Howard County Library System’s author events are a key component of the HCLS curriculum. Notable, best-selling, and local authors provide customers with enlightening experiences throughout the year. Bringing the community together to celebrate the literary arts is a hallmark of HCLS customer service. Join us for these opportunities to meet one of your favorite authors or discover someone new!
There are 16 upcoming classes.
School Moms: Parent Activism, Partisan Politics, and the Battle for Public Schools
Date: 04/26/24Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Author & Literary Events
Description:
"Public schools matter to our democracy and to our future. And they are under attack from people who don’t really know or care very much about what schools do or how they work.”
Join award-winning journalist and author Laura Pappano for a discussion of her new book, School Moms: Parent Activism, Partisan Politics, and the Battle for Public Schools.
Drawing upon archival research as well as on the ground reporting, Laura will share key findings regarding the increase in attacks on public schools, from book challenges to harassment of educators, and how parents across the country are fighting back.
Copies of School Moms will be available for purchase and signing, courtesy of The Last Word bookstore.
If you would like a class reminder, please register with an email address.
If you would like to request an ASL interpreter for this class/event, please complete this request form: https://bit.ly/ASL_Request_HCLS
About the Author
Laura Pappano is an award-winning journalist and author who has written about K-12 and higher education for over 30 years. A former education columnist for The Boston Globe, Pappano has written about education for The New York Times, The Hechinger Report, Harvard Education Letter, The Washington Post, USA Today, The Christian Science Monitor, among other publications. She is the author or co-author of three books, The Connection Gap: Why Americans Feel So Alone, Playing with the Boys: Why Separate is Not Equal in Sports, and Inside School Turnarounds.
This session is part of HCLS' Read Think Vote series. Click here to find similar classes and events.
Author Works: Growing an Edible Landscape: How to Transform Your Outdoor Space into a Food Garden
Date: 05/01/24Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Gardening & Nature
Description:
Authors Gary Pilarchik of @therustedgarden and Dr. Chiara D’Amore discuss their new collaborative book, Growing an Edible Landscape: How to Transform Your Outdoor Space into a Food Garden. Learn how you can convert your lawn and landscape areas into fruitful edible gardens with this practical guide overflowing with ideas, plans, designs, and know-how.
About the Authors
Gary Pilarchik has been gardening for most of his life. His grandfather taught him about vegetable gardening in first grade, and it ignited a passion that has been with him ever since. Gary started his YouTube channel, The Rusted Garden, in 2011 as a way to enjoy himself and teach others about gardening. He has since grown his following of dedicated subscribers, and started a second channel, My First Vegetable Garden, a few years later to cater to first-time vegetable growers. His belief is that a garden wants to give, vegetables want to grow, and everyone can have a successful garden. Providing information and options in his videos, Gary’s goal is to educate viewers so they can make informed choices about their gardens. He enjoys meeting gardeners from around the world through his social media reach and responds to every question and comment people leave for him. Gary sees vegetable gardening as a global hobby that brings people together across cultures and geographical boundaries.
Dr. Chiara D’Amore is the Executive Director of the Community Ecology Institute, a non-profit organization working to cultivate communities in which people and nature thrive together. She holds a PhD in Sustainability Education and MS in Environmental Science and Engineering and teaches courses related to climate change, civic ecology, experiential education, and research design. She worked as an environmental consultant for over 15 years serving clients such as the United Nations and the US Environmental Protection Agency. Dr. D’Amore also holds Master Gardener and Permaculture Design certificates.
Check out the full schedule of upcoming gardening classes at Miller here: bit.ly/garden_at_miller
Author Works: Hidden History of Howard County
Date: 05/01/24Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: History & Genealogy
Description:
Howard County has a rich and fascinating past. It was first settled in the seventeenth century, when the area was part of Anne Arundel County, and early towns formed around gristmills. Nearby quarries and mills shaped Ellicott City before the more well-known impact of the B&O Railroad in the 1830s. Cotton mills flourished, and mill towns like Savage grew. In the twentieth century, Savage briefly became the Christmas capital of the country. It was also a well-known sundown town. Historically Black communities dealt with battles over education as the state emerged from segregation. Development brought suburban neighborhoods and change to rural areas, and planned communities like Columbia affected Guilford and other surrounding towns.
Join local authors Nathan Davis and Wayne Davis as they explore myths and uncover erased histories. This father and son team will share what it was like to work together, motivation for putting together this book, their favorite stories and what research they plan next.
Books will be available for purchase and signing after the presentation.
Nathan S. Davis is the on-site manager of the Baltimore and Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum, operated by the Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks. A resident of Columbia, Maryland for most of his life, Nathan has a history degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, only ten minutes from his museum. He has devoted countless hours researching Howard County history for professional and personal interest.
Wayne S. Davis is a retired federal government scientist and researcher who began his career writing about environmental history before developing a more recent interest in local history. He promotes research and access to accurate local history which he has been doing by hosting a FB group, website, and publishing local articles.
Veterans Book Group 2024 (virtual)
Date: 05/05/24Time: 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Community Events
Description:
Veterans, both active and retired military, are invited to this online discussion series. During five monthly facilitated sessions, discussions center on military experiences and a unique set of readings, which may include classics, fiction, memoirs, poetry, short stories, articles, and essays. The readings relate in some way to military experiences or offer a veteran’s perspective.
Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions. Registration is open to veterans/active duty only, please.
All reading materials are provided. Space is limited.
1st Sundays; February 4 - June 2 from 1:30 - 3:00 pm. Online.
The Veterans Book Group is moderated by David Owens. David Owens is a Navy veteran who served for six years onboard two U.S. Navy warships. Owens attended the U.S. Naval Academy and now runs a small media content production business based in the D.C. metropolitan area. Owens loves to read and, even more so, enjoys the discussions and camaraderie of the veteran book groups!
The Veterans Book Group is coordinated statewide by Maryland Humanities and is presented locally in partnership with Howard County Library System. The Veterans Book Group is supported in part by the Wawa Foundation.
Reading Selections:
February 4: The Bastard Brigade: The True Story of the Renegade Scientists and Spies Who Sabotaged the Nazi Atomic Bomb by Sam Kean
March 3: The Healer's War: A Fantasy Novel of Vietnam by Elizabeth Ann Scarborough
April 7: A Constellation of Vital Phenomena: A Novel by Anthony Marra
May 5: My Life as a Foreign Country: A Memoir by Brian Turner
June 2: Suddenly We Didn't Want to Die: Memoirs of a World War I Marine by Elton Mackin
Please register with an email address to receive an immediate registration confirmation with a link to join the class/event. This email will also contain the dial-in information if you wish to participate by telephone. For any questions, please email [email protected].
What's On Your Shelf? Fiction and Nonfiction Book Chat
Date: 05/09/24Time: 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).
Create a 'Zine w/J. Scott and Self Publish
Date: 05/09/24Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: DIY & Makerspace
Description:
Create and self publish your own independent magazine. Often referred to as a 'Zine, these DIY publications are created by folding paper into a booklet, and offer authors and artists a wide variety of content, style, and freedom when publishing. 'Zines are thought to be unrestrained and genuine by nature. They can focus on any and everything that the author/artist wants to. Some 'Zines are personal narratives, others are factual, some 'Zines are photography focused, others resemble comics. Ultimately, 'Zines are a DIY way of publishing with few limitations to content, style, or format.
Author Works-Yoga In the Black Community
Date: 05/11/24Time: 11:00am - 12:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Health & Wellness
Description:
"Yoga in the Black Community: Healing Practices and Principles," authored by Charlene Marie Muhammad and Dr. Marilyn Peppers-Citizen, is a thought-provoking work that dives deep into the transformative power of yoga within the Black community, shedding light on the unique and enriching experiences, practices, and principles that have enriched the lives of many.
This discussion of the book delves into the history and cultural significance of yoga, offering a fresh perspective that highlights its relevance in the Black community's journey towards holistic well-being. A comparative alignment of the yoga philosophy principles to common cultural and religious practices in the Black community will be highlighted followed by a contemplative practice of yoga.
Charlene Marie Muhammad is a wellness practitioner, practicing yoga for over 30 years. Charlene holds a Master of Science Degree in Herbal Medicine from Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) and is a licensed dietitian and certified yoga therapist. She and Marilyn are members of the Black Yoga Teachers Alliance Board of Directors.
Dr. Marilyn Peppers-Citizen is a certified yoga therapist, national board-certified health, and wellness coach, and is clinic faculty for the MUIH Master of Science in Yoga Therapy program. Marilyn has more than 35 years of military and business leadership experience in various senior-level capacities. She also studied holistic health and wellness and embraced yoga 26 years ago, studying multiple traditions. She is a retired Air Force Colonel and holds a Ph.D. in public policy and master’s degrees in business and national resource strategy.
Book signing to follow discussion.
Create a 'Zine and Self Publish w/ J. Scott
Date: 05/16/24Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: DIY & Makerspace
Description:
Create and self publish your own independent magazine. Often referred to as a 'Zine, these DIY publications are created by folding paper into a booklet, and offer authors and artists a wide variety of content, style, and freedom when publishing. 'Zines are thought to be unrestrained and genuine by nature. They can focus on any and everything that the author/artist wants to. Some 'Zines are personal narratives, others are factual, some 'Zines are photography focused, others resemble comics. Ultimately, 'Zines are a DIY way of publishing with few limitations to content, style, or format.
Taste the Tradition: Exploring Asian Cuisine with Chef Jet Tila (Online)
Date: 05/21/24Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating AAPI Heritage Month with a special live online cooking demonstration and storytelling event featuring celebrity chef Jet Tila!
Embark on a delightful culinary journey as Chef Jet shares his personal story, culinary insights, and favorite recipes straight from his kitchen to yours. From traditional flavors to modern twists, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Asian cuisine and culture. Get ready to be inspired and tantalize your taste buds with his culinary expertise.
But wait, there's more! To ensure you have all the ingredients needed to cook along with Chef Jet Tila, we've arranged a special trip to H-Mart, located at 3301 North Ridge Rd. Ellicott City, Md. 21043, on May 20th, Monday, from 3-4pm. This exclusive tour is part of our ongoing monthly International Grocery Store Tour series, and it is NOT required to attend the online cooking demonstration event.
To register for the H-Mart tour click here.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the flavors of AAPI heritage with Chef Jet Tila. Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable culinary journey!
Create a 'Zine and Self Publish w/ J. Scott
Date: 05/23/24Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: DIY & Makerspace
Description:
Create and self publish your own independent magazine. Often referred to as a 'Zine, these DIY publications are created by folding paper into a booklet, and offer authors and artists a wide variety of content, style, and freedom when publishing. 'Zines are thought to be unrestrained and genuine by nature. They can focus on any and everything that the author/artist wants to. Some 'Zines are personal narratives, others are factual, some 'Zines are photography focused, others resemble comics. Ultimately, 'Zines are a DIY way of publishing with few limitations to content, style, or format.
Miller's Windows & Mirrors Teen Book Club
Date: 05/25/24Time: 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Miller's Windows & Mirrors Teen Book Club, Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Ages 14-17 | Registration preferred | Pick up the book from Miller Branch's customer service desk* | Pizza included!
Windows allow us to experience other cultures, and mirrors reflect parts of our own. Read and discuss books from diverse viewpoints over pizza, in HCLS' Windows & Mirrors Book Club for Teens.
May book: Out of Darkness by Ashley Hope Pérez. Prefer to listen? Try an audiobook for free with Libby.
*Books for this book club have been set aside for students who would like to attend the book club. Ask for one at Miller's customer service desk.
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Book description: "This is East Texas, and there's lines. Lines you cross, lines you don't cross. That clear?" New London, Texas, 1937. Naomi Vargas and Wash Fuller know about the lines in East Texas as well as anyone. They know the signs that mark them. They know the people who enforce them. But sometimes the attraction between two people is so powerful, it breaks through even the most entrenched color lines. And the consequences can be explosive. Ashley Hope Pérez takes the facts of the 1937 New London school explosion, the worst school disaster in American history, as a backdrop for a riveting novel about segregation, love, family, and the forces that destroy people." --Amazon."
Read more about the book here.
See other Windows & Mirrors Book Club events here.
Completion of the book is encouraged but NOT required.
FAM
Veterans Book Group 2024 (virtual)
Date: 06/02/24Time: 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Community Events
Description:
Veterans, both active and retired military, are invited to this online discussion series. During five monthly facilitated sessions, discussions center on military experiences and a unique set of readings, which may include classics, fiction, memoirs, poetry, short stories, articles, and essays. The readings relate in some way to military experiences or offer a veteran’s perspective.
Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions. Registration is open to veterans/active duty only, please.
All reading materials are provided. Space is limited.
1st Sundays; February 4 - June 2 from 1:30 - 3:00 pm. Online.
The Veterans Book Group is moderated by David Owens. David Owens is a Navy veteran who served for six years onboard two U.S. Navy warships. Owens attended the U.S. Naval Academy and now runs a small media content production business based in the D.C. metropolitan area. Owens loves to read and, even more so, enjoys the discussions and camaraderie of the veteran book groups!
The Veterans Book Group is coordinated statewide by Maryland Humanities and is presented locally in partnership with Howard County Library System. The Veterans Book Group is supported in part by the Wawa Foundation.
Reading Selections:
February 4: The Bastard Brigade: The True Story of the Renegade Scientists and Spies Who Sabotaged the Nazi Atomic Bomb by Sam Kean
March 3: The Healer's War: A Fantasy Novel of Vietnam by Elizabeth Ann Scarborough
April 7: A Constellation of Vital Phenomena: A Novel by Anthony Marra
May 5: My Life as a Foreign Country: A Memoir by Brian Turner
June 2: Suddenly We Didn't Want to Die: Memoirs of a World War I Marine by Elton Mackin
Please register with an email address to receive an immediate registration confirmation with a link to join the class/event. This email will also contain the dial-in information if you wish to participate by telephone. For any questions, please email [email protected].
Adult Summer Reading Showcase (Online)
Date: 06/04/24Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Author & Literary Events
Description:
Looking for book recommendations to read this summer while on vacation, at the beach, camping or relaxing in the evenings?
Venture into adult summer reading, guided by an adventurous crew of HCLS Instructors.
Get live suggestions for titles to read, explore the Adult Summer Reading 2024 list, discover how to participate in the summer reading competition, and learn about upcoming events.
Online.
Register to receive zoom link.
Tue Jun 4 7 pm
This class is part of our Summer Reading Adventures series! Click here to find a full schedule of classes and events.
Create a 'Zine and Self Publish w/ J. Scott
Date: 06/06/24Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: DIY & Makerspace
Description:
Create and self publish your own independent magazine. Often referred to as a 'Zine, these DIY publications are created by folding paper into a booklet, and offer authors and artists a wide variety of content, style, and freedom when publishing. 'Zines are thought to be unrestrained and genuine by nature. They can focus on any and everything that the author/artist wants to. Some 'Zines are personal narratives, others are factual, some 'Zines are photography focused, others resemble comics. Ultimately, 'Zines are a DIY way of publishing with few limitations to content, style, or format.
Create a 'Zine and Self Publish w/ J. Scott
Date: 06/13/24Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: DIY & Makerspace
Description:
Create and self publish your own independent magazine. Often referred to as a 'Zine, these DIY publications are created by folding paper into a booklet, and offer authors and artists a wide variety of content, style, and freedom when publishing. 'Zines are thought to be unrestrained and genuine by nature. They can focus on any and everything that the author/artist wants to. Some 'Zines are personal narratives, others are factual, some 'Zines are photography focused, others resemble comics. Ultimately, 'Zines are a DIY way of publishing with few limitations to content, style, or format.
Create a 'Zine and Self Publish w/ J. Scott
Date: 06/27/24Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: DIY & Makerspace
Description:
Create and self publish your own independent magazine. Often referred to as a 'Zine, these DIY publications are created by folding paper into a booklet, and offer authors and artists a wide variety of content, style, and freedom when publishing. 'Zines are thought to be unrestrained and genuine by nature. They can focus on any and everything that the author/artist wants to. Some 'Zines are personal narratives, others are factual, some 'Zines are photography focused, others resemble comics. Ultimately, 'Zines are a DIY way of publishing with few limitations to content, style, or format.