Currently Registering Programs

Dungeons & Dragons Online
Online
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 - 4:00pm - 6:30pm
Ages: 12 - 17
Registration and more information
Join us for a session of Dungeons & Dragons played entirely online! Pre-generated characters will be available, and registrants will meet on Zoom the day before to become familiar with any websites used. This session is for beginners and avid players alike.

Dungeons & Dragons is a trademark of Wizards of the Coast LLC in the United States and other countries. © 2015 Wizards. All Rights Reserved.

Measuring the Body for Garment Construction and Fashion Design
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Students will learn to sequentially measure and record body measurements to determine sizing for commercial pattern use and/or plotting for pattern drafting. Come with a friend and measure each other. All materials provided.

This workshop is the prerequisite for the Drafting a Bodice Block Pattern class.

Diamond Painting
Taneytown Branch
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a monthly session of diamond painting! We'll have a new project each month, and no experience is necessary!  

Creative Crudité
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will learn how to make a beautiful crudité platter with delicious dips. 

Senior Planet: Mindfulness Apps
North Carroll Branch
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Plug into these apps to help you unplug from everything else! Need to unwind? Here's some tech for the mind with benefits such as reducing anxiety, improving memory, and lowering blood pressure. Senior Planet programs are provided in cooperation with the Carroll Tech Council.

Practical Fusion 360
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Digital design using tools such as Fusion 360 is a fundamental skill that unlocks the full potential of maker technologies such as 3D printing and many others that depend on a digital file to define the shape and size of a real-world object to be made. This introductory seminar will explore the Fusion 360 design software, examine resources for continued learning, and get hands-on experience. Fusion 360 is professional-level software, and participants should be proficient in using a Windows PC.

Picnic Concert Series: Ben Sherman Duo
Finksburg Branch
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: All Ages
Registration and more information
Join us at the Finksburg Branch Garden for this music event! Pack a picnic, spread a blanket, and enjoy the cool sounds of local bands. Artists are encouraged to bring supplies and create artwork during the golden hour. Tonight's event features the Ben Sherman Duo. Ben is the master of many styles on the guitar, playing everything from classical to classic rock during his 30+ year musical career. In the event of rain, this concert will be in our Large Meeting Room.

Creating Jewelry with Makerspace Technology
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 23, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn about the types of jewelry you can make with our makerspace technology. We will review the available equipment, selecting appropriate materials, and setting up design files for success. Using Adobe Illustrator and the Epilog Fusion Pro laser, participants will make either a pair of earrings or a necklace to take home. This is an introductory level program; no previous experience with design software or laser cutting (or certification) is required. 

Crazy for Crafting
North Carroll Branch
Thursday, May 23, 2024 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for some fun and easy craft projects each month. No experience or creative skills are needed. Bring a friend or meet new people who also enjoy crafting.

Let's Start a Podcast!
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 23, 2024 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Do you want to get into podcasting but don't know where to start? This is the class for you! We will cover the basics of the different recording software we offer, along with an introduction to the equipment we provide in the Audio/Video Lab. 

Gentle Yoga
Eldersburg Branch
Thursday, May 23, 2024 - 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This gentle yoga class allows students of various abilities and physical conditions to develop their yoga practice comfortably. Yoga has many appealing aspects, including increased flexibility, relaxation, strength, improved balance, stress, and pain relief. No experience is necessary. Please wear comfortable clothing; bring a mat and a blanket.

Card Kit Crafty Box
Finksburg Branch
Friday, May 24, 2024 - 9:00am - 9:45am
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
What is a Card Kit Box? It's a box full of fun for crafty adults! Register to pick up a box containing library materials for crafty inspiration, including 2 rubber stamp sets, 2 card bases with envelopes, an ink pad, and other crafty extras to help unleash your creativity. Please return the stamp sets, ink pad, and box when you are done crafting. Registered attendees will receive a form via email to help Finksburg staff match you with your preferred crafty supplies.

Quilt Inspired Tea Sandwiches
Exploration Commons
Friday, May 24, 2024 - 11:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to make quilt-inspired tea sandwiches as part of Quilting Bees and Afternoon Teas. We'll make several different recipes featuring tips, tricks, and presentation ideas for lovely tea sandwiches to enjoy with a cup of freshly brewed tea. Registration opens May 10^th at 9 AM. Limited to 20 attendees, the cost is $10 per person.

In addition to this program, Carroll County Farm Museum's Laura Rogers will discuss their newest quilt exhibit and showcase quilts from the Museum's collection from 10-11 AM or 1-2 PM in the large meeting room. To learn more about the Carroll County Farm Museum and their quilts, visit https://carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org/. 

Presented by the Teaching Kitchen at Exploration Commons at 50 East in conjunction with the Carroll County Farm Museum. 

 

Tea Tasting & Talk
Exploration Commons
Friday, May 24, 2024 - 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a tea talk and tasting as part of Quilting Bees and Afternoon Teas. Learn to steep the perfect pot of tea and enjoy an educational talk on tea types, and the role teas have played in history. Registration opens May 10 at 9 AM. Limited to 20 attendees. There is no cost for this program.

In addition to this program, Carroll County Farm Museum's Laura Rogers will discuss their newest quilt exhibit and showcase quilts from the Museum's collection from 10-11 AM or 1-2 PM in the large meeting room. To learn more about the Carroll County Farm Museum and their quilts, visit https://carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org/. 

Presented by the Teaching Kitchen at Exploration Commons at 50 East in conjunction with the Carroll County Farm Museum. 

Volunteer Opportunity at the Finksburg Branch Garden
Finksburg Branch
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 9:00am - 11:00am
Ages: 14 - 17
Registration and more information
Are you in need of service hours? Do you like working outside and don't mind getting your hands dirty? If so, this may be the perfect volunteer opportunity for you! We are looking for students ages 14 - 17 to assist our local Master Gardeners with the maintenance of the Finksburg Branch Garden. Please dress appropriately, wear sunscreen, and bring water. Garden clean-up days are weather-dependent. 

Adobe Illustrator: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a comprehensive two-session Adobe Illustrator program where we further explore the software's capabilities and build on our existing knowledge. Because this class explores more advanced functionality, it is strongly recommended that participants take our Intro to Adobe Illustrator class or complete the following prerequisite videos before the class.

• Get to Know Illustrator
• Create and Edit Shapes
• Transform and Edit Artwork

Super Mario Escape Room
Taneytown Branch
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 6 - 11
Registration and more information
Oh no, Bowser has you trapped in a room! Will you be able to work together to find the clues and solve the puzzles to get out in time to rescue Princess Peach in this Super Mario-themed escape room? 

May Flowers Paint Party Jr.
Westminster Branch
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 11:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: 8 - 17
Registration and more information
In this junior paint party, our young artists will have an opportunity to paint a flower masterpiece of their own on a small canvas to help usher in spring. Adults are welcome to observe, but supplies will be limited to youth participants.

Crafty Creations: Bedazzled Bookmarks
Mount Airy Branch
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
What do you do with a hardback book that you no longer want? Turn it into bookmarks! Join us as we turn hardbacks into decorated bookmarks with dazzling results. All supplies will be provided. 

Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This beginner-level laser cutter class will walk you through design basics, machine use, and safety procedures. At the instructor's discretion, customers who successfully complete this program will be certified to use Exploration Commons' Fusion Pro and Fusion Edge laser cutters.

Customers aged 12 to 15 who complete their certification are required to have a certified adult with them to use the laser independently.

Sewing Skills: Fabric Cutting
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to use traditional and updated techniques and tools for preparing and cutting fabric. You will leave with the confidence to use a rotary cutter and mat as well as traditional cutting tools. This is a beginner-friendly class; no sewing experience is required.

ServSafe® Food Handler Course
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The ServSafe^® Food Handler course taught by a Certified ServSafe^® Instructor provides basic food safety knowledge. This two-hour class covers the following five key areas: Basic Food Safety, Personal Hygiene, Cross Contamination and Allergens, Time and Temperature, and Cleaning and Sanitizing. At the end of the class, participants will receive a certificate after completing a 40-question assessment.
_{©2018 National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (National Restaurant Association). All rights reserved. ServSafe is a trademark of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. National Restaurant Association® and the arc design are trademarks of the National Restaurant Association.}

Diverse Voices Book Club: Yellowface
Westminster Branch
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a monthly book discussion focusing on a diverse author's work. Each month, we will select a young adult or adult title written by an author from a diverse background so we can learn from others' perspectives. Our May selection is Yellowface by R. F. Kuang. Attendees are welcome to attend in person at CCPL's Westminster Branch or virtually through Zoom.

Practical Fusion 360
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Digital design using tools such as Fusion 360 is a fundamental skill that unlocks the full potential of maker technologies such as 3D printing and many others that depend on a digital file to define the shape and size of a real-world object to be made. This introductory seminar will explore the Fusion 360 design software, examine resources for continued learning, and get hands-on experience. Fusion 360 is professional-level software, and participants should be proficient in using a Windows PC.

Let's Get Crafty
Taneytown Branch
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Come craft with us! We will have a fun and EASY craft project each month. No experience or creative skills are needed! Bring a friend and craft together, or meet new people with a shared love of crafting.  

Spring Healthy Cooking Series: Mediterranean Diet
North Carroll Branch
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
May is National Mediterranean Diet Month. Celebrate with Weis Dietitian Christina Pelletier, MS, RDN, LDN, and learn about the components of the Mediterranean Diet and its health benefits. The presentation will be followed by a Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl recipe demonstration that participants can sample. Come and receive a $5.00 coupon to Weis Markets.

Adobe Illustrator: Create a Bookmark
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 29, 2024 - 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this session, we will go over some of the fundamental tools of Adobe Illustrator while designing custom bookmarks. Attendees will get a chance to experiment with the software and produce their bookmarks on either Cricut Maker or Cricut Explore. All the necessary materials will be provided, and no prior experience with Cricut is required.

Dinner's on Me: Frito Chili Pie
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, May 29, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 13 - 18
Registration and more information
Calling all aspiring teen chefs! Join us in the kitchen to learn how to prepare Frito Chili Pie (chili served over corn chips and topped with sour cream and cheese). Enhance your culinary skills, gain confidence in the kitchen, and impress your loved ones with your cooking ability.

Reduce Food Cost, Not Quality
Finksburg Branch
Wednesday, May 29, 2024 - 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Eating on a budget doesn't mean that food quality has to suffer. Join Weis Dietitian Christina Pelletier, MS, RDN, and LDN, as we discuss the variety of quality, nutritious foods offered in the grocery store while keeping the budget in mind. This presentation will be followed by a recipe demonstration that participants will be able to sample.

Bernina Sewing Machines: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 30, 2024 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Dive deeper into the capabilities of the Bernina sewing machine in this class. Discover advanced features, techniques, and tips to make the most of these machines.

Class Prerequisites: Intro to Basic Sewing Skills and/or EC sewing machine certification. 

Required Materials: A sewing machine and all materials will be provided.

Drafting a Bodice Block Pattern
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 30, 2024 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Students will learn about basic blocks for fashion design. Students will use recorded measurements to plot a custom bodice block for fashion design or for use with commercial patterns to assess fit.

Students must have attended Measuring the Body for Garment Construction and Fashion Design as a prerequisite for this class.

Couples Cook: Southern Shrimp and Grits
Exploration Commons
Thursday, May 30, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Plan a date night! Delectable shrimp will be cooked with creole seasoning, red pepper, green onions, crisp bacon, and garlic then put over a bed of creamy cheddar grits.

Financial Foundations: Blueprint to Thrive
Eldersburg Branch
Thursday, May 30, 2024 - 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Prepare for the three most important days in your life. Manage your savings, expenses, and credit. Learn how to deal with setbacks and work toward your financial goals. 

Yoga with Meditation
Eldersburg Branch
Friday, May 31, 2024 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Experience the many benefits of yoga and meditation. This class, taught by Rebecca Berg, welcomes all levels of students. Adaptations for using a chair will be shared if participants are uncomfortable getting on the floor. Meditation exercises will be incorporated into the practice. Please wear comfortable clothing; bring a blanket, yoga mat, and a strap (or belt or towel).

African Eats: Fufu with Chicken Soup
Exploration Commons
Friday, May 31, 2024 - 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Guest presenter Leticia Nortey will teach attendees how to make the authentic West African dish of Cassava and Plantain Fufu with Chicken Soup. This dish has recently become popular on TikTok, and we will learn how to make this social media phenomenon right here in Exploration Commons. 

Murder Mystery Lock-In
Mount Airy Branch
Friday, May 31, 2024 - 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
There's been a murder in Mount Airy! Join us for a night of mystery, sleuthing, role-playing, and intrigue. Can you assemble the clues and determine which of your fellow guests is the killer?

3D Design Skills: Sketching
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 1, 2024 - 9:30am - 11:30am
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Ready to take your 3D design skills to the next level? In this comprehensive, hands-on session in Onshape, a powerful cloud-based computer-aided design (CAD) platform, we will explore the sketch tools available for creating the foundations of our 3D designs.

Animation Creation: Intro to 3D Modeling with Blender
Exploration Commons
Saturday, June 1, 2024 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the cool features and utilities inside the free 3D modeling and animation software Blender! This class will showcase basic navigation of the user interface and its modeling tools. 

Expert's Guide to Moving, Downsizing, and Rightsizing
Finksburg Branch
Monday, June 3, 2024 - 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Say goodbye to moving stress and join Ryan Burns, owner of Stress Free Solutions, to learn how to get started and achieve your individual goals. As a professional move manager with ten years of experience, he will share his best tips and tricks to help you easily navigate the process.

Cooking for Wellness: Eating for Mental Health
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 3, 2024 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Many of us are familiar with how the foods we eat can impact our physical health, but our brain is a part of our physical body, too, and what we eat can also influence our mental health. Join a registered dietitian to make Citrus Fish with Rainbow Salsa and discuss how the foods we eat can change how we feel. This class is provided through The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County and Carroll Hospital.

Summer Reads: Alex Finlay
Exploration Commons
Monday, June 3, 2024 - 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Presented by A Likely Story Bookstore and Carroll County Public Library.

Alex Finlay lives in Washington, D.C. and is the author of several critically-acclaimed novels, including the 2021 breakout, Every Last Fear. His work has appeared on numerous best-of-the-year lists, been published in twenty-two languages around the world, and Every Last Fear is currently in development for a major television limited series. His latest, If Something Happens to Me, is told by several distinct, compelling characters whose paths intersect, detonating into a story of twist after pulse-pounding twist. 

Alex will be in conversation with K.T. Nguyen author of the psychological thriller novel, You Know What You Did.

Books will be available for purchase and signing. 

Making Movies: Intro to Premiere Pro
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
See what's behind the silver screen in this introduction to Adobe's high-end video editing software, Premiere Pro! We will cover everything from basic editing tips and tricks to some of the cool tucked-away features in the program. So, if you have ever wanted to start getting into video editing, this is the class for you! 

Creative Crudité
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will learn how to make a beautiful crudité platter with delicious dips. 

Summer Reads: Erika Robuck
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 - 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a special book launch for Erika Robuck's The Last Twelve Miles. From the glamorous world of D. C. Intelligence to the sultry shores of the Straits of Florida, The Last Twelve Miles―a tale of ambition and envy―is based on the true story of two women masterminds trying to outwit each other in a dangerous and fascinating game of high stakes. Erika Robuck is the national bestselling author of nine novels, including Hemingway's Girl and The Invisible Woman. A former teacher, Robuck was named Annapolis’ 2014 Author of the Year, and she resides there with her husband and three sons. An author talk will be followed by book sales and signing.

Presented by A Likely Story Bookstore and Carroll County Public Library. 

Transitioning to Medicare Part 1
Online
Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Are you or someone you care about eligible for Medicare? Come and find out how to maximize your Medicare health benefits. There are many decisions to make when you are transitioning to Medicare. This seminar will cover the four parts of Medicare (Parts A, B, C, and D), Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, available preventive services, and how to protect yourself from healthcare fraud. We will also cover Medicare Savings Programs, which help pay out-of-pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries. These are not all low-income programs.

Basic Electronics & Arduinos
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This skill-building class focuses on the basics of electronics and the use of the Arduino programming environment to create a wide array of simple circuits that teach not only the fundamentals but also stand as examples for your future projects. We'll get hands-on with assembling circuit elements such as resistors, diodes, sensors, and microcontrollers and discuss the theory and programming involved in making it all work.