There are 33 upcoming classes.
Adult Beyond Words
Date: 08/11/25Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
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.
The theme for this month is Outer Space
Required Reading: Texts for Change Book Club (Online)
Date: 08/12/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Required Reading: Texts for Change is the new quarterly book club of the HCLS Equity Resource Center & Collection. Join other equity-minded colleagues and community members who are curious, committed, and ready to keep growing. Together, we’ll engage with powerful texts—books that challenge assumptions, introduce new frameworks, and offer fresh ways of thinking about equity in our work and in our community.
Why now? Because Howard County is a beautifully diverse community—with people of all backgrounds, experiences, and dreams. And like many places, we’re also navigating real disparities in access, opportunity, and belonging. This book club invites us to pause, reflect, and build our capacity to better serve, support, and show up for the people who call our county home.
We’ll read three nonfiction books throughout the year and one fiction title each summer—something a little lighter to make space for joy and imagination. Some of these texts may stretch us. That’s the point. Growth happens when we’re willing to sit with complexity and listen deeply—to authors, to each other, and to the communities we live in and serve.
This isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about reading with intention—and learning together in community.
August 12 - Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
November 11- Seek: how curiosity can transform your life and change the world by Scott Shigeoka
February 10 - TBD
May 12 - TBD
English Conversation Class (in-person)
Date: 08/13/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Is English your second (or third) language? Practice speaking and listening in a small group.
Wednesdays, 7:00- 8:30 pm
World Languages Cafe
Date: 08/14/25Time: 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.
Asian American Literature Book Club (Online)
Date: 08/18/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Join our monthly discussion of Asian American literary titles.
- Mar. 17 2025 Late Bloomers by Deepa Varadarajan
- Apr. 21 2025 While Time Remains by Yeonmi Park
- May 19 Memory Piece by Lisa Ko
- Jun. 16 Private Equity: a memoir by Carrie Sun
- Jul. 21 The Emma Project by Sonali Dev
- Aug 18 The Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi Kashiwai
Registered customers should place a hold request on the title using their library card in order to receive a copy to read before the discussion.
Availability of physical copies is not guaranteed.
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.
Teen Beyond Words (Ages 11-17)
Date: 08/20/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
For Teens Ages 11-17 with learning/developmental disabilities.
Come and participate at 5 different activity stations.
This month’s theme: OUTER SPACE
Registration is required.
Cycle of Segregation: A Two-Part Book Discussion
Date: 08/21/25Time: 6:30pm - 7:45pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Cycle of Segregation: Book Discussion – Part One
Two-part series: Aug 21 & Aug 28
Join Johns Hopkins University sociology professor Michael Bader and Columbia Housing Center Executive Director Jessamine Duvall for a special two-part community discussion of Cycle of Segregation: Social Processes and Residential Stratification by Maria Krysan and Kyle Crowder.
This groundbreaking book explores why residential segregation persists more than fifty years after the Fair Housing Act — and how everyday social networks and past neighborhood experiences can keep the cycle going.
In Part One (August 21), we'll unpack the book’s core ideas together, grounding them in the context of Columbia’s original vision of integration.
In Part Two (August 28), we’ll dive deeper into county-wide implications, reflect on what this research means for our neighborhoods today, and explore actions we can take to interrupt segregation’s self-perpetuating patterns in Howard County.
Whether you’re new to this topic or eager to connect the dots between history and the present, these conversations will help us see how we can shape a more inclusive future — together. Please plan to attend both sessions to gain the most out of the discussion.”
Reading the book in advance is strongly encouraged. The library is ordering copies of Cycle of Segregation, which we expect to be available to borrow by the first week of August.
Register once to attend both sessions (August 21 & 28). Please include your email address to receive event reminders.
World Languages Cafe @ East Columbia 50+ Center (in person)
Date: 08/26/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:45pm
Branch: Off Site
Age group: Teens, Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
The World Languages Cafe is now being held at the new East Columbia 50+ Center; 6610 Cradlerock way, Columbia, Md. 21045 on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
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, *Catonese, *Dutch, *French, German, Hebrew, *Irish Gaelic, *Italian, *Japanese, *Korean, *Portuguese, and *Spanish. (*Currently available at East Columbia Branch 50+ Center)
4th Tuesday of the month from 7 - 8:45 pm. at East Columbia Senior Center
2nd Thursday of the month from 7 - 8:45 pm at the Miller Branch Library
The World Languages Café is free, and registration is preferred, but not required. Please indicate in the registration comments field the language(s) 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 Library, or East Columbia 50+ Center, please email [email protected] or call 410-924-2226.
Teen Beyond Words
Date: 08/27/25Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Step into the fun and active world of Teen Beyond Words, a vibrant and inclusive monthly class designed to spark joy and ignite the imagination of young people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Participants will journey through five engaging stations, that include:
Motor Skills - where hands and hearts intertwine in activities that celebrate fine motor movement and coordination, fostering a sense of accomplishment
Arts & Crafts - where imagination and artistic vision come to life, giving voice to the unique expressions within
Cognitive Skills - where puzzles and cognitive challenges become stepping stones to triumph, nurturing intellectual growth and problem-solving prowess
Movement - where active games, physical challenges, and other movement exploration 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, Teen 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.
Welcome to a place where every participant is celebrated for the unique colors they bring to the canvas of life.
Participants may stay for as little or as long as they want.
Caregivers must stay with participants at all times.
The theme for this month is OUTER SPACE
FAM: Fun At Miller
English Conversation Class (in-person)
Date: 08/27/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Is English your second (or third) language? Practice speaking and listening in a small group.
Wednesdays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Cycle of Segregation: A Two-Part Book Discussion
Date: 08/28/25Time: 6:30pm - 7:45pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Cycle of Segregation: Book Discussion – Part Two
Two-part series: Aug 21 & Aug 28
Join Johns Hopkins University sociology professor Michael Bader and Columbia Housing Center Executive Director Jessamine Duvall for a special two-part community discussion of Cycle of Segregation: Social Processes and Residential Stratification by Maria Krysan and Kyle Crowder.
This groundbreaking book explores why residential segregation persists more than fifty years after the Fair Housing Act — and how everyday social networks and past neighborhood experiences can keep the cycle going.
In Part One (August 21), we'll unpack the book’s core ideas together, grounding them in the context of Columbia’s original vision of integration.
In Part Two (August 28), we’ll dive deeper into county-wide implications, reflect on what this research means for our neighborhoods today, and explore actions we can take to interrupt segregation’s self-perpetuating patterns in Howard County.
Whether you’re new to this topic or eager to connect the dots between history and the present, these conversations will help us see how we can shape a more inclusive future — together. Please plan to attend both sessions to gain the most out of the discussion.”
Reading the book in advance is strongly encouraged. The library is ordering copies of Cycle of Segregation, which we expect to be available to borrow by the first week of August.
This is the second session of the two-part series. Registration is only available through the August 21 session. If you haven’t registered yet, please register here for Part One to join both discussions.
Beyond Words Junior (ages 6-11) registered
Date: 09/03/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Ages 6-11 with adult. 60 min. Registration required.
Step into the fun and active world of Beyond Words Jr., a vibrant and inclusive monthly class designed to spark joy and ignite the imagination of young people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Participants will journey through five engaging stations, that include Motor Skills, Arts & Crafts, Cognitive Skills, Movement, and Sensory.
Participants may stay for as little or as long as they want.
Caregivers must stay with participants at all times.
The theme for this month is Fantasy and Fairy Tales.
Intermediate Korean (online)
Date: 09/03/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Prerequisite: Korean for Beginners (offered at the Miller Branch). Registration required. Ages 18+. Continue learning Korean in this 12-week class taught by Saea Oh, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and is certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). The class will expand on Korean culture, food, and basic Korean expressions, while you have fun in a small group setting. Attendance at 10 out of 12 classes is required.
Space is limited. In partnership with the Korean Education Center in Washington DC.
Class dates:
September 3, 10, 17, 24
October 8, 22, 29
November 5, 12, 19
December 3, 10
Bilingual Stories and Playtime (all ages with adult) TK
Date: 09/04/25Time: 5:30pm - 6:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Children, Everyone
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
All ages with adult; 30 min. Ticket required.
Únase a nosotros para cuentos, canciones y rimas bilingues. Seguido de un tiempo de juego. Join us for bilingual stories, songs and rhymes. Followed by a playtime.
Tickets will be available at the children's desk 15 minutes before class.
The Gathering: ERCC Salon Series
Date: 09/04/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:45pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
September Theme: Rooted and Rising
The Gathering, a new monthly salon series hosted at the Equity Resource Center & Collection, is inspired by the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance and 1860's Paris. Each month, community members come together to share conversation, creativity, and joy around the work of equity. With rotating co-hosts and themes, no two evenings are alike—expect poetry readings, music, storytelling, and space to reflect, connect, and be reenergized in the work of building a more just and equitable world.
In September, our inaugural salon is co-hosted by HCLS President & CEO Tonya Aikens and centers the theme Rooted and Rising—an invitation to honor where we come from while envisioning what’s possible. Together, we’ll reflect on the stories, people, and places that ground us, and explore the hopes and questions that guide our growth. Whether you’re a long-time changemaker or just beginning to chart your path, this gathering offers space to reconnect with your origins, your purpose, and a community rising with you.
Sips and bites compliments of the Friends and Foundation of HCLS.
Register to receive an event reminder.
Memory Cafe at Miller
Date: 09/06/25Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
The Memory Cafe at Miller provides a warm, inclusive space for individuals living with memory loss, their family, friends, and/or professional caregivers. Designed to promote connection, fun, and mental engagement, each monthly session features a mix of gentle cognitive exercises, themed reminiscence activities, music, arts & crafts, conversation, storytelling and more. The goal is to encourage social interaction, stimulate cognitive function, and offer emotional support in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Whether you're navigating memory changes yourself or caring for someone who is, the Memory Cafe offers a compassionate community where everyone is respected, included, and empowered to participate at their own pace. No diagnosis is necessary—just a desire to connect and share meaningful time with others. Light refreshments will be served.
Carers must stay with participants.
This month's class will take place in the Enchanted Garden (inclement weather backup space is the Avalon Room).
After that, the Memory Cafe will take place on the 1st Monday of each month from 2-4 pm in the Ellicott Room.
Adult Beyond Words
Date: 09/08/25Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
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.
The theme for this month is Fantasy/Ren Fest
Korean for Beginners
Date: 09/08/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Learn Korean in this 12-week class, taught by Saea Oh, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and is certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Learn the Korean alphabet, culture, food, and basic Korean expressions while you have fun in a small group setting. Adults, ages 18+.
Space is limited. In partnership with the Korean Education Center in Washington DC.
Class dates are Mondays, 6 - 7:30 pm:
September 8, 15, 29
October 6, 13, 27
November 3, 10, 17, 24
December 1, 8
Intermediate Korean (online)
Date: 09/10/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Prerequisite: Korean for Beginners (offered at the Miller Branch). Registration required. Ages 18+. Continue learning Korean in this 12-week class taught by Saea Oh, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and is certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). The class will expand on Korean culture, food, and basic Korean expressions, while you have fun in a small group setting. Attendance at 10 out of 12 classes is required.
Space is limited. In partnership with the Korean Education Center in Washington DC.
Class dates:
September 3, 10, 17, 24
October 8, 22, 29
November 5, 12, 19
December 3, 10
Korean for Beginners
Date: 09/15/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Learn Korean in this 12-week class, taught by Saea Oh, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and is certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Learn the Korean alphabet, culture, food, and basic Korean expressions while you have fun in a small group setting. Adults, ages 18+.
Space is limited. In partnership with the Korean Education Center in Washington DC.
Class dates are Mondays, 6 - 7:30 pm:
September 8, 15, 29
October 6, 13, 27
November 3, 10, 17, 24
December 1, 8
Asian American Literature Book Club (Online)
Date: 09/15/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Join our monthly discussion of Asian American literary titles.
- Jun. 16 Private Equity: a memoir by Carrie Sun
- Jul. 21 The Emma Project by Sonali Dev
- Aug 18 The Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi Kashiwai
- Sept. 15 The Liberators by E. J. Koh
- Oct. 20 Ghost Forest by Pik-Shuen Fung
- Nov. 17 Connie: A Memoir by Connie Chung
This book club meets online on the 3rd Monday of each month. In the event of a holiday closure, the meeting will be held on the 4th Monday instead.
Customers should place a hold request on the title using their library card in order to receive a copy to read before the discussion.
Availability of physical copies is not guaranteed.
Intermediate Korean (online)
Date: 09/17/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Prerequisite: Korean for Beginners (offered at the Miller Branch). Registration required. Ages 18+. Continue learning Korean in this 12-week class taught by Saea Oh, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and is certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). The class will expand on Korean culture, food, and basic Korean expressions, while you have fun in a small group setting. Attendance at 10 out of 12 classes is required.
Space is limited. In partnership with the Korean Education Center in Washington DC.
Class dates:
September 3, 10, 17, 24
October 8, 22, 29
November 5, 12, 19
December 3, 10
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration (All ages) TK
Date: 09/20/25Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Children, Everyone
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Families / All ages. 90 minutes. Ticket required. Ticket available 15 minutes before the event.
¡Celebremos el mes de la Herencia Hispana con bailes tradicionales, presentaciones, música y comida tradicional! ¡Únete a esta emocionante celebración!
Let's celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with dance, musical performances and traditional foods! Join us for this exciting celebration!
This is part of HCLS' Hispanic Heritage Month series. Click here for the full schedule of classes and events for all ages.
Los Veteranos: Latinos in World War II
Date: 09/22/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Teens, Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
An important part of U.S. history long before WWII, the war gave Latinos new opportunities and presented them with new challenges. Because Latinos did not serve in segregated units, as African Americans did, their WWII history is sometimes overlooked. Was that history unique, and if so, how? Students learn about Latino WWII heroes and average soldiers, as well as issues of ethnicity and acculturation on the Home Front. Presented by the National WWII Museum.
This is part of HCLS' Hispanic Heritage Month series. Click here for the full schedule of classes and events for all ages.
World Languages Cafe @ East Columbia 50+ Center (in person)
Date: 09/23/25Time: 7:00pm - 8:45pm
Branch: Off Site
Age group: Teens, Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
The World Languages Cafe is now being held at the new East Columbia 50+ Center; 6610 Cradlerock way, Columbia, Md. 21045 on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
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, *Catonese, *Dutch, *French, German, Hebrew, *Irish Gaelic, *Italian, *Japanese, *Korean, *Portuguese, and *Spanish. (*Currently available at East Columbia Branch 50+ Center)
4th Tuesday of the month from 7 - 8:45 pm. at East Columbia Senior Center
2nd Thursday of the month from 7 - 8:45 pm at the Miller Branch Library
The World Languages Café is free, and registration is preferred, but not required. Please indicate in the registration comments field the language(s) 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 Library, or East Columbia 50+ Center, please email [email protected] or call 410-924-2226.
Teen Beyond Words
Date: 09/24/25Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:
Step into the fun and active world of Teen Beyond Words, a vibrant and inclusive monthly class designed to spark joy and ignite the imagination of young people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Participants will journey through five engaging stations, that include:
Motor Skills - where hands and hearts intertwine in activities that celebrate fine motor movement and coordination, fostering a sense of accomplishment
Arts & Crafts - where imagination and artistic vision come to life, giving voice to the unique expressions within
Cognitive Skills - where puzzles and cognitive challenges become stepping stones to triumph, nurturing intellectual growth and problem-solving prowess
Movement - where active games, physical challenges, and other movement exploration 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, Teen 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.
Welcome to a place where every participant is celebrated for the unique colors they bring to the canvas of life.
Participants may stay for as little or as long as they want.
Caregivers must stay with participants at all times.
The theme for this month is Fantasy/Ren Fest
FAM: Fun At Miller
Intermediate Korean (online)
Date: 09/24/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Prerequisite: Korean for Beginners (offered at the Miller Branch). Registration required. Ages 18+. Continue learning Korean in this 12-week class taught by Saea Oh, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and is certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). The class will expand on Korean culture, food, and basic Korean expressions, while you have fun in a small group setting. Attendance at 10 out of 12 classes is required.
Space is limited. In partnership with the Korean Education Center in Washington DC.
Class dates:
September 3, 10, 17, 24
October 8, 22, 29
November 5, 12, 19
December 3, 10
Teen Beyond Words at East Columbia Branch (Ages 11-17)
Date: 09/24/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
For Teens Ages 11-17 with learning/developmental disabilities.
Come and participate at 5 different activity stations.
This month’s theme: FANTASY & FAIRY TALES
Registration is required.
Korean for Beginners
Date: 09/29/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Learn Korean in this 12-week class, taught by Saea Oh, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and is certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Learn the Korean alphabet, culture, food, and basic Korean expressions while you have fun in a small group setting. Adults, ages 18+.
Space is limited. In partnership with the Korean Education Center in Washington DC.
Class dates are Mondays, 6 - 7:30 pm:
September 8, 15, 29
October 6, 13, 27
November 3, 10, 17, 24
December 1, 8
The Gathering: ERCC Salon Series
Date: 09/30/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:45pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
October Theme: Everyday Bravery (we are meeting a few days early to honor Yom Kippur)
The Gathering, a new monthly salon series hosted at the Equity Resource Center & Collection, is inspired by the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance and 1860's Paris. Each month, community members come together to share conversation, creativity, and joy around the work of equity. With rotating co-hosts and themes, no two evenings are alike—expect poetry readings, music, storytelling, and space to reflect, connect, and be reenergized in the work of building a more just and equitable world.
This month, we gather around the theme Everyday Bravery, co-hosted by Dinorah Cader, Lay Leader for Hispanic Social Justice Ministry at St. John the Evangelist in Columbia. This evening uplifts the quiet courage of those who leave behind the familiar in search of safety, opportunity, and dignity—often without recognition or rest. Through story, art, and shared reflection, we will celebrate the strength found in family, faith, culture, and community, and the ways everyday acts of resilience shape our collective future.
Sips and bites compliments of The Friends and Foundation of HCLS.
Register to receive an email reminder.
Bilingual Stories and Playtime (all ages with adult) TK
Date: 10/02/25Time: 5:30pm - 6:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Children, Everyone
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
All ages with adult; 30 min. Ticket required.
Únase a nosotros para cuentos, canciones y rimas bilingues. Seguido de un tiempo de juego. Join us for bilingual stories, songs and rhymes. Followed by a playtime.
Tickets will be available at the children's desk 15 minutes before class.
Memory Cafe @ Miller
Date: 10/06/25Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
The Memory Cafe provides a warm, inclusive space for individuals living with memory loss, their caregivers, family members, etc. Designed to promote connection, fun, and mental engagement, each monthly session features a mix of gentle memory exercises, themed reminiscence activities, music, art, conversation, and/or storytelling. The goal is to encourage social interaction, stimulate cognitive function, and offer emotional support in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Whether you're navigating memory changes yourself or caring for someone who is, the Memory Cafe offers a compassionate community where everyone is respected, included, and empowered to participate at their own pace. No diagnosis is necessary—just a desire to connect and share meaningful time with others. Light refreshments will be served.
Caregivers must stay with participants.
Korean for Beginners
Date: 10/06/25Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:
Learn Korean in this 12-week class, taught by Saea Oh, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and is certified in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Learn the Korean alphabet, culture, food, and basic Korean expressions while you have fun in a small group setting. Adults, ages 18+.
Space is limited. In partnership with the Korean Education Center in Washington DC.
Class dates are Mondays, 6 - 7:30 pm:
September 8, 15, 29
October 6, 13, 27
November 3, 10, 17, 24
December 1, 8
