Find educational classes and enriching experiences for all ages and interests.
- Click here for video tutorials by HCLS instructors
- Click here for a list of on-demand classes (e.g, Gale Courses, Lynda.com, Cisco).
- Click here to participate in summer reading.
Virtual classes and events presented on Zoom are closed captioned by request only. If you would like to request closed captioning for a live class or event, email [email protected] at least three business days in advance.
TO SEARCH select a beginning AND ending date on the calendar below by clicking in the date field. Use the more specific dropdown fields to further customize your search. IMPORTANT… RESET between each search.
There are 68 upcoming classes.
Exhibit: Hidden Voices- Mary Cardwell Dawson: The Legacy of an Opera Pioneer
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00am - 12:00am
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Everyone
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
During June and July, drop by the Equity Resource Center and Collection (ERCC) on the second floor of the Central Branch and experience this fascinating, multi-media exhibit. Opera has profoundly influenced modern music, leaving its mark on various genres and musical styles.
Learn about the legacy of Mary Cardwell Dawson and her impact on opera and American music history. Her history is captured in this exhibit which features a Listening Room so customers can hear not just her singing, but other artists she influenced.
Mary Cardwell Dawson and the National Negro Opera Company were an important touchstone in the history of Black opera. While companies devoted to Black performers and European repertoire had existed since the late nineteenth century, this is one of the first to be run by a Black woman. Nearly 2000 were hired over its 20-year history with performances taking place in Washington, D.C., Chicago, New York and Pittsburgh.
Baby's Play Date (infant-23 months)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:00am
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
Allow 20 min.
Play with our toys, read a board book, and visit with others.
Carnival Engineering: Pinball
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Engineer Pinball games for the HiTech Carnival! Build a table-top pinball machine, and use Arduino micro-controllers, sensors and software to keep score!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Carnival Engineering: Skeeball
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Engineer a Skee Ball Game for the HiTech Carnival! Build this classic carnival game from scratch using Arduino micro-controllers, sensors and software to keep score of your game. Highest score wins!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Carnival Games
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Engineer Carnival Games for the HiTech Carnival! Use your creativity and engineering skills to design and build games such as Ring Toss, Spin the Wheel, and Plinko--or come up with your own idea!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held M - F, register once for all sessions.
Catapult
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Be catapulted into the adventure of solving mechanical problems with a catapult! Learn not just basic engineering, but also mechanical engineering techniques.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Character Design
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Learn about the process behind designing your own characters and using illustration software. Create the look of your character, its costumes, and props, and give it a unique personality!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Interior Design with Planner 5D
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Students will create their own spaces using Planner 5D, a web-based program. They will learn about creating mood boards, design concepts, and using Planner 5D to bring their ideas to life!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Java
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Discover the basics of Java, a class-based, object-oriented language used to design applications. Learn data and expressions, using classes and objects, conditionals, and loops. Create programming projects each day based on the topics covered.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Movie Magic: Cosmetics
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Dive into the world of special effects, through the view of a Makeup Artist! Students will learn the history and science behind the film industry’s own movie magic. Learn about the chemicals that are found in the cosmetics used to create monsters and zombies in the movies and then create your own design using DIY monster cosmetics.
Grades 6-12.
Registration required.
Register once for all five sessions.
Monday-Friday
Taught by a HiTech Instructor.
Weird Science
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Have you ever wanted to become a mad scientist? Explore fun and exciting chemistry experiments using basic household chemicals. Engineer an assortment of mind-blowing matter to take home and spook your friends and family.
Registration required.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Zoology
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
This course will cover an overview of the topics in zoology, including cell biology, taxonomy, major vertebrate groups, physiology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Activities related to the course material will be completed each day.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Beyond Words at the Central Branch
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Description:
The theme for this month is: Summer Fun!
Step into the fun and active world of Adult Beyond Words, an inclusive monthly class designed to spark joy and ignite the imagination of people (ages 18+) with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities.
Participants may partake in five engaging stations, that include:
Motor Skills - with activities that celebrate fine motor movement and coordination
Arts & Crafts - where imagination and artistic vision come to life, giving voice to the unique expressions within
Cognitive Skills - with puzzles and cognitive challenges that nurture intellectual growth and problem-solving skills
Movement - with active games, physical challenges, and other movement exploration that focuses on gross motor skills, balance, etc.to get participants up and moving
Sensory - where calm, relaxation, and play combine to stimulate and regulate the senses to reduce anxiety and stress
With a new theme and different stations each month, Adult Beyond Words is not just a class; it's an invitation to celebrate the joy of discovery and the magic of shared experiences while creating personal connection and growth.
Participants may stay for as little or as long as they want.
Caregivers must stay with participants at all times. Each participant must be registered individually and must be on the registration list in order to attend this class.
Questions? please email [email protected].
Additional Dates in this Class Series:
August: Outer Space
August 6 from 10 am - 12 pm | Register here
Class registration opens two weeks prior to class date.
Pins and Needles
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Description:
Looking for dedicated time to work on projects? Bring stitching you'd like to finish, connect with others, and share ideas and tips. Drop in anytime between 10 am and 12 pm.
Just For Me (3-6 years) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:15am - 10:45am
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
JUST FOR ME
Ages 3-6; 30 min. Limited Attendance. Ticket (name tag) required.
For children who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, and early reading skills.
Tickets (name tags) available 15 minutes before class.
Picture Book Parade (ages 2-5 with adult) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:15am - 10:45am
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Art, Movies & Music
Description:
Play Partners [infant-23 months with adult] TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:15am - 10:45am
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
3, 2, Fun (ages 2-3 with adult) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:30am - 11:00am
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Ages 2-3 years with adult; 30 min. Ticket required.
Preschoolers develop skills for talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing through stories, songs, fingerplays, and rhymes.
Free ticket available at the children's desk 15 minutes before class.
All Together Now- Summer Reading Adventures, (All Ages) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:30am - 11:00am
Branch: Glenwood Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
Meet with a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist from Howard County Health Department
Date: 07/10/25Time: 10:30am - 4:00pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens, Adults
Program type: Health & Wellness
Description:
Meet with a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist from Howard County Health Department
Are you or someone you know struggling with addiction and recovery and want to learn about available resources and supports? Connect with a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) from Howard County Health Department.
CPRS are trained professionals who are uniquely qualified with the lived experience of recovery from substance use, mental health or co-occurring disorders to share with others that are experiencing similar challenges. The non-clinical, strengths-based support is founded in their own unique recovery journeys, raising awareness, normalizing conversation around such struggles and connecting individuals to local resources and support networks.
Naloxone (Narcan) training and free Naloxone kits are available on request. This life-saving medication is used to reverse opioid overdoses. Learn how to properly administer it in case of an emergency.
All conversations are anonymous and confidential. Drop in, no registration required.
Peer Recovery Specialists will be available at all HCLS branches from 10:30am - 4pm. Click here for the full schedule.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available. Contact Howard County Health Department, Bureau of Behavior Health, at 410.313.6202, or call 988.
Picture Book Parade (ages 2-5 with adult) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 11:15am - 11:45am
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Art, Movies & Music
Description:
Just For Me (3-6 years) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 11:30am - 12:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
JUST FOR ME
Ages 3-6; 30 min. Limited Attendance. Ticket (name tag) required.
For children who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, and early reading skills.
Tickets (name tags) available 15 minutes before class.
Play Partners [infant-23 months with adult] TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 11:30am - 12:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
3D Printing with Pens
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Are you interested in 3D printing? Use 3D printing pens and colorful filaments to create unique 3D designs! This is a great class to introduce students to the basics of 3D printing.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Basics of Programming: Hands-on Lab with Artie
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Did you know that programming is a key component in many technologies used today? Robotics and automation are two of the areas that are at the forefront of technologies that require programming knowledge. Learn about the basics of programming, robotics, and automation in this hands-on lab with Artie.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
CyberSecurity & the World
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Students will learn about protecting their information, recognizing fishing scams, navigating social media and different types of cyber attacks. There will be hands on opportunities for encrypting and decrypting messages getting a high level understanding of network security, cyber security as a profession, and more all while having fun and creating a melody to remember!
Grades 6-12.
Registration required.
Register once for all five sessions.
Monday-Friday
Taught by a HiTech Instructor.
German Conversation Club (In-Person)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: Off Site
Age group: Adults
Program type: Culture & Language
Description:
Improve your German in a fun and relaxed setting! Join us for casual conversation and language practice—open to all levels.
Meeting Times:
In-Person: Every second Thursday at 12:00 PM at the East Columbia Branch
Please note: In July and August 2025, in-person meetings will take place at Rathskeller – German Restaurant.Online: Every second Thursday at 4:00 PM via Zoom
Prefer to join us online? Click here to register for the Zoom session.
Please register using your email to receive the meeting link.
Come join the conversation and enjoy learning German in a relaxed, friendly setting!
Illustrator
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Learn how to create digital designs using Adobe Illustrator!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Intro to Genetics
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Get an introduction to the basics of Mendelian Genetics! We’ll explore topics such as inheritance patterns, genetic diversity, and genetic diseases using laws derived from Gregor Mendel’s important experiments. Punnett Squares, genetics crosses, and pedigrees will help demonstrate the role and function of alleles in genetic inheritance from one generation to the next.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Intro to Genetics
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Get an introduction to the basics of Mendelian Genetics! We’ll explore topics such as inheritance patterns, genetic diversity, and genetic diseases using laws derived from Gregor Mendel’s important experiments. Punnett Squares, genetics crosses, and pedigrees will help demonstrate the role and function of alleles in genetic inheritance from one generation to the next.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Rocketry
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Come and design your own rocket that soars well beyond the roof of the library. Learn about how engineers generate and manipulate forces that propel projectiles thousands of feet into the air.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Science of Art
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Learn how the creation of art is influenced by science and do experiments in chemistry, fluid dynamics, and color theory to make amazing works of art! Students will create acrylic-pour paintings, make their own watercolor paints, and use resin and alcohol ink to create a one-of-a kind piece of art.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Science of Colors & Tie-Dye
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Explore the use of color and tie-dye techniques in this fun class. Students will tie-dye drawstrings bags, pencil cases, and fabric that will be part of a larger project for the Carnival.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
ORK in the Community (Summer Food Sites)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:30pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Mobile Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Community Events
Description:
We hope to see you at Ducketts Lane Elementary School (6501 Ducketts Ln, Elkridge, MD 21075) from 12:30-2:00pm in the bus loop.
¡Esperamos verle en Ducketts Lane Elementary School (6501 Ducketts Ln, Elkridge, MD 21075) de 12:30 a 14:00 en el bucle del autobús!
Summer Meal Program
Date: 07/10/25Time: 12:30pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Children, Teens
Program type: Health & Wellness
Description:
HCPSS 2025 Summer Lunch Meal Program provided by Howard County Public School.
Provided daily, from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm, Monday through Friday, from June 23 to August 1, 2025, except on Friday, July 4, 2025 for children aged 18 and under.
There are no applications, enrollment fees, or other costs to participate in this program. Children must be present to receive free meals.
Carnival Chemistry
Date: 07/10/25Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
This course will cover a review of basic chemistry concepts and will guide students to build and design chemistry-related carnival games.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Exploring Computing Language through Humanoid Robots & the ROBOTIC DOG!
Date: 07/10/25Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Learn the structure and design of artificial intelligence. Explore the concepts needed to program a human-to-robot interactive conversation and investigate recent technological advances, including our robotic dog!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Games of Probability & Chance
Date: 07/10/25Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Are you taking pre-algebra or algebra 1 and need to learn about probability? Do it the fun way and get a head start with this probability and statistics class! Play games, solve puzzles, and more, all while learning the basics of probability and statistics.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Periodic Challenge
Date: 07/10/25Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Learn about the elements as you arrange the periodic table, name compounds, balance equations, and discuss orbitals, electron configuration, and VSPER Theory.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Perspective Drawing
Date: 07/10/25Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Learn about one, two, and three-point perspective and create illustrations using newfound knowledge. By learning perspective drawing techniques in Sketchbook Pro, students will be able to create illustrations with dynamic angles and views. These skills can be used in visual development, comics, animation, and storyboarding!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Sports Science
Date: 07/10/25Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Deflategate and the ideal gas law? Bend it like Beckham? What is a knuckle ball? Learn about the physics behind your favorite sports with hands-on experiments.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Creativity Club [grades 4th-5th] TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:00pm - 2:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Description:
4th-5th grade; 30-45 mins. Ticket required.
Get ready to imagine, invent, and create! Whether you love art, storytelling, or just using your imagination, this club is the perfect place to express yourself and try new things.
This month, we will create suncatchers with recycled materials.
Tickets will be available at the children's desk 15 minutes before class.
National Teddy Bear Picnic Day (4 years +) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:00pm - 2:30pm
Branch: Glenwood Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
Bring your favorite teddy bear or other stuffed friend to the library to celebrate National Teddy Bear Picnic Day. Read a story, participate in a pretend picnic, and make a craft to take home.
Earthquake Science (8-10 yrs) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:00pm - 2:45pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Ages 6-10. 45 minutes. Ticket Required. Tickets available 15 minutes before class.
Come learn all about earthquakes in this fun class! Learn about what causes earthquakes and how we measure them. Experiment with different types of waves moving through the ground. Try to build an earthquake proof house and test it to see how it holds up.
Beginning Modular Robotics (ages 9 - 11)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Children, Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Ages 9 - 11. Registration required.
Explore the concept of modular robotics by working with Cubelets. Join a group and compete in a challenge! Perfect for beginners.
What's On Your Shelf? Fiction and Nonfiction Book Chat
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Community Events
Description:
Share fiction and/or nonfiction titles that are on your bookshelf and we will share titles from our shelves. If you don't have a title to share, find inspiration in what others recommend and start building your reading list.
Readers also have the opportunity to ask for recommendations or to ask our instructors questions about books, reading, and the library. Previous discussion topics have included book donations, Little Free Libraries, and Goodreads (the world's largest website for readers and book recommendations).
Bingo Social
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Description:
B-I-N-G-O! Get sociable and win prizes. Compete and converse with other bingo fans.
Games will be held on a rotating Thursday schedule at all branches, so please make note of the location for each date. Click the branch name below to register; please register for each date separately.
- 3/13/2025 - Elkridge Branch
- 4/17/2025 - Miller Branch
- 5/8/2025 - Glenwood Branch
- 6/12/2025 - East Columbia Branch
- 7/10/2025 - Central Branch
- 8/14/2025 - Savage Branch
Make it Take It (Ages 7-12) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Crafts, Fun & Games!
Description:
Ages 7-12 allow 30 minutes. Ticket required.
Paint! Create! Have fun painting wind chimes and friendship rocks.
Tickets available 15 minutes prior to class.
3D Character Modeling
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Explore 3D Character Modeling through developing characters, animation, and game development.
This is a two week class.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
3D Printing & Design
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Dive into the world of 3D printing during HiTech Summer! Meet our Prusa MK4S, learn how to create your own 3D models, and work together with other teens to experiment with different printing materials.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
A/V Lab
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Join us for access to the sound booth and other HiTech equipment to record and mix music or create movies.
Registration preferred. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Carnival Engineering: Water Misters
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Using the principles of engineering, help us keep our carnival cool this year by building the water mister arch!
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Chemical Engineering
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Dive into the exciting world of chemical engineering through real-world challenges! Over just five days, students will explore core chemicalengineering concepts—like reaction design, separation processes, heat transfer, and process optimization—by building and testing their own prototypes using safe, hands-on experiments.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Electrical Engineering
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Lights On, Lights Off! Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes when you flip a light switch on the wall or press the ON button of a battery-powered fan in the summer? Why do some toys need AAA batteries to operate while other toys need C batteries? Discover the math and science principles used by Electrical Engineers as you build simple circuits to power various devices.
Taught by a HiTech Instructor. Registration required. Grades 6-12.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Marine Biology
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
The students will do a deep dive into some of the marine environments they see often but know little about. They will look at the ocean, rivers, Chesapeake Bay, intertidal zones, and coastal features to see what makes each of them unique and how the animals have adjusted to living there.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Rube Goldberg Challenge
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Let the Games begin! Take on engineering challenges of old with Rube Goldberg Challenges. In every class, we'll take on a new challenge while reinforcing core engineering principles. Creativity, fun, and laughter are all required in true Rube Goldberg style.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
Register once for all sessions.
Sea Perch
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Dive into underwater robotics. This summer stop by and participate in the 2-week Seaperch submersibles and marine science classes. Sea Perch is a remotely operated vehicle built by students to accomplish underwater competitions.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Sports Science
Date: 07/10/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Deflategate and the ideal gas law? Bend it like Beckham? What is a knuckle ball? Learn about the physics behind your favorite sports with hands-on experiments.
Registration required. Grades 6-12.
Taught by a HiTech instructor.
This class is being held Mon - Fri, register once for all sessions.
Beginning Modular Robotics (ages 11 - 13)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Children, Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Ages 11 - 13. Registration required.
Explore the concept of modular robotics by working with Cubelets. Join a group and compete in a challenge! Perfect for beginners.
ORK in the Community
Date: 07/10/25Time: 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Branch: Mobile Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Community Events
Description:
We hope to see you at Deep Run Park (6551 Deep Run Pkwy, Elkridge, MD 21075) from 4:00-5:00pm, near the playground & pool!
¡Esperamos verte en Deep Run Park (6551 Deep Run Pkwy, Elkridge, MD 21075) de 4:00-5:00pm, cerca del parque infantil y la piscina!
German Conversation Club (Online)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Culture & Language
Description:
Practice Your German in a Friendly, Relaxed Setting!
Looking to boost your German conversation skills? Join us for a fun and informal language practice session!
Online Meetings:
Connect via Zoom every second Thursday of the month at 4 PM.
Register with your email to receive the Zoom link and dial-in details if you'd prefer to join by phone.
Prefer to meet in person?
Drop by the East Columbia Branch at 12 PM on the same day—second Thursdays of the month.
Please note: In July and August 2025, in-person meetings will take place at Rathskeller – German Restaurant.
Click HERE to register.
Teen Dungeons & Dragons Night (ages 14-18)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Ages 14-18. 120 minutes. RG: Registration required.
Play D&D, make friends, and enjoy a snack. All experience levels welcome, beginners included! Missed the first session? No problem—this D&D game is designed for flexibility.
Standing atop a rocky crag overlooking the Sea of Swords, the massive citadel of Candlekeep has endured the elements for centuries and defied the degradations of time. Visible for miles around, Candlekeep has an eye-catching silhouette: a high wall interspersed with towers.
Candlekeep houses the largest repository of written lore in Faerûn. The required entrance fee for admission into Candlekeep is a work of writing not already collected therein. Answers can be found within the gates of the keep--why have you come, and what will you bring to gain access to its secrets?
Pajama Time (all ages with adult) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Children, Everyone
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
Finding Your Dream College (Online)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: College & Trade Schools
Description:
There is a college out there for everyone, and thousands of colleges across the country. An expert from Princeton Review help students discover what a dream college means for them, and help them find their best fit.
The Zoom link to access the class will be sent to the email address given.
Upcycled Art: Upcycle Chic – DIY Decoupage Bags
Date: 07/10/25Time: 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens, Adults
Program type: DIY & Makerspace
Description:
Decoupage a Personalized Canvas Makeup Bag!
In this hands-on class, you'll learn the art of decoupage—a fun and easy technique where you transform everyday items by layering beautiful paper or fabric onto surfaces, then sealing them with a glossy finish.
Decoupaging is also a popular upcycling method, making it a great way to give new life to plain or unused items while adding your own creative flair.
We'll be using elegant napkins to design and decorate small canvas makeup bags, creating personalized, eye-catching accessories that are as practical as they are pretty—and yes, they'll be water-resistant too!
All materials, including canvas bags, will be provided—but feel free to bring your own blank canvas bag if you'd like to personalize something special. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or brand new to DIY, you’ll leave with a unique bag and a cool new skill!
In partnership with the Clarksville Youth Care Group (CYCG).
Please register with an email address to receive a class reminder.
Pajama Time (All Ages) TK
Date: 07/10/25Time: 7:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Early Learning
Description:
All ages with adult; 30 min. Ticket required.
A class before bedtime. Children build skills in singing, talking, listening, reading, and getting along with others through stories, music, rhymes, and activities. Children may wear their pajamas and bring their loveys and blankets.
Free tickets will be available at the Children's Desk 15 minutes before class. Class capacity will determine the availability of tickets.
Warning Graphic Content (Online)
Date: 07/10/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Book Clubs
Description:
Read and discuss a wide array of graphic novels. 2nd Thursdays 7 - 8 pm.
July 10 No/One by Kyle Higgins and Brian Buccellato
August 14 Made in Korea by Jeremy Holt
September 11 Ghost Omnibus by Erik Luke AND Ghost Vol 1: In The Smoke and Din by Kelly Sue Deconnick
October 9 Bad Gateway by Simon Hanselmann
November 13 Coyotes by Sean Lewis
December 11 Monstress by Marjorie Liu
January 8 Lone Wolf and Cub by Kazuo Koike
February 12 Our Alchemical Bodies by Thomas Gilbert
March 12 Lazarus: The First Collection by Greg Rucka
April 9
May 14 Bear Pirate Viking Queen by Sean Lewis
Please register with an email address to receive an immediate registration confirmation. You will receive the link to the online class in the confirmation email. This email will also contain as the dial-in information if you wish to participate by telephone.
Title is available via hoopla
World Languages Cafe
Date: 07/10/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:45pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens, Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
In collaboration with Columbia Association, Howard County Library System's Miller Branch will host a monthly World Languages Café, beginning in September on the 2nd Thursday evening, from 7 - 8:45 pm.
Established by the Columbia Association’s International Exchange & Multicultural Program 10 years ago, the World Languages Café (WLC) provides a venue where people meet to practice a world language with fellow community members, facilitated by a native or fluent speaker of that language. Over the years, the WLC has featured languages including *Arabic, *American Sign Language, *Chinese, Dutch, *French, Hebrew, Irish Gaelic, Italian, *Japanese, *Korean, Portuguese, and *Spanish. (*Currently available at Miller Branch Library location)
Second Thursdays, 7 - 8:45 pm
The World Languages Café is free, and registration is preferred, but not required. Please indicate in the registration comments field the language you would like to practice. Ages 13+.
We are also seeking language table hosts. If you are interested in connecting with community members by volunteering to host a table in the language of your choice at HCLS Miller Branch, please email [email protected] or call 410-924-2226.
