Brave Events

There are 55 upcoming classes.

International Grocery Store Tour - Rehoboth Ethiopian Café and Market

Date: 01/22/25
Time: 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Branch: Off Site
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

The International Grocery Store tour in June will highlight the cuisine of Ethiopia.

A volunteer tour guide will lead a group of 10 participants on a tour of Rehoboth Ethiopian Café and Market (9400 Snowden River Parkway #113, Columbia) on Wednesday, Jan 22 2025 from 3-4pm. Participants will receive recipes of Ethiopian dishes and will learn what the ingredients are and where to find them in the grocery store.

We are also seeking volunteers who are interested in sharing their cultural recipes and to lead a tour of a grocery store where the ingredients can be purchased. If you have a favored Chinese, Guatemalan, Indian, Irish, Jamaican, Mexican, Turkish or other global recipe you would like to share and lead a tour, please contact [email protected] or (410- 924-2226). We welcome all and everyone to celebrate the wonderful, diverse foods and cultures represented in Columbia and Howard County!

Teen Beyond Words

Date: 01/22/25
Time: 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 SNOW

FAM: Fun At Miller

English Conversation Class (in-person)

Date: 01/22/25
Time: 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- 8:30 pm

The Connections Series: How to Slay School When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

Date: 01/23/25
Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Connections is a health & wellness series of 6 workshops for young people in grades 6 - 12. It will be conducted every other Thursday by Therapeutic Connections and each workshop will feature a different wellness topic. You must register for each workshop individually - signing up once does not guarantee you a seat in the others.

This week's topic is How to Slay School When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

Feeling overwhelmed by schoolwork, deadlines, and expectations? You’re not alone! Come join us for a fun and interactive workshop designed to help students succeed by balancing school and self-care. Snacks & water will be served!

It is a small registered class - NO DROP-INS.

FAM - Fun At Miller

Bilingual Stories and Playtime (all ages with adult) TK

Date: 01/23/25
Time: 6:30pm - 7:00pm
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.

Beyond Words at East Columbia Branch

Date: 01/24/25
Time: 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:

Step into the fun and active world of 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

Education - where learning takes center stage featuring a focus on counting, letter/word recognition, basic math, or a science activity

With a new theme and different stations each month, 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 January is "Snow"

*Please note that there will not be a Beyond Words class at ECO for the month of February.

*Each location will offer the same number of stations, but activities will vary between branches

Reads of Acceptance (Online)

Date: 01/27/25
Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Discuss LGBTQ-related books and make new friends in a queer- & trans-affirming group setting. All identities and all ages (18+) are welcome.

Copies of the discussion title are available for pick-up from the Central Branch; ask for a copy at the Customer Service desk.

This month's book will be Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune.

Asian American Literature Book Club (Online)

Date: 01/27/25
Time: 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.

Sept.16 2024 Rise: A Pop History of Asian America from the Nineties to Now by Jeff Yang
Oct. 21 2024 The Mountains Sing by Nguyẽ̂n Phan Qué̂ Mai
Nov. 18 2024 On the noodle road : from Beijing to Rome, with love and pasta by Jen Lin-Liu
Dec. 16 2024 Stay True: a memoir by Hua Hsu
Jan. 27 2025 Lies and Weddings: a novel by Kevin Kwan
Feb. 24 2025 Happiness Falls by Angie Kim

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.

World Languages Cafe @ East Columbia 50+ Center (in person)

Date: 01/28/25
Time: 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.

English Conversation Class (in-person)

Date: 01/29/25
Time: 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

Bilingual Stories and Playtime (all ages with adult) TK

Date: 01/30/25
Time: 6:30pm - 7:00pm
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.

Teen Action Board (TAB) Meeting

Date: 02/01/25
Time: 10:30am - 12:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

About the Teen Action Board:

HCLS Miller Teen Action Board is open to teens ages 11-18 residing in Howard County and will meet on one Saturday per month from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm.

Why join the Teen Action Board?

Make new friends
Suggest monthly book displays, books, movies, etc. for the library
Help plan and execute programs, classes, and events for teens
Gain volunteer experience that looks great on a resume

What is expected of Teen Action Board members?

Attendance at monthly meetings or contacting the TAB coordinator if you are unable to come
Being an active participant in the group
Attendance at most of the teen events we plan

How to apply:
1. Fill out the application form at https://bit.ly/MillerTABApp or by paper application in our Teen Area.

2. Applicants will be contacted via email or phone if invited to become a member.
3. NOTE: Simply filling out the application does not guarantee acceptance to the TAB, but your application will be kept on file for one year.

Our next meeting will be on March 15th

FAM - Fun At Miller

Recipe Exchange: Ethiopian Food

Date: 02/01/25
Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Savage Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Attention, Foodies! Do you find yourself looking for new creative ways to spice up your cooking repertoire? Searching for new tried-and-true recipes to add to your own skill set as well as easy, dependable recipes that your family will love? We’ll discuss some notable Ethiopian chefs who are making their mark on cuisine, discuss their recipes, and then share our own. Meet up with other foodies and indulge your culinary curiosity at our recipe exchange!

Food will be provided for sampling.

Registration is optional. Register if you wish to receive email reminders and updates about this class and related events. All seating is first-come, first-served.

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

Veterans Book Group 2025 (Online)

Date: 02/02/25
Time: 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
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 2 - June 1 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.

Reading Selections:

February 2: Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor by Clinton Romesha

March 2: The Fine Art of Camouflage by Lauren Kay Johnson

April 6: The Special Prisoner by Jim Lehrer

May 4: Attack on the Liberty: The Untold Story of Israel's Deadly 1967 Assault on a U.S. Spy Ship by James Scott

June 1: In Pharaoh’s Army: Memories of the Lost War by Tobias Wolff

Image credit: Generated using AI

Questions? Please email [email protected].

Makeup is for Everyone: Gender-Affirming Contouring

Date: 02/04/25
Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Central Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Learn how to transform your face through the art of contouring!

We’ll discuss the different uses of this makeup technique before diving into a demonstration and hands-on workshop. Both masculine and feminine contouring techniques will be demonstrated, taught by a trans/non-binary instructor.

Supplies will be provided for the first eight registrants. Wait-listed registrants are welcome to attend if you'd like to bring your own makeup or just observe.

Open to anyone looking to explore makeup in a safe space; must be 18+ to participate.

Interested in more makeup skills? Check out the next class in this series, Understanding Foundation & Color Theory.

English Conversation Class (in-person)

Date: 02/05/25
Time: 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 - 8:30 pm

The Connections Series: Mental Health & Wellness Workshop

Date: 02/06/25
Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Connections is a mental wellness series of 6 workshops for young people in grades 9 - 12. It will be conducted every other Thursday by Therapeutic Connections and each workshop will feature a different mental wellness topic. You must register for each workshop individually - signing up once does not guarantee you a seat in the others.

This week's topic is TBD (to be determined).

It is a small registered class - NO DROP-INS.

FAM - Fun At Miller

Bilingual Stories and Playtime (all ages with adult) TK

Date: 02/06/25
Time: 6:30pm - 7:00pm
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.

Afrofuturism Art Lab: Learn & Create!

Date: 02/08/25
Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Ages 11-18 | Walk-in, feel free to register for a reminder.

What is Afrofuturism? Explore this multimedia concept, then create your own related art work. Your work may be chosen for Miller's Afrofuturism Student Art Contest & Exhibit for Black History Month. All materials supplied, but feel free to bring anything you would like.

This event is part of Miller's Afrofuturism Series for Black History Month, see other events HERE. Visit Miller between February 20-28, to view the Afrofuturism Student Art Contest & Exhibit.

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

FAM: Fun at Miller

Adult Beyond Words

Date: 02/10/25
Time: 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 HEART

Marlena Jareaux: Pre-Civil War African-American History in Howard County

Date: 02/10/25
Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Join researcher and historian Marlena Jareaux as she shares the results of years of her research. Marlena Jareaux is the Executive Director of Howard County Lynching Truth & Reconciliation, Inc., and her archival research has revealed some narrative changing information about what life was really like for Black and Mulatto people here in Howard County, both free and enslaved.

Jareaux's research was funded in part by a Maryland Heritage Areas Authority grant.

This free event is co-sponsored by the Howard County Library System and the Howard County Historical Society.

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

Deaf President Now: Insights from “Controlling Our Destiny,” by Phil W. Bravin, with special guest, Greg Hlibok (Online)

Date: 02/12/25
Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

A Contemporary Conversation With Phil Bravin and Special Guest Greg Hlibok

Join the Deaf Culture Digital Library (DCDL) and the Howard County Association of the Deaf (HCAD) for an engaging webinar featuring Deaf author Phil Bravin and special guest Greg Hlibok.

Phil Bravin, who served on the board of trustees during the historic Deaf President Now (DPN) movement in 1988, will share his insights into this watershed moment in Deaf history—a pivotal event that sparked lasting advocacy efforts within the Deaf community.

Joining him is Greg Hlibok, the student body president during the DPN movement, who brings a unique perspective on the protests and their broader impact. Together, they’ll offer an inspiring look into this historic movement and its continued relevance today.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with history and hear firsthand from two individuals who played a vital role in shaping it.

This webinar is especially timely, coinciding with the release of a major documentary about the DPN movement, produced by Nyle DiMarco, premiering January 28 on Sundance Now. Click this link to view Nyle’s video announcement.

Click here to register

This event is presented by Deaf Culture Digital Library (DCDL) and the Howard County Association of the Deaf (HCAD) with promotional support from Howard County Library System.

English Conversation Class (in-person)

Date: 02/12/25
Time: 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 - 8:30 pm

World Languages Cafe

Date: 02/13/25
Time: 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 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.

Afrofuturism Teen Art Contest & Exhibit

Date: 02/18/25
Time: 12:00am - 12:00am
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Grades 8-12 | CALLING ALL ARTISTS!

Submit your art and possible win a $50 Target Gift Card!

In celebration of Black History Month, showcase your creativity and explore the themes of Afrofuturism.

Your artwork could be featured in our Afrofuturism Art Exhibit, which coincides with a special author visit from author Lamar Giles. The winning artist, voted on my our staff, will win a $50 gift card and be recognized at our Lamar Giles author event on February 24 and 6pm.

Afrofuturism is a cultural, artistic, and intellectual movement that combines science fiction, fantasy, and speculative storytelling with themes of African and African American culture, heritage, and history. It envisions an empowered future for African Americans.

Participation allows you to contribute to an important conversation about representation and empowerment. We look forward to seeing your imagination come to life in this exciting and meaningful project.

CONTEST DETAILS

Who: For students in grades 8 -12
What: Painting, drawing, digital art, or mixed media, no larger than 16”x20”.

Themes to Explore

Futuristic worlds inspired by African and African American culture
Black joy, empowerment, and resilience
Speculative or imaginative storytelling through art

Important dates

Deadline: Monday, February 18
Display: February 20 - 28, 2025.
Pick up: March 7 - 31

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Deadline: Monday, February 18, 2025 by 9 pm

Drop off your art addressed to: Cheryl Grimes, at Miller Branch: 9421 Frederick Road, Ellicott City, 21042. **Students MUST INCLUDE A COMPLETED RELEASE FORM, found on this page under "Attachments".

Pick Up: If your artwork is selected for our exhibit, you can pick it up March 7 - 31.

For questions or more information, contact Cheryl Grimes at [email protected]

INSPIRATION

Movies

Black Panther
See you Yesterday,
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Books

The Getaway & Ruin Road by Lamar Giles
The Beast Made of Night by Tochi Onyebuchi
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
The Belles by Dhonielle Clayton
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko
Shuri: A Black Panther Novel by Nic Stone
Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor

RUBRIC

Use these guidelines to keep your artwork focused on the theme of the exhibit. We will only accept artwork that meets the following criteria.

Theme Alignment: The artwork clearly represents Afrofuturism, incorporating science fiction, fantasy, or speculative storytelling with themes of African and African American culture, heritage, and history.

Creativity and Originality: The piece demonstrates unique and imaginative ideas that align with the exhibition’s celebration of black joy, resilience, and empowerment.

Cultural and Social Relevance: The submission celebrates or uplifts black perspectives, joy, and identity, aligning with the goals of Black History Month.

Completeness & Presentation and Readiness: The artwork appears thoughtfully completed, and appropriately prepared for display (e.g., clean, labeled, ready to hang or display).

Size: Art must be no larger than 16”x20”

We are looking forward to displaying your artwork at Miller!

For questions or more information, contact Cheryl Grimes at [email protected]

This event is part of Miller's Afrofuturism Series for Black History Month, see other events HERE.

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

FAM=Fun at Miller

Author Works: The Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray

Date: 02/18/25
Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

On the 100th Anniversary of the Harlem Renaissance
Meet the Heartbeat of its Black Literary Revolution

100 years after the Harlem Renaissance, a new novel profiles the “literary midwife” who discovered and nurtured literary giants like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston…all while having an affair and love story with civil rights legend W. E. B. Du Bois.

“A page turner and history lesson at once, Harlem Rhapsody reminds us that our stories are our generational wealth— this book and the real lives that inspired it.”—Tayari Jones, New York Times bestselling author of An American Marriage

HARLEM RHAPSODY brings readers into glittering 1920’s Harlem through the lens of Jessie Redmon Fauset, the heartbeat of its literary revolution. Not only did Jessie discover and nurture icons like Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, Nella Larsen and Zora Neale Hurston. She was also caught up in a decade-long affair and “parallel marriage” with the professor and civil rights activist W. E. B. Du Bois—also her boss in her role as the literary editor of the NAACP’s The Crisis magazine.

In the 1920s, Harlem flourished as a place of Black pride. As the novel follows Fauset’s career, the reader is privy to both the brilliant creativity happening at this time while simultaneously understanding the experience of a Black woman who had to combat incredible sexism and racism to succeed.

Another of Jessie’s most complex yet loving relationships was with her stepmother, Isabella Huff, who was both Jewish and a staunch integrationist. Isabella deeply resented her daughter’s involvement with a married man. But she reveled in Jessie’s influence as someone using words to fight racism. Before the Harlem Renaissance, many if not all Black stories had been written by white writers. In The Crisis, Jessie had finally made available a space for Black writers to publish their own stories.

About the Author:

With almost three million books in print, NAACP Image Award-winning author Victoria Christopher Murray is one of the country’s top Black contemporary writers. Her prominence skyrocketed with recent forays into the inner lives and stories of underappreciated Black women. As the co-author with Marie Benedict of the breakout hits and New York Times bestsellers The Personal Librarian and The First Ladies, she traced the lives of Belle de Costa Greene, J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian, and the Black civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune.

Books will be available for purchase at the event, and the author will be signing books post-event.

Please register with an email address to receive an immediate registration confirmation.

English Conversation Class (in-person)

Date: 02/19/25
Time: 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 - 8:30 pm

African American Read-In (all ages)

Date: 02/20/25
Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Branch: Elkridge Branch
Age group: Children, Everyone
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Join us to honor Black History Month by participating in the National African American Read-In. Library staff will be at the children's bubble wall taking turns reading books by African American authors. Listen for just one story, or stick around for more!

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

What is Afrofuturism with Kevin Strait, NMAAHC Curator (ONLINE)

Date: 02/20/25
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Teens, Adults, Everyone
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

All ages | Register with an email address for the Zoom link.

Want to watch with others? Join the in-person WATCH PARTY at Miller Branch.

What is Afrofuturism?

Museum curator at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, Kevin Strait, discusses his past exhibit "Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures", shares the history of Afrofuturism, and how it "has evolved as a concept, philosophy, multimedia genre, aesthetic, and cultural movement. It explores Black identity, agency, and freedom through art and creative works that envision liberated futures for Black life." - NMAAHC

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

About the presenter:

Kevin Strait is a museum curator at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. Since 2010, he has worked in the museum’s Office of Curatorial Affairs and was part of the core team that acquired objects and developed content for several of the museum’s permanent exhibitions and interpretive spaces. He currently stewards the NMAAHC's collections related to 20th century political and social history and African American popular culture. He curated the temporary exhibition, Afrofuturism - A History of Black Futures, the 2023 winner of the Smithsonian's Excellence in Exhibitions Award and is the co-editor of the exhibition's award-winning companion publication. Strait is a graduate of Wesleyan University and received his Ph.D. in American Studies from the George Washington University.

What is Afrofuturism with Kevin Strait, NMAAHC Curator | Hybrid Watch Party

Date: 02/20/25
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens, Adults, Everyone
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

All ages | Registration suggested, walk-ins welcome while space allows. Want to watch with others? Come to Miller's live watch party.

*This is an IN PERSON "watch party" at Miller for the virtual Zoom event. Prefer to attend online? Register here for the Zoom link.

What is Afrofuturism?

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

About the author:

The Connections Series: Mental Health & Wellness Workshop

Date: 02/20/25
Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

This week's topic is TBD (to be determined).

It is a small registered class - NO DROP-INS.

FAM - Fun At Miller

Little Learners Celebrates Heroines of History: Black Women who Changed the World (ages 2-5 with adult) TK

Date: 02/24/25
Time: 10:30am - 11:15am
Branch: East Columbia Branch
Age group: Children
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description:

Ages 2-5 with adult. 45 minutes.

Explore and celebrate the lives of amazing women in Black history. Dance, sing and create as you discover how these heroes shaped the world and how you can be a hero, too!

Ticket required. Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

Author Event: Lamar Giles - author of The Getaway

Date: 02/24/25
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens, Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Ages 14 and up | Registration suggested, walk-ins welcome while space allows.

“Timely, thrilling, and gripping from start to finish. An absolute page-turner.” - Karen M. McManus, #1 New York Times bestselling author of One of Us Is Lying

Founding member of We Need Diverse Books, Lamar Giles, discusses his novel, The Getaway, a HCLS 2024 Summer Reading book (currently in development for TV), and his journey as a writer, while engaging in a Q&A moderated by local teens.

Books will be available for purchase at the event, and the author will be signing books post-event.

See Lamar Giles' books in our catalogue here.

This session is part of HCLS' Black History Month series. Please click here for the complete schedule of classes and events.

Praise for The Getaway:

"With elements of adventure, science fiction, horror, and even a bit of romance in a broken world, Giles keeps readers wondering who can and cannot be trusted throughout this page-turning novel." — Horn Book

“The Getaway grabbed me from page one and didn’t let go. I was immediately fascinated and disturbed by the fictional Karloff Country. You too will be lured in and then horrified by the truth behind those perfect customer service smiles . .” —Malinda Lo, New York Times bestselling author of Last Night at the Telegraph Club

“Hold tight: You’ll want to stay on this nightmarish roller coaster till the end.” — Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review)

About the author:

Lamar Giles is a well-published author and a founding member of We Need Diverse Books. His most recent novels include NOT SO PURE AND SIMPLE his first Contemporary Coming-of-Age Story (HarperTeen/HarperCollins) and Middle-Grade Fantasy THE LAST MIRROR ON THE LEFT (Versify/HMH), the sequel to his 2019 hit THE LAST LAST-DAY-OF-SUMMER.

Lamar is a three-time Edgar Award finalist in the YA category, for his debut YA thriller FAKE ID (HarperCollins, 2014), his second YA thriller, ENDANGERED (HarperCollins, 2015), and his MG fantasy, EPIC ELLISONS: COSMOS CAMP (Versify/HarperCollins, 2023). His third and fourth YA thrillers, OVERTURNED (Scholastic, 2017) and SPIN (Scholastic, 2019), as well as his middle-grade debut THE LAST LAST-DAY-OF-SUMMER received glowing New York Times reviews, and were named to multiple Best Of lists, including Time Magazine, Kirkus Reviews, and Amazon.

Lamar is the editor of the We Need Diverse Books YA short story anthology FRESH INK (Random House, 2018), and a contributor to many YA and middle-grade anthologies including THREE SIDES OF A HEART (HarperCollins, 2017), BLACK ENOUGH: STORIES OF BEING YOUNG & BLACK IN AMERICA (HarperCollins / Balzer & Bray, 2019), THE HERO NEXT DOOR (Random House, 2019), HIS HIDEOUS HEART (Flatiron Books, 2019) and SUPER PUZZLETASTIC MYSTERIES (HarperCollins, 2020). He has published several short stories for adults.

FAM: Fun at Miller

Reads of Acceptance (Online)

Date: 02/24/25
Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Branch: Online Branch
Age group: Adults
Program type: Race, Equity & Inclusion
Description:

Discuss LGBTQ-related books and make new friends in a queer- & trans-affirming group setting. All identities and all ages (18+) are welcome.

Copies of the discussion title are available for pick-up from the Central Branch; ask for a copy at the Customer Service desk.

This month's book will be Troublemaker for Justice: The Story of Bayard Rustin, the Man Behind the March on Washington.

Optional titles for further learning:

This is part of HCLS' Black History Month celebration series. Click here for a full list of classes and events for all ages!

Asian American Literature Book Club (Online)

Date: 02/24/25
Time: 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.

Dec. 16 2024 Stay True: a memoir by Hua Hsu
Jan. 27 2025 Lies and Weddings: a novel by Kevin Kwan
Feb. 24 2025 Happiness Falls by Angie Kim
Mar. 17 2025 Late Bloomers by Deepa Varadarajan
Apr. 21 2025 Sign, Gone: A Misfit's Memoir of Great Books, Punk Rock, and the Fight to Fit in by Phuc Tran
May 19 Memory Piece by Lisa Ko

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.

World Languages Cafe @ East Columbia 50+ Center (in person)

Date: 02/25/25
Time: 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.

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+.

Teen Beyond Words

Date: 02/26/25
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Branch: Miller Branch
Age group: Teens
Program type: Tech Skills or STEAM
Description: