All CCPL locations will be closed for the Martin Luther King Holiday on Monday, January 19. We will reopen for regular hours on Tuesday, January 20.
Carroll County Public Library
Infinite Possibilities
North Carroll Branch
2255 Hanover Pike
Hampstead, MD 21074
Darrell Robertson, Branch Manager
Branch Hours
Monday - Thursday: 9 AM - 8 PM
Friday - Saturday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Directions
Programs and Events
Check Currents or the Calendar of Events site for more events.
Preschool Vision Screening
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 9:30am - 12:00pm
Ages: 2 - 6
More information
Drop by for a free vision screening for preschool-aged children. Testing covers nearsightedness, farsightedness, unequal focusing, and differences in the power of the eyes. Offered in partnership with the Lineboro-Manchester Lions Club.
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 9:30am - 12:00pm
Ages: 2 - 6
More information
Drop by for a free vision screening for preschool-aged children. Testing covers nearsightedness, farsightedness, unequal focusing, and differences in the power of the eyes. Offered in partnership with the Lineboro-Manchester Lions Club.
Move and Learn
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
A theme-based storytime featuring an age-appropriate story, songs, and learning activities, with a concentration on creative movement.
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
A theme-based storytime featuring an age-appropriate story, songs, and learning activities, with a concentration on creative movement.
North Carroll Writers Group
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your writing, works-in-progress, or works-in-thought. This writing group allows beginners, unpublished, and published writers to network, learn, vent, and feel inspired to move to the next level. All genres are welcome: novel, short story, essay, poetry, memoirs, spiritual, sci-fi, fiction, and nonfiction. This group is led by Barbara D. Duffey, an experienced writing workshop leader and author of five books.
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your writing, works-in-progress, or works-in-thought. This writing group allows beginners, unpublished, and published writers to network, learn, vent, and feel inspired to move to the next level. All genres are welcome: novel, short story, essay, poetry, memoirs, spiritual, sci-fi, fiction, and nonfiction. This group is led by Barbara D. Duffey, an experienced writing workshop leader and author of five books.
It's Scent-sational!
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to make a scented body scrub and a moisturizing lip balm at this fun winter program.
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn to make a scented body scrub and a moisturizing lip balm at this fun winter program.
Family Storytime
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
We’ll share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children.
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
We’ll share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children.
Chair Yoga at the Library
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Focus on simple stretches, mindful breathing, and relaxation techniques through chair yoga at the library! This class is a great way to improve your flexibility, balance, and overall well-being in a welcoming environment. No prior yoga experience or supplies are needed—just bring your curiosity and a smile!
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Focus on simple stretches, mindful breathing, and relaxation techniques through chair yoga at the library! This class is a great way to improve your flexibility, balance, and overall well-being in a welcoming environment. No prior yoga experience or supplies are needed—just bring your curiosity and a smile!
Family Fun Night
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 6:30pm - 7:15pm
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
Wear your pajamas and listen to stories before bed. Join us for family fun, featuring stories, music, crafts, play, and time with friends.
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 6:30pm - 7:15pm
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
Wear your pajamas and listen to stories before bed. Join us for family fun, featuring stories, music, crafts, play, and time with friends.
Family Storytime
Thursday, January 15, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
We’ll share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children.
Thursday, January 15, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
We’ll share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children.
North Carroll Writers Group
Thursday, January 15, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your writing, works-in-progress, or works-in-thought. This writing group allows beginners, unpublished, and published writers to network, learn, vent, and feel inspired to move to the next level. All genres are welcome: novel, short story, essay, poetry, memoirs, spiritual, sci-fi, fiction, and nonfiction. This group is led by Barbara D. Duffey, an experienced writing workshop leader and author of five books.
Thursday, January 15, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your writing, works-in-progress, or works-in-thought. This writing group allows beginners, unpublished, and published writers to network, learn, vent, and feel inspired to move to the next level. All genres are welcome: novel, short story, essay, poetry, memoirs, spiritual, sci-fi, fiction, and nonfiction. This group is led by Barbara D. Duffey, an experienced writing workshop leader and author of five books.
Mini Musicians
Thursday, January 15, 2026 - 1:00pm - 1:30pm
Ages: 3 - 6
Registration and more information
Come join us for a creative and exploratory first introduction to music! This program will incorporate piano playing, boomwhackers, and rhythm instruments while teaching children the basics of pitch, patterns, and rhythm. We will learn skills that are beneficial for future piano lessons and other musical instruments too!
Thursday, January 15, 2026 - 1:00pm - 1:30pm
Ages: 3 - 6
Registration and more information
Come join us for a creative and exploratory first introduction to music! This program will incorporate piano playing, boomwhackers, and rhythm instruments while teaching children the basics of pitch, patterns, and rhythm. We will learn skills that are beneficial for future piano lessons and other musical instruments too!
Create a Book Blanket
Thursday, January 15, 2026 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Celebrate your love of reading and crocheting by creating a book blanket! Join us as we learn how to make a personalized blanket using granny squares that feature favorite book covers and genres. This project is easy to learn for those who know basic crochet stitches. Participants are encouraged to bring along a hook, yarn, and a favorite book they have read; however, additional supplies will also be available.
Thursday, January 15, 2026 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Celebrate your love of reading and crocheting by creating a book blanket! Join us as we learn how to make a personalized blanket using granny squares that feature favorite book covers and genres. This project is easy to learn for those who know basic crochet stitches. Participants are encouraged to bring along a hook, yarn, and a favorite book they have read; however, additional supplies will also be available.
Q&A with the Small Business Administration
Friday, January 16, 2026 - 9:30am - 1:30pm
Ages: Adults
More information
class="custom1">Meet with a representative from the Small Business Administration (SBA) for a 30-minute, one-on-one appointment to learn about resources available for small businesses. Whether you want to start a business or are interested in learning to improve the business you have, the SBA can assist you.
Friday, January 16, 2026 - 9:30am - 1:30pm
Ages: Adults
More information
class="custom1">Meet with a representative from the Small Business Administration (SBA) for a 30-minute, one-on-one appointment to learn about resources available for small businesses. Whether you want to start a business or are interested in learning to improve the business you have, the SBA can assist you.
Schedule an appointment at https://tinyurl.com/ccpl-sba-northcarroll or email Denise.Hayes@sba.gov. Walk-ins are welcomed as time allows.
Read and Play
Friday, January 16, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 24 Months
More information
Join your little one at a storytime featuring interactive books, rhymes, music, and movement, followed by playgroup activities that allow children to practice skills and socialize.
Friday, January 16, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 24 Months
More information
Join your little one at a storytime featuring interactive books, rhymes, music, and movement, followed by playgroup activities that allow children to practice skills and socialize.
North Carroll Ask a Master Gardener
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 9:30am - 11:30am
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your questions about winter gardening to a Carroll County Master Gardener and pick up tips, handouts, and more.
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 9:30am - 11:30am
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your questions about winter gardening to a Carroll County Master Gardener and pick up tips, handouts, and more.
Move and Learn
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
A theme-based storytime featuring an age-appropriate story, songs, and learning activities, with a concentration on creative movement.
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
A theme-based storytime featuring an age-appropriate story, songs, and learning activities, with a concentration on creative movement.
North Carroll Knitters Group
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Knitters and crocheters are welcome to join this group gathering to share tips, projects, and patterns.
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Knitters and crocheters are welcome to join this group gathering to share tips, projects, and patterns.
North Carroll Writers Group
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your writing, works-in-progress, or works-in-thought. This writing group allows beginners, unpublished, and published writers to network, learn, vent, and feel inspired to move to the next level. All genres are welcome: novel, short story, essay, poetry, memoirs, spiritual, sci-fi, fiction, and nonfiction. This group is led by Barbara D. Duffey, an experienced writing workshop leader and author of five books.
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your writing, works-in-progress, or works-in-thought. This writing group allows beginners, unpublished, and published writers to network, learn, vent, and feel inspired to move to the next level. All genres are welcome: novel, short story, essay, poetry, memoirs, spiritual, sci-fi, fiction, and nonfiction. This group is led by Barbara D. Duffey, an experienced writing workshop leader and author of five books.
Family Storytime
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
We’ll share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children.
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
We’ll share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children.
Carroll County Workforce Development Day
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Explore invaluable career resources at Carroll County Workforce Development's pop-up event. Discover free training opportunities, learn how to connect with employers, and receive personalized support to revamp your resume.
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Explore invaluable career resources at Carroll County Workforce Development's pop-up event. Discover free training opportunities, learn how to connect with employers, and receive personalized support to revamp your resume.
Chair Yoga at the Library
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Focus on simple stretches, mindful breathing, and relaxation techniques through chair yoga at the library! This class is a great way to improve your flexibility, balance, and overall well-being in a welcoming environment. No prior yoga experience or supplies are needed—just bring your curiosity and a smile!
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Focus on simple stretches, mindful breathing, and relaxation techniques through chair yoga at the library! This class is a great way to improve your flexibility, balance, and overall well-being in a welcoming environment. No prior yoga experience or supplies are needed—just bring your curiosity and a smile!
Family Fun Night
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 6:30pm - 7:15pm
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
Wear your pajamas and listen to stories before bed. Join us for family fun, featuring stories, music, crafts, play, and time with friends.
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 6:30pm - 7:15pm
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
Wear your pajamas and listen to stories before bed. Join us for family fun, featuring stories, music, crafts, play, and time with friends.
Family Storytime
Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
We’ll share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children.
Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 8
More information
We’ll share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play together in a format appropriate for young children.
North Carroll Writers Group
Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your writing, works-in-progress, or works-in-thought. This writing group allows beginners, unpublished, and published writers to network, learn, vent, and feel inspired to move to the next level. All genres are welcome: novel, short story, essay, poetry, memoirs, spiritual, sci-fi, fiction, and nonfiction. This group is led by Barbara D. Duffey, an experienced writing workshop leader and author of five books.
Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
Bring your writing, works-in-progress, or works-in-thought. This writing group allows beginners, unpublished, and published writers to network, learn, vent, and feel inspired to move to the next level. All genres are welcome: novel, short story, essay, poetry, memoirs, spiritual, sci-fi, fiction, and nonfiction. This group is led by Barbara D. Duffey, an experienced writing workshop leader and author of five books.
Mini Musicians
Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 1:00pm - 1:30pm
Ages: 3 - 6
Registration and more information
Come join us for a creative and exploratory first introduction to music! This program will incorporate piano playing, boomwhackers, and rhythm instruments while teaching children the basics of pitch, patterns, and rhythm. We will learn skills that are beneficial for future piano lessons and other musical instruments too!
Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 1:00pm - 1:30pm
Ages: 3 - 6
Registration and more information
Come join us for a creative and exploratory first introduction to music! This program will incorporate piano playing, boomwhackers, and rhythm instruments while teaching children the basics of pitch, patterns, and rhythm. We will learn skills that are beneficial for future piano lessons and other musical instruments too!
Crazy for Crafting
Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 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. This month we will be making wine bottle luminaries.
Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 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. This month we will be making wine bottle luminaries.
Read and Play
Friday, January 23, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 24 Months
More information
Join your little one at a storytime featuring interactive books, rhymes, music, and movement, followed by playgroup activities that allow children to practice skills and socialize.
Friday, January 23, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 24 Months
More information
Join your little one at a storytime featuring interactive books, rhymes, music, and movement, followed by playgroup activities that allow children to practice skills and socialize.
Puzzle Race
Saturday, January 24, 2026 - 10:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Do you love to do jigsaw puzzles? Form a team of up to 4 players and join us for a puzzle race competition! All teams will get the same 500-piece puzzle and race to see which team can assemble it first.
Saturday, January 24, 2026 - 10:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Do you love to do jigsaw puzzles? Form a team of up to 4 players and join us for a puzzle race competition! All teams will get the same 500-piece puzzle and race to see which team can assemble it first.
Note: One player will register per team; please include the names of other teammates when you register.
Read and Play
Monday, January 26, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 24 Months
More information
Join your little one at a storytime featuring interactive books, rhymes, music, and movement, followed by playgroup activities that allow children to practice skills and socialize.
Monday, January 26, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: Birth - 24 Months
More information
Join your little one at a storytime featuring interactive books, rhymes, music, and movement, followed by playgroup activities that allow children to practice skills and socialize.
Alphabet Train
Monday, January 26, 2026 - 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 3 - 6
More information
Climb aboard each week to explore a different letter of the alphabet through books, songs, and activities. All adult caregivers are welcome.
Monday, January 26, 2026 - 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 3 - 6
More information
Climb aboard each week to explore a different letter of the alphabet through books, songs, and activities. All adult caregivers are welcome.
Sphero Mania
Monday, January 26, 2026 - 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Ages: 8 - 13
Registration and more information
We will be breaking out the mini remote-controlled Sphero robots. We will be doing programming with them as well as running them through races and obstacle courses.
Monday, January 26, 2026 - 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Ages: 8 - 13
Registration and more information
We will be breaking out the mini remote-controlled Sphero robots. We will be doing programming with them as well as running them through races and obstacle courses.
North Carroll Book Discussion Group: The Leftover Woman
Monday, January 26, 2026 - 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
This month's selection is The Leftover Woman by Jean Kwok.
Monday, January 26, 2026 - 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ages: Adults
More information
This month's selection is The Leftover Woman by Jean Kwok.
Passport Services
The North Carroll Branch accepts passport applications on behalf of the U.S. Department of State to better serve our customers and to respond to the needs within our communities. We process new passport applications and provide photo services on site. Please note that we cannot accept or process passport renewals, however, we do provide forms and assistance.
Passports services are available on a first come, first served basis, with no appointment necessary. Hours are:
Monday - Thursday: 10 AM - 6 PM
Friday and Saturday: 10 AM - 3 PM
Sunday: No passport services
For more passport information, please visit our passport page.
Meeting Rooms
Meeting rooms are available for public use Monday through Saturday, excluding library-observed holidays.
We have the following meeting rooms available for public use:
Large Meeting Room - Capacity: 50
Small Meeting Room - Capacity: 10
2 Study Rooms - Capacity: 1 - 4 per room
Services
- 24/7 book drop access
- Children's learning games
- Citizenship Resource Center
- Copy machine
- EV charging
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Notary Services
- Passport services
Branch History
The Hampstead Library was established in 1955, through the efforts of the Junior Woman's Club of Hampstead. The club won a Federation Prize for its library project. With the establishment of a county system in 1958, the Hampstead Library became the Northeast Branch of the Carroll County Public Library. The present North Carroll Branch, located between Hampstead and Manchester, opened as a full-service branch in February, 1990.
The 2011 renovation to the branch included improvements to the interior and a reworking of the parking lot entrance to alleviate unsafe conditions.
Interior renovations took place in 2025. New shelving was purchased, the customer service desk was replaced, lights replaced, the entire branch repainted, and new carpet installed.