Currently Registering Programs

Polar Express Pajama Party
Eldersburg Branch
Thursday, December 8, 2022 - 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 4 - 10
Registration and more information
All aboard! Join us in your favorite PJs for hot chocolate, crafts, and the reading of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg.

Design and Make Your Own Squish Plush
Eldersburg Branch
Saturday, December 10, 2022 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Ages: 11 - 17
Registration and more information
Are you a fan of Squishmallows, or know someone who would love one for the holidays? Join us for this three-session program to design and create your own Squishmallow-style plush! All materials will be provided, and no prior sewing skills are needed. Attendees are asked to attend all three sessions, and will automatically be signed up for each session. 

Reindeer Rumpus
Eldersburg Branch
Friday, December 16, 2022 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: 2 - 5
Registration and more information
On Dasher, on Dancer, on Prancer, just to name a few. Make your own reindeer with scissors and glue. Join us for a  jolly reindeer rumpus!

Holiday Craft Afternoon: Wood Slice Ornament
Eldersburg Branch
Saturday, December 17, 2022 - 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Looking for a last-minute gift or just want to relax after a busy day of shopping? Join us as we spend a fun afternoon creating easy wood slice ornaments. If you wish to use a stencil or paint free-hand, we will have all the supplies you need to walk away with a creative, individual ornament to gift or keep for yourself!

¡Parranda! Traditional Puerto Rican Holiday Eats
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 3, 2022 - 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 10 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join guest presenters Diana Almodovar and Javier Toro as we make traditional Puerto Rican recipes in time for the holidays! In this hands-on class, we will prepare non-alcoholic coquito, empanadas de yuca, and yuca en escabeche, which are sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Children ages 10 - 14 are welcome to attend with a registered adult.  

Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Monday, December 5, 2022 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This beginner-level laser cutter class will walk you through the basics of design, machine use, and safety procedures. Customers who successfully complete this program will be certified for use of Exploration Commons’ Fusion Pro 48 laser.

Cook with Collision Course: The Art of Delicious Egg Rolls
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, December 6, 2022 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join guest Chef Anthony Gerald and Ashley Gerald, of Collision Course, a southern-inspired restaurant coming soon to downtown Westminster! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the secrets to making delicious egg rolls along with flavorful dipping sauces.  

Hello Python
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, December 7, 2022 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Interested in learning Python but don't know where to start? Join us for an introductory look at the Python programming language, resources for learning, and a general open discussion about programming.

Family Baking Class: Brownies
Exploration Commons
Thursday, December 8, 2022 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on family baking class celebrating National Brownie Day! We'll bake brownies from scratch and practice basic measuring and baking skills. One registration per family, with a maximum family size of four. For families with children ages 6 and up; children must be accompanied by an adult. Please list the names of attending family members and the ages of the children.

Kids Intro to Basic Sewing Skills
Exploration Commons
Thursday, December 8, 2022 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 10 - 16
Registration and more information
Learn the necessary basics to feel comfortable using a sewing machine. This is a beginner-level class; you will leave feeling confident about the next steps to take toward sewing your own projects.

Mindful Munching
Exploration Commons
Friday, December 9, 2022 - 10:30am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
The holidays can be a stressful time, surrounded by all sorts of tasty temptations. How can we fully enjoy holiday treats without guilt? Learn techniques to reduce stress and fully immerse yourself in a food experience that will leave you feeling more satisfied with your food choices. We will make a tasty treat to test out what you learned! This program is in partnership with Tevis Center for Wellness, Carroll Hospital. 

Friends' Annual Meeting
Exploration Commons
Friday, December 9, 2022 - 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Calling all Friends of CCPL! You are invited to attend our annual business meeting featuring special guest author Alix Rickloff. Alix's latest book, The Girls in Navy Blue, will be available for purchase.

Please remember to vote in advance here. 

Engrave a Cocoa Mug
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 10, 2022 - 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Warm up from the cold with this makerspace/kitchen class! We’ll use design software and our Fusion Pro Laser Cutter to engrave custom designs on mugs. Then, head to the kitchen for a hot chocolate tasting.

Sewing Skills: Sewing Patterns Demystified
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn about using commercial and indie sewing patterns, measuring for size, and how to interpret and navigate written instructions. This is a beginner-friendly class, no sewing experience is required.

Soundscaping: Intro to FL Studio and Roland Keyboard
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basics of music creation with an intro to FL Studio and a look into a few of the unique features found in our very own Roland FP-90X keyboard. 

Tea Types & Tastings
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 - 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Taste the major tea types and learn to steep the perfect cup of tea.  

Steamed Buns and Dumplings
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, we will prepare Asian-styled steamed buns and dumplings, along with tasty dipping sauces.

Intro to CNC Routing
Exploration Commons
Thursday, December 15, 2022 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This two-part program will introduce you to the basics of design, machine use, and safety procedures for our Iconic i2015 CNC router. Session one will focus on project design and the VCarve software. Session two covers machine use, including hands-on time with the CNC machine. Customers who successfully complete both sessions of this program will be certified for use of Exploration Commons’ CNC machine.

All program registrants must complete the prerequisite online Iconic CNC Machine Use and Safety Training prior to attending the first session of this program.

Advanced Laser Cutting: Epilog Dashboard
Exploration Commons
Thursday, December 15, 2022 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this session, we will take a closer look at the Epilog Dashboard to gain a better understanding of the Fusion Pro's abilities. Topics include color mapping and camera-based artwork alignment. 

Fusion Pro Laser Cutter Certification is required prior to attending this program.

Intro to CNC Routing
Exploration Commons
Friday, December 16, 2022 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This two-part program will introduce you to the basics of design, machine use, and safety procedures for our Iconic i2015 CNC router. Session one will focus on project design and the VCarve software. Session two covers machine use, including hands-on time with the CNC machine. Customers who successfully complete both sessions of this program will be certified for use of Exploration Commons’ CNC machine.

All program registrants must complete the prerequisite online Iconic CNC Machine Use and Safety Training prior to attending the first session of this program.

Family Baking Class: Chocolate Lovers
Exploration Commons
Saturday, December 17, 2022 - 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Ages: 6 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on baking class, we’ll make molten chocolate lava cakes and hot cocoa. One registration per family, up to four people. For families with children ages 6 and up; children must be accompanied by an adult.  

Ready, Set, VIOLIN!
Finksburg Branch
Monday, December 5, 2022 - 10:00am - 10:45am
Ages: 2 - 6
Registration and more information
Do you have a child that loves the violin but you’re not sure if they are ready for lessons? Join the Ready, Set, VIOLIN class to find out! This class provides an opportunity to explore violin lessons without a financial commitment. During the free, 5-week class families get ready for formal lessons by learning basic skills required for successful lessons.

By the end of the class, families will learn:

• how to take a bow
• how to stand with the correct posture
• how to hold a violin and bow
• ear training so the song can be learned by ear
• to develop concentration and observation skills
• to become familiar with Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star variations
• preliminary bow exercises to play rhythms

Parents and adult caregivers participate in the class. All materials will be provided. No violin is required; the Suzuki method begins on the box violin and then moves to a real violin when the child is ready. The Suzuki method educates children in the same way they learn their native language, through immersion! All concepts are taught through play, games, stories, and picture books. Adults will have a better understanding of the Suzuki method of education by the end of the class. Sensei Glenda Walsh Crouse is the director of Westminster Suzuki Strings. She has 19 years of experience nurturing young artists. 

Holiday Craft Evening: Upcycled Ornaments
Finksburg Branch
Wednesday, December 7, 2022 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Holiday craft evening! Join us in the Finksburg Large Meeting Room to create upcycled ornaments or pick up a kit to take home and make at your convenience. Plastic ornaments will be filled with upcycled papers, ribbons, Grinch hearts, and other items sure to spread holiday cheer.  

PAWS to Read
Finksburg Branch
Saturday, December 10, 2022 - 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 4 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Come to the library to visit with or read to a book-loving dog. Research shows that reading to animals boosts reading skills in children, and helps with social skills and even emotional health for all ages. Adults and seniors are welcome to come to de-stress and relax with a fuzzy friend. Walk-ins welcome!

Dance Demo
Finksburg Branch
Monday, December 12, 2022 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: 3 - 6
Registration and more information
Join Tami Gee's Studio of Dance for a class in ballet and creative movement. Wear clothing that you can move freely in.

Sensory Storytime
Finksburg Branch
Friday, December 16, 2022 - 11:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 2 - 6
Registration and more information
Participate in an interactive storytime for families with sensory sensitivities. 

Mount Airy Info-Walks
Mount Airy Branch
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 - 11:30am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
James Clear, author of the best-selling book Atomic Habits, advises that motivation and accountability play a huge part in creating lasting habits. Join us for a 30-minute “info-walk” around the neighborhood surrounding CCPL's Mount Airy Branch. You will be motivated because walking has been proven to boost your mental as well as physical health. We will also share facts about the area that you may not know. You will make yourself accountable because once you sign up, we will expect to see you! We will be taking a different walk on the second Tuesday of December, January, and February – make it a habit to join us.

Quick and Easy: Make a Peppermint Sugar Scrub
North Carroll Branch
Saturday, December 3, 2022 - 10:30am - 11:30am
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn how to make a peppermint sugar body scrub that is pretty and smells great, too! Then we'll put it in a pretty jar and wrap it in a bag, that you can decorate with holiday stamps, perfect for gift-giving.

Holiday Bud Vase Arrangement
North Carroll Branch
Tuesday, December 6, 2022 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Participants will learn how to arrange a bud vase that, with simple care and timely additions, will last into the new year. Participants need to bring a bud vase with a 1 - 2 inch opening. Leave with a creation to beautify your home for the entire season. Presented by Marilyn Sparks of White House Nursery.

Make a Fantasy-Themed Luminary Jar
North Carroll Branch
Monday, December 12, 2022 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 11 - 17
Registration and more information
Make a fantasy-themed luminary jar.

Ready or Not: Preparing for the Unexpected
North Carroll Branch
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Life is full of surprises – some better than others. In your daily life, you probably already prepare for many potentially unpleasant, unexpected events. A job loss, extended disability, or untimely loss of a family member can profoundly impact your family’s financial situation. We’ll outline a proactive strategy to help protect your family’s financial resources from life’s unexpected turns.

Door Decor: December Wreaths
Taneytown Branch
Monday, December 5, 2022 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Create an adorable wreath to adorn your door or brighten your home. All supplies will be provided.

Itty Bitty Dancers
Taneytown Branch
Wednesday, December 7, 2022 - 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 2 - 6
Registration and more information
Come dance with us! Join in the fun as we learn to dance with Kim Golliday from the Taneytown Dance Center. She’ll use songs and movement to teach some dancing basics. 

Preschool STEAM Tales: Gingerbread Fun
Taneytown Branch
Friday, December 9, 2022 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: 2 - 6
Registration and more information
Explore traditional fairy tales with a STEAM twist! We'll incorporate science, technology, engineering, art, and/or math activities to extend the fun! Our feature story will be The Gingerbread Man. Playdough and other hands-on fun are planned.

Pre-Twinkle Violin Class Demo
Taneytown Branch
Monday, December 12, 2022 - 10:00am - 11:00am
Ages: 2 - 6
Registration and more information
Come to a free violin class at the library. This free 30-minute group class will instruct children in the basics of violin playing (instrument hold, bow hold, rhythms, basic instrument care, etc.). Children will have a chance to play along with Ms. Glenda on real violins. Questions will be answered at the end of the class regarding the Suzuki method, how to find an instrument, and about the Pre-Twinkle program at Westminster Suzuki Strings.

Let's Get Crafty
Taneytown Branch
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Come craft with us! We will have a fun and EASY craft project to do together each month. No experience or creative skills are needed! Bring a friend and craft together, or come to meet new people who have a shared love of crafting.  

Messy Masterpieces: Holiday Art
Taneytown Branch
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 - 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 2 - 6
Registration and more information
Paint and scissors and glue, oh my! It’s time to create your very own masterpieces that can be used for holiday gifts! Please dress to get messy.

Taneytown Anime Club
Taneytown Branch
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 11 - 17
Registration and more information
Join us to watch the latest and greatest anime with other Taneytown teens! 

Estate Planning with Amy Lazas
Westminster Branch
Saturday, December 3, 2022 - 11:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learn everything you’ve always wanted to know about wills, trusts, health care directives, probate, and powers of attorney but didn’t know who to ask! Join us as Amy Lazas, Esq., of Providence Law Group, LLC helps to make this complex topic a little easier to understand.

TRIVIA NIGHT at Bistro 91 in Finksburg
Offsite
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 - 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
What trivia tidbits are rattling around in your head? Grab a few friends and join us for Trivia Night at Bistro 91! Prizes are provided by Bistro 91.

Registration required. Only one person per team needs to register.

Transitioning to Medicare Part 1
Online
Wednesday, December 7, 2022 - 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 make the most of your Medicare health benefits. There are many decisions to make when you are transitioning to Medicare. This seminar will cover what the four parts of Medicare (Parts A, B, C, and D) are, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, available preventive services, and how to protect yourself from healthcare fraud. We, also, will cover Medicare Savings Programs, which help pay for Medicare beneficiary out-of-pocket costs. These are not all low-income programs.

Virtual Teen Advisory Board: Service Learning Opportunity
Online
Wednesday, December 7, 2022 - 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - 17
Registration and more information
Are you interested in volunteering virtually at the library? Join us for Teen Advisory Board (TAB), a monthly meeting where teens help plan programs, complete service-oriented projects, and advise the library on teen-related topics.

The Zentangle Method of Drawing-based Mindfulness
Online
Wednesday, December 7, 2022 - 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ages: 10 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this online beginner's level class, Sarah Reading CZT (Certified Zentangle Teacher) will lead us through a relaxing drawing activity that all starts with four dots and a line. The outcome will amaze you! Please have the following supplies handy: white paper, a black pen, a pencil, and something with which to smudge. Please register for each Wednesday program separately. You will receive the Zoom link by 4pm on the day of the program. 

Dungeons & Dragons Online
Online
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 - 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.

Transitioning to Medicare Part 2
Online
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 - 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 make the most of your Medicare health benefits. This seminar focuses on Medicare Supplement/Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans. Learn about the different Medigap plans and your period of guaranteed issue rights under original Medicare. These secondary/supplemental plans can cover some or all of Medicare's out-of-pocket costs. We will also discuss a different way to obtain all services covered by Medicare and more: Medicare Advantage Plans.