Author brandondwightbannister

Arlington National Cemetary on a fall day, with a blue sky and the leaves changing colors.

Veterans Day at the Library

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Arlington National Cemetary on a fall day, with a blue sky and the leaves changing colors.
Photo by SteenJepsen from Pixabay

by Brandon B.

Every November 11, our nation honors the brave men and women of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and National Guard who have sacrificed for the well-being of our country. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed Armistice Day to Veterans Day, recognizing the service of all who have worn the uniform—both in times of war and peace. From the annual Army vs. Navy football game and local parades to a visit to Arlington National Cemetery, America continues to express its deep gratitude to our armed forces.

HCLS is profoundly thankful for the courage and commitment of our veterans and active-duty military members, whose sacrifices help keep our world safe. Whether you are currently serving, a veteran, or simply interested in learning more about the military, your library is here to support you. HCLS offers a wide range of books, resources, and events designed to meet your research, educational, and entertainment needs.

In our Equity Resource Collection at the Central Branch, you can explore the powerful stories of historic African American service members, including the Buffalo Soldiers, the Six Triple Eight, and the Tuskegee Airmen. Looking to connect with others who have served? Keep an out for the upcoming Veterans Book Club, launching in February 2026 at HCLS Central Branch, for monthly Sunday gatherings and engaging discussions.

You can read inspiring biographies of distinguished leaders such as General Colin Powell, General Norman Schwarzkopf, and Senator John McCain, or enjoy military-themed films with family and friends, including Saving Private Ryan, Glory, The Hurt Locker, American Sniper, and Miracle at St. Anna.
This Veterans Day, we proudly salute the courage, sacrifice, and enduring service of all who have served our nation.

Lullaby Project: Veterans Songwriting Program
For veterans & service members. For more information about the schedule and location, and to register, visit bit.ly/Veterans-songs
Project runs November 14 – January 17
The Lullaby Project offers veterans, service members, and their families the opportunity to take part in a songwriting workshop with Grammy-winning songwriters. Participants have the option to either write a Lullaby for children or grandchildren, a song for a spouse or a special someone in your life or in honor of a fellow service member, or write a song to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026. No musical knowledge or experience needed.

In partnership with Baltimore Classical Guitar Society presents, which has created over 100 songs with parents, grandparents and veterans. In collaboration with Carnegie Hall, Weill Music Institute

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

Our next chapter starts soon when the blog moves to the newly redesigned hclibrary.org. All the same great reviews and news, plus more library information!

The photograph depicts Booker the Owl, the Howard County Library System mascot, reading a book about owls by Gail Gibbons in front of a section of children's bookshelves.

National Book Lovers Day

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The photograph depicts Booker the Owl, the Howard County Library System mascot, reading a book about owls by Gail Gibbons in front of a section of children's bookshelves.
Booker reads Owls by Gail Gibbons in celebration of National Book Lovers Day.

by Brandon B.

Summer reading pairs perfectly with National Book Lovers Day – like flip-flops and a beach towel! On August 9, you have an opportunity to celebrate literature, national best-selling books, and your favorite reads at any HCLS branch.

Cream, sugar, and fruit make for perfect ice cream — what ingredients make a terrific book for you? You may be looking for old-fashioned sass and wry truth in a children’s book by Judy Blume. Maybe you have a taste for a modern, poetic, and fun teen book by Jason Reynolds, one that even adults can enjoy. Some readers may prefer a spicy romantic thriller by Freida McFadden, or an impactful, savory nonfiction book by Tony Robbins. Whatever your taste in books, the library has something for you, free of charge and free of any sort of judgment.

Any of these books count toward completing HCLS’ summer reading challenge. If you haven’t already, pick up an Adult Reading Challenge booklet at any of our branches. The 14 challenges guide you through a year’s worth of reading, with summer being a great time to get started with your first three titles. Once you complete three challenges, come back to the library for a small gift (while supplies last) and entry into a bigger prize drawing.

For National Book Lovers Day, it seems appropriate to take a look at the the adult summer reading booklet. One challenge called “Reading is Magic.” After all, it’s what the day celebrates! Books may have their own special magic, but the challenge is more literal, asking you to choose a title with supernatural or magical elements (see the Chapter Chats review for one of the suggested titles, Ink Blood Sister Scribe by Emma Törzs).

No matter how you love to read – on the page, on the screen, or by listening to an audiobook – National Book Lovers Day is for you! Stop by the library in person or via the catalog to find a new or favorite title, and keep reading all year with your booklet of reading adventures.

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

Graphics of four hands against brightly colored segments, showing the ASL letters: D, E, A, F. With text Deaf History Month, March 13 - April 15, 2005.

Deaf History Month

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Graphics of four hands against brightly colored segments, showing the ASL letters: D, E, A, F. With text Deaf History Month, March 13 - April 15, 2005.

by Brandon B.

During March, we celebrate Deaf History Month as an opportunity to highlight the extraordinary achievements of the hearing impaired and deaf community. The first public school for the Deaf opened on April 15, 1817. Since 1997, the National Association of the Deaf has promoted National Deaf History Month, in partnership with the American Library Association.

You can browse our diverse collection on American Sign Language and other resources by visiting hclibrary.org. You can also find accessibility resources, request an interpreter for in person classes, or browse the Maryland Deaf Culture Digital Library at bit.ly/hcls-accessibility.

Throughout history, people have refused to allow their hearing disability to keep them from achieving excellence, furthering the cause for all Deaf people. Helen Keller was an advocate for the disabled and the women’s suffrage movement. Keller’s autobiography, The Story of My Life, chronicles her profound experiences, as well as her activism as a member of the socialist party of America and founding member of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Another great person to celebrate is Oscar Award-winning actress Halle Berry. In 2001, Berry won the Oscar for best actress in a supporting role in the film Monster’s Ball. She lost eighty percent of her hearing due to a traumatic incident but continues to have success in her field.

Former President of the United States William Jefferson Clinton often encourages people to pursue medical treatment for hearing loss. He is speaking from experience. According to experts, Bill Clinton lost his hearing because of many years of listening to loud music.

Regardless of your race, gender or background, the library values everyone. You can visit any of the HCLS branches, where you will find staff members who will be eager to assist you.

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

A photo of the top half of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial, taken against a bright blue sky. Dr. King is portrayed looking stern, with his arms crossed, holding rolled up papers.

Celebrating Dr. King

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A photo of the top half of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial, taken against a bright blue sky. Dr. King is portrayed looking stern, with his arms crossed, holding rolled up papers.

by Brandon B.

On January 20, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who made heroic efforts to end segregation and inequality despite tremendous adversity. Dr. King remains a significant figure of the Civil Rights Movement, who fought for peace, equity, and justice for all individuals until his tragic death on April 4, 1968. On November 2, 1983, Ronald Reagan signed legislation, setting the holiday for the third Monday in January. Through peaceful protests, such as the March on Washington, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and the founding of the NAACP, minorities claimed their rights and privileges as outlined in the United States Constitution.

HCLS offers numerous books, videos, and online resources on the history of the Civil Rights Movement. The 2015 film Selma illustrates how Dr. King, John Lewis, and others led sit-ins and marched across Alabama and throughout the South, fighting for the right to vote. When you visit the Equity Resource Center at HCLS Central Branch, browse for books, CDs, and DVDs that highlight diversity and inclusion.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is an opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and to serve your community. Consider your favorite community organizations and see what they have planned for the national day of service. If you need suggestions, take a look at local nonprofit organizations, such as the Boys and Girls Club, Meals on Wheels, The Bea Gaddy Family Centers Inc., and in your community.
In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands at times of convenience but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Let us continue Dr. King’s legacy by doing our part to make this world better and allow HCLS to help guide us through the process.

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

A faded black and white photo of raised hands sits beneath text that read Democracy is everyone's business. Provided by the ALA Reader. Voter. Ready campaign.

Prepare for the Election

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A faded black and white photo of raised hands sits beneath text that read Democracy is everyone's business. Provided by the ALA Reader. Voter. Ready campaign.

by Brandon B.

Elections can be an intellectually and emotionally tough subject to discuss. Howard County Library System has resources to help you make an educated decision before heading to the polls in November. Visit any of your local HCLS branches for books, resources, and events to evaluate candidates’ positions on critical issues. Our library collection includes materials from many perspectives and priorities. Many candidates have authored (or co-authored) books.

The upcoming election is crucial to the future of our country, as are all elections. Not only will we elect a new president and vice president, but also the makeup of Congress will change. Locally, we’re voting for our Howard County Board of Education. Attend one of the Speed Date the Board of Education Candidates sessions listed below to meet the people running for these important positions and ask questions.

Misinformation, disinformation, and AI deepfakes make it more important than ever to do your research for fact-based, nonpartisan information from trusted sources. The League of Women Voters publishes a nonpartisan voter guide with information about candidates, ballot questions, and polling places. The Maryland State Board of Elections (elections.maryland.gov) provides answers to frequently asked questions, links to request absentee ballots, forms to sign up to be election judges, and more. FreeState Justice is partnering with HCLS to offer a series of classes about voter rights, voting policies, and other information.

Only 27 percent of Howard County residents voted in the 2022 midterm elections, so take advantage of these resources to prepare and make informed decisions in the voting booth. Exercise your vote this fall – it’s important!

Voter Rights and Current Voting Policies
For teens and adults. Register at bit.ly/voter_rights_HCLS
Gain insight into the voting process with up-to-date information about voter rights, requirements, and more. Learn about recent changes to voting laws, understanding voting districts, determining polling places, same-day registration, and more. Whether you are a first-time voter or a seasoned participant, this seminar is the perfect resource to ensure you are up-to-date with current voting policies and procedures in Maryland.
In partnership with FreeState Justice, a non-profit organization
Fri ,Sep 13 from 4 – 5 pm | HCLS Elkridge Branch
Thu, Sep 19 from 2 – 3 pm | HCLS Central Branch
Thu, Sep 26 from 7 – 8 pm | HCLS Miller Branch (date change)

Speed Date the Board of Education Candidates
Meet the candidates in the Board of Education race at this speed dating style event. Following brief introductions by the candidates, visit each candidate and ask your questions. At the end of five minutes, we will ring a bell, and you will switch tables to visit another candidate. The League of Women Voters will be on hand to help people register to vote and answer questions about the voting process and the election ballot.
In partnership with the League of Women Voters of Howard County.
Saturday, September 21
11 am – 1 pm at HCLS Savage Branch | Districts 3 & 4
3 – 5 pm at HCLS East Columbia Branch | Districts 2 & 3
Saturday, September 28
1 – 3 pm at HCLS Glenwood Branch | District 5
1 – 3 pm at at HCLS Central Branch | District 4
Saturday, October 5
11 am – 1 pm at HCLS Miller Branch | Districts 1 & 5
3 – 5 pm at HCLS Elkridge Branch | Districts 1 & 3

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

Multicolored big chrysanthemum fireworks against a black sky.

Your Freedom to Read

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Multicolored big chrysanthemum fireworks against a black sky.

by Brandon B.

The Fourth of July holiday commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which proclaimed our intent to form a new nation. Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness has always been the fabric of the American dream. Celebrate Independence Day with a parade, spend time with friends and family, enjoy a delicious hot dog or burger from the grill, and sip on an ice-cold snowball. Conclude the night with spectacular fireworks, with all the sparkling colors on display, all in celebration of the many freedoms of our country.

When we fought for and won our independence, our Founding Fathers enshrined important guarantees in the Constitution’s Bill of Rights. First among them, the freedom of press, speech, and assembly. On April 25, 2024, Governor Wes Moore signed the Maryland Freedom to Read Act into law. This new law requires all libraries to adopt a collection development policy that complies with State standards to qualify for funding. What does that mean? Libraries cannot exclude materials from their collection or remove them based on partisan or doctrinal disapproval, or because of the origin, background, or views of the person who created the material. The Act also protects library staff by prohibiting governing bodies from retaliating against employees who act in a manner consistent with the State standards, which will be developed by the State Library.

The Freedom to Read Act reaffirms the constitutional principle that library materials, services, and resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all persons the library serves. Why was this needed? According to the American Library Association, a record 4,240 unique book titles were targeted for censorship in 2023, a 65 percent increase over the 2,571 unique titles targeted in 2022 and a staggering 128 percent increase over 2021 numbers. In Maryland, 148 titles were challenged — making it one of 17 states to exceed 100. Forty-seven percent of the nationally-targeted books were titles representing the voices and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals.

No individual’s interests and beliefs should dictate what the community has access to. Libraries have always been and continue to be committed to the First Amendment and to providing collections and events that represent differing views. We welcome everyone as they explore their interests without judgment or fear of reprisal.

A sepia toned photograph of the Supreme Court building, with a Black woman and child sitting on the steps holding a newspaper, "High

As you celebrate Independence Day and reflect on our freedoms, explore these or other books and resources that continue the conversation about our country, its history, and future.

Happy 4th of July and happy reading!

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

PSA ad: a young Black woman wearing glasses looks down at her cell phone while her other arm is full of books. A blue square to the left says: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Talking about Teen Mental Health

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PSA ad: a young Black woman wearing glasses looks down at her cell phone while her other arm is full of books. A blue square to the left says: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

by Brandon B.

During National Mental Health Awareness Month each May, and throughout the year, you can find a wealth of resources at the library. Many teenagers may suffer from mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Some teens might feel isolated, bullied, or ostracized from society. If you are looking for a place to belong, we have created a safe and friendly environment just for you.

Are you looking for a fun and free spot to hang out after school? Your local branch is always looking forward to seeing you. At HCLS East Columbia Branch, you can interact with other teens for fun and excitement most afternoons. Do you have anxiety about math or need assistance with your homework? You can get assistance with your math studies and face your fear of arithmetic at Central Branch from 4-5 pm on Tuesdays. For high school students, final exams are soon! Miller and Elkridge Branches offer a chance to de-stress with some friendly, furry faces.

According to a New York Times article, you can cope with your mental health issues in some simple ways. Just 20 minutes of exercise can relieve stress, or you can use meditation techniques like deep breathing exercises. If you are truly feeling overwhelmed with life challenges, you need to find a trusted adult (parent, teacher, counselor) to talk with. If you are thinking about doing harm to yourself or others, call the national suicide hotline at 988 to talk to a mental health professional. For a local connection, call the Grassroots 24-hour Crisis Line at 410.531.6677.

Tutoring Tuesdays: Math Made Easy!
Ages 11–18. Register here.
Do you struggle with math homework or tests? Do you want to improve your math skills and confidence? If you answered yes, then this is the perfect class for you! Middle school and high school students can get extra help or practice with math topics in middle school math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, and Algebra 2.
Tuesdays; May 7 – Jun 4
4 – 5 pm  
Central Branch

Teen Chill Room: Dog Cafe
For high school students, but 11 & up are welcome. Walk-in only.
Finals stressing you out? Take a peaceful brain break in the Teen Chill Room, and return to studying feeling refreshed.
Spend time unwinding with loving, furry friends. Pets on Wheels certified therapy dogs, along with their trainers, bring calm and smiles to busy a midterm week.
Mon, Jun 10
3 – 4 pm
Miller Branch
De-stress with Pets
Sat, Jun 8
2 – 3 pm
Elkridge Branch – Registration opens June 1 at 2 pm.

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

Red ekg heartbeat line includes a heart.

Setting New Year’s Goals

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Red ekg heartbeat line includes a heart

by Brandon B.

Are you ready to make 2024 your best year? The new year can bring a level of optimism, excitement, and stress to some. Setting unrealistic New Year’s resolutions can be exhausting, so keep your expectations realistic. No matter if you are looking to improve your mental, spiritual, and physical health, you can visit us in person or online. To accomplish your goals for 2024, you have to adopt a clear mindset, so you can achieve the right philosophies and produce the right results.

Disruptive Thinking by Bishop T.D. Jakes offers guidance in having a strategy, spiritual guidance, and plan for the new year. If you are interested in improving your leadership and interpersonal skills, consider author John C. Maxwell to help you improve these talents.

Are you ready to burn off a few extra holiday pounds from all of those delicious meals and desserts? You can find great suggestions in our health collection, which focuses on fitness, nutrition, and many forms of exercise such as weight lifting, cycling, walking, and running. The late great Suzanne Somers’ books and videos may inspire you to get your body into great shape. Nutrition plays a major role in weight loss and management. Author Dr. Ian Smith focuses on nutrition and meal plans, and offers advice for an individual to burn fat and make lifestyle changes.

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

Photo looks down at a group of people holding an American Flag.

The Fourth of July from Many Points of View

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Photo looks down at a group of people holding an American Flag.

by Brandon B.

Happy Independence Day!

As you celebrate, take the opportunity to include the library. The Fourth of July holiday commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence, in which the American colonies sought their freedom from England’s authority. The Equity Resource Center located at our Central Branch provides access to information on famous people like Ida B. Wells, Malcolm X, and Gandhi. In addition, you can borrow great films that celebrate freedom and equality such as, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, Schindler’s List, Philadelphia, and Freedom Writers.

As people traveled to America to embark on a new journey, they came from all races and cultures to find life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Unfortunately, everyone’s journey to the United States was not a pleasant experience. In Frederick Douglass and the Fourth of July by James A. Colaiaco, he illustrates the extraordinary story of a slave turned distinguished gentleman.

Black and white print of Frederick Douglass in profile, wearing a suit with full head of bushy hair and beard.

Born in Maryland to a white father and black mother, Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist who taught himself how to read and write, which almost cost him his life. Through self-education and resilience, Douglass became one of the greatest orators and writers in American history. Frederick Douglass was invited to speak to the citizens of Rochester, New York on July 5, 1852 at the Corinthian Hall. In the speech that would be later entitled “What, to the Slave, is the Fourth of July,” Douglass explained how it was difficult to celebrate a holiday that symbolizes freedom and independence for Americans, even when many blacks were lynched, beaten, and sold as property. Douglass states in his speech, “What, to the American slave, is your 4th of July? I answer; a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim.”

You can read this speech and others in Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave by Frederick Douglass; edited with an introduction by Ira Dworkin, which is available in many formats.

In another great read, The Politics of Belonging: Race, Public Opinion, and Immigration by Natalie Masuoka discusses America’s long-debated immigration laws. It tackles how families and cultures can find their place in American society, even through racial barriers and unforeseen obstacles.

As you enjoy your great family barbecues, parades, concerts, and spectacular fireworks shows, consider what look the Fourth of July looks like from many points of view.

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.

Juneteenth: Freedom Day appears inside a yellow square atop swashes of color in red, black, green, and yellow.

Celebrating Juneteenth

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Juneteenth: Freedom Day appears inside a yellow square atop swashes of color in red, black, green, and yellow.

by Brandon B.

What greater place to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday than with the library? Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) is the day on which federal troops traveled to Galveston, Texas in 1865 to free all enslaved people. Even though this happened two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, we honor Juneteenth as the day that slavery officially ended everywhere in the U.S.

Since 2021, Juneteenth marks the federal holiday when we celebrate Black freedom and liberation. However, we still have a way to go toward true equity, with continued violence toward Black people by law enforcement, discrimination in job and housing opportunities, and the lingering consequences of slavery. In addition, many school districts have now decided to pull Black authors and titles from their curriculum due to fear of critical race theory. If you have an HCLS library card, you have the opportunity to acquire knowledge which can facilitate change.

At Central Branch, visit our Equity Resource Center which offers inspirational books, DVDs, and audio materials for all ages. One informative book to read is The Kaepernick Effect: Taking a Knee, Changing the World by Dave Zirin, which explains how former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick risked his career and became an activist for Black social justice. Another great read is the 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones, which provides an historical analysis of the first people of African descent who arrived in the U.S.

Juneteenth by R.J. Bailey gives children a great understanding of why Juneteenth is significant. Ways to Welcome by Linda Ashman is another wonderful children’s book, illustrating how creating a friendly and welcoming environment can have a lasting impact on a child’s life.

At the end of the day, Juneteenth is also an opportunity for the country to heal and reflect. Can America cure our racial divide? Or do we just continue to live our lives, business as usual? Please consider these ideas and thoughts as you enjoy and celebrate this Juneteenth holiday.

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.