6600 Cradlerock Way Columbia, MD 21045

9411 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042

TTY FOR HEARING IMPAIRED Central East Columbia Elkridge Glenwood Miller Savage

410.3 1 3.7883 410.3 1 3.77 70 410.3 1 3.5090 410.3 1 3.5597 410.3 1 3. 1 957 410.880.5867

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Thomas K. Munns, Chair Antonia B. Watts, Vice Chair Phillip M. Dodge, Treasurer Anne R. Markus Robert A. Mentz Kelly L. Smith 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.

Partnerships are a key way that we connect and build community. Recently we joined with partners at the Howard County Health Department, Luminus, and the fire department to increase access to COVID vaccines to communities with lower rates of vaccination. Through door-to-door outreach and other engagement strategies, we met residents where they were to dispel myths and increase vaccination rates.

“Luminus is devoted to sharing knowledge with the people we serve. It is essential to ensuring they can navigate American society and succeed in American life. That is why our partnership with HCLS was so important because it broadened what we do with everything they do, creating collective impact and a healthier Howard,” said Mike Mitchell, Luminus President and Executive Director.

Throughout this issue, you will find numerous ways to connect with people who may have similar interests or provide different perspectives. The Reading Human Rights Discussion Series examines The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See in March (p. 12). This acclaimed book spans generations to tell the story of two childhood friends who find themselves on opposite sides of a war as adults, exploring themes of conflict and forgiveness.

Also in March, international spoken word artist Lady Brion leads a series of poetry slam workshops exploring social justice issues. Write and share your poems – or listen to others - at an open mic night (p. 9).

Through these events and others, connect with your community at the Library.

Together, we are stronger.

Sincerely,

Tonya Aikens President & CEO 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:

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

The theme for National

Library Week 2022 , Connect

with Your Library, promotes libraries as places to connect - to technology, to learning, and, most importantly, to each other. We invite you to connect with us and your neighbors when you attend a class or event, participate in a book discussion group, visit an exhibit, get a passport, study or conduct research, browse the collection, or simply stop by for a visit. Get inspired and collaborate with others in our new makerspace, dream up projects with the team at our DIY Center, and gain new perspectives when you read

LIBRARY ©2022 American Library Association

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Customers Connect with HCLS

by Brooke McCauley, HCLS Administrative Branch If you haven’t visited the library in awhile, you may be in for a pleasant surprise. We have something to connect with all the members of our community!

Youth can find S.T.E.A.M classes, homework clubs, and other specialty programs and classes, including entrepreneurial and community planning skills.

Geneka Young, Teen Instructor & Research Specialist, said, prior to COVID, there were often 50-60 kids in the Teen section at East Columbia Branch. “It’s a safe haven for them. They say, ‘Coach G! Let me tell you what happened.’

They keep me hip to the new lingo and trends.” she said.

Nana S., age 15, began regularly visiting ECO three years ago when he was in the sixth grade. “I’m grateful for the library,” said Nana. “At first I went for the summer programs, but then I had a lot of fun talking to staff so I started going there after school. I met some of my best friends there.”

But connection opportunities aren’t just for youth. The Longest Table is a signature event that has engaged hundreds of residents over a meal each year since it began in 2017. Educational consultant and facilitator Trent Hall, age 32, says, “I’ve attended four Longest Table events.

I’ve always been a table host, and in 2021 I had the chance to address everyone as a speaker. Each year has been different, but the happiness (of participants) has always been profound."

stories from fellow Howard Countians in the Brave Stories exhibit in our Equity Resource Center. Whether you connect with us in person or online, we look forward to seeing you.

April 3 - 9

Other residents have discovered Brave Voices/Brave Choices (BVBC), our racial equity initiative, along with the new Equity Resource Center at HCLS Central Branch that boasts exhibits and 9,000 titles.

Still others find connection through Project Literacy, which teaches English to non-English speakers and guides adults through high school diploma programs. “We have people speaking 30 different languages, representing 40 countries including Korea, Togo, Ivory Coast, China, Guinea and parts of India. This year we are seeing an uptick from the Hispanic community, who we had a hard time connecting with during covid initially. We’re seeing more students coming back,” said Emma Ostendorp, Project Literacy Manager.

HCLS is also headed out into the community, meeting residents in places they live and frequent with our colorful van. It serves as a wifi hotspot as staff connect with families of children up to age five, read stories, and teach classes outside. Families can borrow books in their neighborhoods.

Tanisa Thompson, who drives the van, explains that some communities have been a little unsure, until: “One day an instructor was wearing a sweatshirt that featured a popular Latin American children's character. Once customers saw the shirt, this was the first time we did not have to approach them first. This was a dynamic shift in customer interactions and led to our first repeating customers and instantaneous positive feedback. There has been small growth at every visit since.”

From classes, online resources, premiere events, and community engagement opportunities, HCLS continues to offer creative and meaningful connection experiences to our community.

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How does your garden grow? with the library's help, of course!

Here’s what you can look forward to:

Garden Planning

by Ann Hackeling, HCLS Miller Branch The Enchanted Garden celebrates its 10th season this coming spring, during which the garden and the gardeners have grown! There have been challenges to learn from and victories to savor. Together they position us well for our best season yet.

While the garden rests under a blanket of snow, this gardener dreams! Spring conjures up visions of colorful blooms, warm sunshine, plentiful rain, and rich soil. New garden catalogs, books, and now webinars spark grand ideas and plans. I am eager to get my hands in the soil and nurture all the plants and wildlife (not bunnies!) that create our abundant garden.

Visitors to the Enchanted Garden can expect to be wowed by the tried and true as well as something new.

Read more about gardening.

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MAR/APR 2022

• An expanded Edible Landscape that combines flowers, herbs, and vegetables lovely enough for your front yard.

• A traditional Native American garden named The Three Sisters featuring corn, beans, and squash.

• Companion planting pairings to help plants get the nutrients they need, fend off pests, attract pollinators, and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

• Container gardens showcasing vegetables, herbs, and flowers for small spaces.

• 500 pounds (fingers crossed!) of food raised for the Howard County Food Bank.

• A healthy environment that provides for people and pollinators without the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides.

Ambitious plans require many helping hands. We look forward to the return of volunteers, teens, tweens, and children to our Enchanted Garden. Stay tuned for classes and events to be offered all season long!

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.

Seed Starting Organization Made Simple at Glenwood Branch’s Makerspace

by Elana Dandeneau, HCLS Administrative Branch Avid home gardeners love the benefits of growing their own transplants from seed. A gardener can find unique heirloom selections, as well as the best varieties for individual garden conditions which will boost yields and reduce losses to pests.

The potential money savings aren’t small potatoes, either.

Use this QR Code, for a video of staff demonstrating the laser cutter. Visit the Glenwood Branch for step-by-step instructions to make plant labels.

Seed starting is also a welcome ritual of spring. After winter and detailed planning, starting seeds is a time to celebrate the return of life, light, and hope for a fruitful harvest.

Where this home gardener's seedling enterprise fails is in the organization. Copious amounts of peppers, tomatoes, herbs, greens, and flowers are started with nary a label in sight. This makes for a bit of a guessing game when it comes time to transplant seedlings outside, BUT no more!

Enter the Makerspace’s Glowforge 3D Laser Printer and Engraver! It is commonly used with materials like wood, textiles, or different kinds of plastics. This equipment is a perfect fit to make seedling labels out of wood.

At the makerspace, direction sheets are available and staff can assist. However, most projects can be completed independently.

DIY for Your Garden

by Eric Laun, HCLS Elkridge Branch I don’t want to get overly philosophical about it, but the rebirth and renewal of spring is a wonderful time of year. Observing the daily greening of nature just makes me feel happy, since that new green is my favorite color.

That said, you may look outside and see your yard, large or small, and it may look a bit drab in early spring.

Moreover, there is likely debris in your beds, garden, or yard. When I was younger, had less patience, and “better” things to do, I used to dislike yard work. However, I’ve come to embrace the relaxing nature of yard work, and perhaps the completed product. Keep in mind, there really isn’t a deadline, just pick a nice sunny day and get out there and take it on at your own pace.

The library has so many great tools to lend you at the Elkridge DIY Education Center to complete most of your outdoor jobs. Leaf and tine rakes will help you with aforementioned yard debris. We have cordless blowers, if you prefer. You can borrow numerous varieties of manual trimmers, tree limb saws, and tree pruners to shape up all those bushes and trees. We’ll even lend you an extendable (up to 14 feet) pole trimmer for those extra-high limbs. The battery powered electric hedge trimmers are just wonderful (I’ve literally “cut the cord” on the other style). We even have battery powered string trimmers, if you’d like to clear a small area, or just trim some grass or weeds. You can borrow a variety of shovels for the bushes, flowers, plants, or trees you’d like to plant, replant, or dig up.

I would invest in some garden gloves, or you may just want to literally get your hands dirty, that’s your choice. And, with so many other great tools to lend, I’d recommend you stop by, chat with us, and see what we have to offer. Happy spring!

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Irish Heritage According to President Biden and Governor Hogan, March 2022 is officially proclaimed as Irish American Heritage Month. The Maryland chapter of the Ancient Order of Hibernians invites you to explore Irish American heritage through these rich resources: Library of Congress: www.loc.gov/rr/main/irishamerican/ Smithsonian Institution: www.si.edu/spotlight/irish-american National Records and Records Administration: www.archives.gov/news/topics/irish-american-heritage

read more about irish heritage nonfiction

fiction

children and teen

Selkie Tales

by Kristen Blount, HCLS Administrative Branch I boast of wee bit of Irish heritage from my mother’s side of the family. I have always loved the folktales and mythology of the Celts, and of Ireland in particular. One of my favorites is the story of the selkies, the shapeshifting folk who transform into seals in the sea and humans on land.

There are countless tales and songs about the Selkie Wife, wherein a fisherman (most usually) falls in love with a selkie and hides her sealskin. When she finds it again, she leaves him and their children to reclaim her life in the waves. As with so many traditional Irish tales, it’s the sense of tragedy that makes it beautiful.

Selkie tales have also made their way into film and books.

Seanan McGuire’s urban fantasy series featuring October Daye include selkies as important, recurring characters.

Tanya Huff’s modern fantastical Gale Girl books are a ton of fun, and the second book in the trilogy’s plot hinges on a supposed selkie colony off the coast of Maritime Canada being threatened by oil drilling.

As for movies, probably my favorite selkie movie is The Secret of Roan Inish, which tells the story of a young girl, Fiona, and her determination to find and bring home her lost younger brother, Jamie, who is living among the seals. Song of the Sea is an animated film that tells a different version of the Selkie Wife. When lighthouse keeper Ben’s wife disappears after giving birth to their second child it leads to all sorts of family and fey drama. By the same team that made The Secret of Kells, these movies have a rich drawing style of that borrows from ancient Irish art. While animated, they aren’t necessarily just for children. Once you see selkie stories, you can find them in many places.

LIBRARY ©2022 American Library Association

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MAR/APR 2022

Tracey L. Williams, LCSW-C, attended HCLS racial equity classes and sensemaking circles in the spring of 2021. She is the new president of the African American Roundtable in Howard County and is on the planning committee for her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, chapter's 50th anniversary event, which will be held in the Equity Resource Center at Central in the fall. She says,

“I care about the community and know that a more equitable community will lead to a better

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.

Film Femme Phenoms

by Cherise Tasker, HCLS Central Branch The Oscars. The Super Bowl for film lovers and stargazers. Since the 94th Academy Awards and Women’s History Month converge this year in March, let’s highlight Oscar-winning women. The accomplishments of women in the film industry grow each year as crews’ diversity increases and acting roles encompass a broadened range of realistic characters.

Front and center for many a bibliophile is screenwriting. In 2021 with Promising Young Woman, Emerald Fennell (also known as Camilla in The Crown) became the first woman in 13 years to win for Best Original Screenplay. Fennell also produced and directed. Then travel back to 2007 when Diablo Cody won for Juno. To date, nine women have won in this category, but only five as solo writers; the other three being Sofia Coppola, Lost in Translation; Jane Campion, The Piano; and Callie Khouri, Thelma and Louise.

and Bullets over Broadway (not available) and Shelley Winters for The Diary of Anne Frank and A Patch of Blue (available through interlibrary loan). Last year’s winner was the first for a Korean actress, Youn Yuh-jung, in Minari.

Now for the star power that is Best Actress. Katherine Hepburn was nominated 12 times and won a record-setting four: Morning Glory (available through interlibrary loan), Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, The Lion in Winter, and On Golden Pond. Meryl Streep has been nominated a record-setting 17 times for Best Actress, winning twice for Sophie’s Choice (available with an HCLS library card on Kanopy) and The Iron Lady, and nominated four times for Best Supporting Actress, winning for Kramer vs. Kramer.

Frances McDormand became a triple champion in 2021 for Nomadland. She also won for Fargo and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.

Except as noted, all titles are available on DVD at HCLS.

march is women's history month nonfiction

For Best Director, 2021 also brought an Oscar to a woman, Chloé Zhao, for Nomadland. Only one other woman has won in this category, Kathryn Bigelow, for The Hurt Locker. Only seven women in total have even been nominated.

Best Costume Design boasts many female winners. Edith Head was nominated 35 times and won eight. For total Oscar nominations and victories, she is surpassed only by Walt Disney. Her winning films are The Heiress, Samson and Delilah, All About Eve, A Place in the Sun, Roman Holiday, Sabrina, Facts of Life (not available), and The Sting. For more recent winners in 2018 and 2019, check out the work of Ruth E. Carter in Black Panther and Jacqueline Durran in Little Women.

Best Supporting Actress has been won more than once by only two women: Dianne Wiest for Hannah and Her Sisters

Howard County. I have the privilege of working with people from all walks of life and I want to make sure their voices are heard. I am called to be a voice for the underrepresented.

Thank you to the Library's leaders and staff for making the library a safe, positive and progressive place for Howard County residents to thrive.”

fiction

children and teen

Little Learners: Illustrators on Parade Ages 2-5 with adult. Ticket required.

Celebrate Women's History Month by exploring the work of children's picture book illustrators.

Tuesdays, 2 - 2:45 pm Central Branch Mar 1 Vanessa Brantley-Newton Mar 8 Lois Ehlert

Weaving our Way to the Moon Ages 11 and up, with adult. Allow 20 minutes.

Sat

Mar 19

3 - 4 pm

Glenwood Branch

Learn the fascinating forgotten history of the LOLs - the Little Old Ladies of NASA's Apollo Missions - with a hands-on STEM activity that celebrates the women who "wove our way to the moon." Discover how core rope memory powered spaceflight then create a simple beaded message using binary code.

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April is National Poetry Month There’s a Poem in this Place

by Jean Boone, HCLS Central Branch Where do you look for poetry? You can find plenty of poetry in the library, no question. There is formal poetry, but also music, nursery rhymes, in art and in nature, in our stories, and in our work together. Poet Amanda Gorman reminds us with her poem.

Poems might be written or spoken; short or long, rhyming or not; a calming meditation or a clarion call to action. Or as soothing as Mary Oliver: Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, The world offers itself to your imagination Calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting – Over and over announcing your place In the family of things.

Excerpt from “Wild Geese,” Devotions: The Selected Poems of Mary Oliver

There’s a poem in this place— a poem in America a poet in every American who rewrites this nation, who tells a story worthy of being told on this minnow of an earth to breathe hope into a palimpsest of time— a poet in every American who sees that our poem penned doesn’t mean our poem’s end.

There’s a place where this poem dwells— it is here, it is now, in the yellow song of dawn’s bell where we write an American lyric we are just beginning to tell.

Excerpt from In This Place (An American Lyric) by Amanda Gorman Children’s Poetry Scavenger Hunt

No matter the style, poems carry impact in their words.

They have “the power to reach inside of you, to ignite something in you, and to change you in ways you never imagined.” (Kwame Alexander, Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets) So if you’re looking for poetry that speaks to you, or inspires you to speak - you can discover it here, especially during National Poetry Month. There ARE poems of all sorts in this place!

Record Your Own Spoken Word Performance Tue Mar 8 Thu Mar 10 Grades 6-12.

6 - 8 pm 4 - 6 pm

Savage Branch Savage Branch

Calling all teens to the Savage Branch to try out original spoken word readings. Learn how to use the A/V recording equipment and produce materials, if you want, for HoCoCast, our podcast by teens.

Meet the Batttle of the Books Author: Padma Venkatraman Tue 7 - 7:30 pm

regular hours

Central Branch

Children, ages 5 and up, can participate in self-directed activities. Try Reverso poetry (read it forwards and backwards for a different twist on the same story!); decipher silly spoonerisms by Shel Silverstein; locate the hiding haiku; add words to our Poet-tree; and find QR codes that link to animated poems. Pick up an activity booklet at the Children’s desk to get started.

Children’s Poetry Themed Book-N-Craft Tue Apr 12 4:30 - 5:15 pm Ages 6 - 8. Ticket required.

Glenwood Branch

Celebrate National Poetry Month and build book club skills by reading a picture book together, followed by a brief discussion and related activities.

Put a Poem in your Pocket After you’ve discovered some poetry at the library, write out your favorites and put them in your pocket to share on April 27, the annual “Poem in Your Pocket Day.”

Apr 26 online

Please join us for a 30-minue live Q&A with Padma Venkatraman!

Padma will be in conversation with fifth grade student moderators. Bring your questions.

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April 4-17

read more about poetry fiction

nonfiction

childrens & teens

Poetry Slam Workshops with Lady Brion Wednesdays; 7 - 8:30 pm Central Branch Ages 14 - adult. Register at bit.ly/brionhcls Find inspiration and your voice with poetry slam champion, educator, and activist Lady Brion. In a series of workshops, Lady Brion coaches you in the process of writing, performing, and putting into action personal works of poetry. Lady Brion merges the space between art and activism through themes of Black struggle, gender equality, and religion.

Mar 9 Picketed Discuss the history of social movements and the way that radical demonstrations and protests can lead to change, then create picket signs and craft a poem.

Mar 16 If These Streets Could Talk Explore a social justice issue by personifying a connected space, place, or object.

Mar 23 Open Mic Participants share poems created in one of the previous workshops. All are welcome to attend the performances.

Poetry Workshop for Veterans Wednesdays Mar 2 - Apr 6 6:30 - 8 pm Elkridge Branch & online For veterans, active duty ​military personnel, and their families. Register at bit.ly/VetPoetry This workshop allows participants to consider poetry as more than "just pretty words on a page" as you read and analyze published poems, learn the hallmarks of the craft, and come to understand the nature of poetics. Attend one or all of the sessions in six-week series.

Presented by Dario DiBattista, who is the editor of the anthology Retire the Colors: Veterans & Civilians on Iraq & Afghanistan.

Sponsored by a grant from Texas A&M University, Libraries & Veterans National Forum

Memoir Writing Workshop for Veterans Tuesdays; Mar 1 – Apr 5 Miller Branch

7 – 8:30 pm

Registration is open to veterans and active duty service members and their families. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions. Register at bit.ly/VetMemoir Memoir is the art of the “examined life.” Participants examine unique aspects of the memoir genre; practice elements of the craft of writing such as structure, character, time, setting, and pacing; and complete

generative writing exercises. Short readings for group discussion may be included.

Jerri Bell is the Managing Editor for O-Dark-Thirty, the literary journal of the Veterans Writing Project. She retired from the Navy in 2008. Her writing has been published in a variety of journals and newspapers, and has twice been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. She and former Marine Tracy Crow are co-authors of It’s My Country Too: Women’s Military Stories from the American Revolution to Afghanistan.

Sponsored by a grant from Texas A&M University, Libraries & Veterans National Forum

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April is Deaf History Month

by Emily Bell and Christine LeBlanc, HCLS Central Branch Deaf History Month was established in 2006 by the American Library Association and the National Association of the Deaf as a means, “to bring an awareness and appreciation of deaf culture, heritage, and American Sign Language to the public.”

Occurring every year from March 13 to April 15, the month includes three key historical moments in deaf history: the March 13, 1988 protest calling on Gallaudet University to elect their first deaf president, President Abraham Lincoln signing Gallaudet University’s charter on April 8, 1864, and the anniversary of the establishment of the first permanent public school for the deaf on April 15, 1817.

While celebrating Deaf History Month, keep in mind that there is not one true deaf experience. There exists a spectrum of experiences and abilities, all unique and valid.

Some prefer to communicate solely by speaking and reading lips, others exclusively utilize American Sign Language. My colleague Christine LeBlanc, who is profoundly deaf, feels connected to both the hearing world and the deaf world, able to speak and read lips as well as sign using ASL. She grew up in a hearing household, reading lips from an early age and learning to speak in school with the help of hearing aids. She learned ASL at age 16 through her interpreter at school, able to read her interpreter’s lips and pair the meanings with the interpreter’s sign language.

Financial Education Collection Alternatives for Tax Debt Tue Mar 1 7 – 8 pm Register at bit.ly/TaxDebtClass

East Columbia Branch

An overview of the different avenues available to taxpayers to resolve their tax disputes. The session includes Q&A.

What to Do When You Receive an IRS and/or MD Comptroller Audit Letter?

Tue Mar 15 7 – 8 pm Register at bit.ly/TaxAuditClass

Miller Branch

An outline of the necessary steps to take when a taxpayer is being audited. Audience questions welcome.

The University of Maryland Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) is an academic clinic that has been operating within the Clinical Law Offices of the University of Maryland Carey School of Law since 2011. We provide free, independent legal representation to low-income taxpayers in disputes with the IRS and/or Maryland Comptroller.

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MAR/APR 2022

Amidst the ongoing pandemic, it is important to reflect on the impact this situation has had on our deaf colleagues. Everyday tasks that should be simple, like running errands or doctor's appointments have become difficult. Masks impede the ability to read lips, making texting on a phone or writing notes necessary methods for communicating. This decrease in person-to-person interactions can also be isolating.

Christine, for one, misses interacting with customers at Central’s front desk. Please take this month to not only celebrate our deaf colleagues, but to extend some empathy during this difficult time.

The Maryland Deaf Culture Digital Library is dedicated to offering an excellent collection of deaf resources for all Maryland residents. This Deaf History Month, check out an eBook by a Deaf author, about Deaf history, or about the Deaf community. You can also watch video stories in American Sign Language. All you need is an Internet connection and a library card! To explore the collection,

$$$

visit marylanddcdl.overdrive.com.

Managing Finances in Uncertain Times Thu Mar 17 1 pm Register at bit.ly/finance317

online

Learn how to handle finances in unstable times, the importance of counseling, the impacts of financial hardships, crisis budgeting, relevant stats, debt relief options, and more.

Introduction to Homeownership Fri Apr 8 1 pm online Register at bit.ly/homeownership48 Learn the advantages and challenges of homeownership, the importance of budgeting and how credit plays a role, reasons for a mortgage denial and how to overcome them, and the role of your homebuying team.

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.

Staff Spotlight:

Christine LeBlanc

Title and branch: Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch How long have you been with HCLS? I have been at the Central Branch for all 32 years - working full time for 27 years and working as an on-call shelver for five years.

What's your favorite time of year?

I actually love all seasons, but especially autumn. I enjoy going for walks and viewing the beautiful colorful trees when the weather is cool and breezy.

What book is on currently on your nightstand?

What excites you the most about your work?

I enjoy making customers feel welcome with my smile and helping them whatever they need.

Nine Lives by Danielle Steel, who is one of my favorite authors.

How are you involved in the community?

What's your favorite place to travel?

I teach American Sign Language (ASL) to many staff members and customers who are interested in learning to sign. I have helped my colleague Missy Cantore teach sign language to babies and toddlers in a class at Central.

I love to travel to the Eastern Shore, which is peaceful and quiet and not far to drive. It is a wonderful place where I can relax in front of the water.

What’s an unusual fact about you?

I practice meditation which is spiritual meditation that I sit and look deeper within myself with peace mostly in the mornings and evenings. The other meditation is mindful meditation that helps me to be more aware of my feelings and thoughts everyday.

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Book Discussion Groups Find your next favorite read at one of our book groups!

Read from a variety of titles then attend a discussion facilitated by one of our expert staff. From philosophy

Systemwide

to graphic novels, we have something for everyone.

READING HUMAN RIGHTS DISCUSSION SERIES

Check out the list of active book groups below. Find

Tue Mar 22 6:30 pm Central Branch Register at bit.ly/hclssea

more details and register for the next meeting at howardcounty.librarycalendar.com.

Groups meet in a mix of online and in person formats. Please check the website as the situation is changeable.

HCLS Central Branch ECLECTIC EVENINGS

The Island of Sea Women deftly explores the complexities of female friendship and introduces readers to the remarkably strong and spirited female divers of Jeju Island. It’s also an eye-opening portrait of a country ravaged by decades of conflict and unrest, and a searing examination of the effects that foreign intervention can have on the evolution of a nation and of course individual lives. It asks the eternal questions: How do we find forgiveness? Can we find forgiveness?

In partnership with Howard County Office of Human Rights & Equity

2nd Tuesdays; 7 - 8 pm Read an eclectic array of various genres, both contemporary and classic.

NOONTIME BOOKS

IN OTHER WORLDS

3rd Thursdays; 12 - 1 pm Explore a variety of fiction and nonfiction books, diverse in themes, characters, settings, time periods, and authorship.

READS OF ACCEPTANCE 3rd Mondays; 7 - 8 pm Discuss books pertaining to the LGBTQ+ experience.

Sci-fi and fantasy enthusiasts and other intrepid readers welcome to read a mix of classic to contemporary titles to open your mind to new worlds and new ideas.

NONFICTION ADDICTION 3rd Wednesdays; 7 - 8 pm

HCLS East Columbia Branch

Expand your mind reading and discussing a variety of nonfiction books, from memoirs to history, and from philosophy to popular science.

BLACK FICTION

ROMANTIC READS

1st Saturdays; 1 - 2:30 pm

4th Wednesdays, 7 - 8 pm

Discuss critically-acclaimed recently published fiction titles

by Black authors.

Discuss books and series from a new romance author each month.

GOOD READS

WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT

2nd Mondays; 7 - 8 pm

3rd Tuesdays, 7 - 8 pm

Meet to discuss provocative fiction and non-fiction titles that embrace universal themes.

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4th Wednesdays; 7 - 8 pm

MAR/APR 2022

From Archie & Friends to horror, and from Caped Crusaders to crime drama, this group embraces the full spectrum of graphic novels.

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.

For titles and to register:

HCLS Elkridge Branch ELKS EXCELLENT READS 2nd Tuesdays; 12:30 - 1:30 pm Discuss fiction, both contemporary and historical, as well as narrative nonfiction.

MURDER, MISCHIEF AND MAYHEM 4th Thursdays; 7 - 8 pm Read and discuss titles including detective, spy, intrigue, and mystery. Mostly fiction, occasionally true crime. Always interesting!

READ. THINK. TALK. Mondays; 7 - 8 pm Read, think about, then discuss diverse and eclectic books (and sometimes graphic novels). Ranging from the satirical to dystopian, all the books selected concern the human condition and contain wry social commentary.

THE THURSDAY NEXT BOOK CLUB 2nd Thursdays; 7 - 8 pm Explore fiction, both contemporary and historical, as well as narrative nonfiction.

GLOBAL READS 1st Mondays; 7 - 8 pm Read and discuss a wide range of fiction and nonfiction books on different cultures around the world as well as immigrant fiction.

SPIES, LIES, AND ALIBIS 1st Tuesdays; 7 - 8 pm This group focuses on spies, espionage, and world intrigue, alternating both classic and contemporary fiction and nonfiction, from the twentieth century and beyond.

STRICTLY HISTORICAL FICTION 3rd Mondays; 2 - 3 pm Step into the past through historical fiction, and connect with characters living in times different than our own.

HCLS Savage Branch MYSTERY 2nd Wednesdays; 7 - 8:30 pm

HCLS Miller Branch

Read and discuss a range of mysteries, including procedurals, detective novels, and capers.

AN INCONVENIENT BOOK CLUB

NONFICTION

Meets quarterly on Thursdays; 7 - 8 pm

3rd Wednesdays; 7 - 8:30 pm

Discuss speculative fiction, cli-fi (climate fiction), short stories, and verse — exploring themes of climate disruption, dystopia, recovery, and redemption.

Read and discuss a wide range of narrative nonfiction, biography, and memoir.

ASIAN AMERICAN LITERATURE 3rd Mondays; 7 – 8:30 pm Read a wide range of fiction, nonfiction, biography/ autobiography that explore Asian American identities and experiences.

BAS BLEU 3rd Wednesdays; 7 - 8 pm

In the Community BOOKS ON TAP 1st Wednesdays; 6 - 7 pm Meets at The Periodic Table 8808 Centre Park Dr, Columbia Read a variety of titles and genres looking to experience an equally wide set of perspectives and experiences, with an appreciation of stories told in their Own Voices.

Bas Bleu, French for “bluestocking,” refers to an intellectual or literary woman. We read a variety of literary fiction, and all are welcome – not just bluestockings!

FOLLOW US:

hclibrary.org

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NEW DATE Sat, May 14

Across

Africa

evening in the stacks black tie optional | gala fundraiser music | food stations | African marketplace | wine pull | more!

On April 1 Visit hclibrary.org/stacks for more details and to purchase tickets.

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MAR/APR 2022

If you cannot attend this year, please consider donating to friendshcls.org.

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.

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 November 1 - December 31, 2021. Please call 410.313.7799 to report any errors or omissions.

PRESIDENTIAL CIRCLE ($10,000+) Yolanda and Francis Bruno Family Fund

$1000-$4,999 Owen Brown Community Association

Friends & Foundation of HCLS Howard County Public School System Howard Hughes Corporation M&T Bank Josephine B. Scheffenacker Education Trust Estate of George Rothstein

UP TO $1,000 Anonymous Rachael Brumsted Georgia J. and Stephen R. Bupp Cliff Crown Lee C. Hackeling Zahra Kohanloo Mary B. Sola TRIBUTES In memory of Kathleen S. Glascock: Robert Owings Glascock In honor of Dr. Mary Ann Corley for her service to adult basic education: Susan Schmidt

Friends Make It Happen!

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FRIENDS & FOUNDATION

of HOWARD COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM Join the Friends: friendshcls.org

It’s National Library Week! And this year’s theme - Connect with Your Library - is particularly relevant as our Howard County Library System focuses on creating spaces for teens to connect safely.

As a mom of four kids - and two current teenagers - this is great news. Each of the Library’s six branches now has a designated area specifically for middle and high school students, and they are continuing to enhance each space by adding great furniture and technology to invite teens to stay and connect with the resources, and each other. Howard County has very few places for teens to connect ... you know, places that don’t require a purchase or a membership to be there. HCLS is that free and open place catering to teens.

As a Board Member of the Friends & Foundation of HCLS, I invite you to join with my family and many others to donate to support the growth of teen spaces at HCLS – a great way to connect with the Library! Won't you join me?

- Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Board member, Friends & Foundation of HCLS

FOLLOW US:

hclibrary.org

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

Postmaster: Please deliver by MAR 1 2022.

For a county known for its diversity, there is a jarring amount of covert and overt racism whenever new school boundaries are recommended. I’ve heard and read people say that they don’t want their kids “going to THOSE schools” and that “some people just don’t value education as much as we do” to explain why some schools (with higher White populations) have higher test scores than schools with high Free and Reduced Meals students (and higher Black and immigrant populations). When explanations are given about the amount of supplemental materials provided by parents in schools where there is a concentration of wealth, and when details are provided on the inequities in learning materials and resources between schools with different income backgrounds, the rebuttals are usually that “all schools are good” to further the idea that some students just don’t try hard enough and some families just don’t support their students enough.

Read more stories and submit yours at: hclibrary.org/brave-voices-brave-choices

NONPROFIT ORG U.S.

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COLUMBIA, MD PERMIT NO. 18