Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, November 1, 2022
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will offer free online workshops and one-on-one sessions geared toward assisting job seekers and entrepreneurs throughout November.
The schedule of workshops will include:

• Throughout November – Monday: 9:30-11:30 a.m. I.R.E. (Helping Individuals Reach Employment) Sessions – Virtual*. Meet virtually/confidentially one-on-one with a career counselor for advice and assistance with your job search. Register at
  • Monday, Nov. 7: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7395228
  • Monday, Nov. 14: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7395229
  • Monday, Nov. 21: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7395289
• Thursday, Nov. 3: 3-4 p.m. Careers in Cybersecurity – In Person. Wheaton Library, 11701 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. Professor Silvia Vargas, a professor in the cybersecurity program at Montgomery College-Germantown, will discuss careers and related in the growing cybersecurity field. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7274463.
• Grow Your Business with GoogleBusiness Innovation Series. In Person. Looking for a better way to manage your business? Join MCPL and the Latino Economic Development Center for this three-part series.
• Thursday, Nov. 3: 6-8 p.m. How to utilize Google Workspace for your Business. In Person Germantown Library, 19840 Century Blvd., Germantown. Learn how to utilize shared calendars, schedule meetings, collaborate in real-time with google documents, store and share files in the cloud and how to access other Google products. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7442756.
• Thursday, Nov. 10: 6-8 p.m. How to create and utilize Google Docs, Forms and Sheets for your Business. In Person. Germantown Library, 19840 Century Blvd., Germantown. Learn how to build a Google Form from scratch, how to access data, how to generate official business agreements utilizing Google Docs and how to create Google Sheets to create and track invoices. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7442756.
• Thursday, Nov. 17: 6-8 p.m. Creating a website for your Business with Google Sites. In Person. Germantown Library, 19840 Century Blvd., Germantown. Learn about the importance of having an established brand, using professional images, key items to include on webpages and how to build a Google Business website. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7443100.
• Monday, Nov. 7: 11:30 a.m. All about Google Workspace – with Senior Planet Montgomery. Virtual.* Curious about Google Workspace features? Fnd out more about Google’s most popular personal and work-related productivity tools. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7442509.
• Tuesday, Nov. 8: 1-2 p.m. Google Drive Basics. Virtual.* Learn how to use a cloud-based storage solution that allows you to save files online, access them anywhere from any smartphone, tablet or computer and collaborate with others. Session will review creating, saving and sharing documents created in Google Docs.  Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6812807.
• Tuesday, Nov. 15: 1-3 p.m. Job Search Strategies. Virtual.* Learn about best practices for conducting a job search. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7373679.
• Tuesday, Nov. 15: 6:30 -7:30 p.m. Montgomery College @ the Library:  Paying for Education and Training. Virtual.* Learn about Federal, State, institutional and private funding options for credit and noncredit classes in this workshop. Registration is required. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7425504.
• Tuesday/Thursday, Nov.15 and 17: 5:30-8 p.m. LinkedIn Boot Camp (Part I / Part II) – Virtual.* Two-session/two-day workshop focuses on the mechanics and strategy of using LinkedIn as a tool to conduct a successful job search. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7052954.
• Tuesday, Nov. 15. 10 – 11:30 a.m. Introduction to Entrepreneurship (English). Virtual.* Are you just starting your entrepreneurial journey? This workshop will cover the fundamentals of building a business and help you determine if you’re ready to become a small business owner. Presented in partnership with the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC). Registration required. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7269796.
• Wednesday, Nov.16: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. How to Apply for Jobs with Montgomery County Government. Virtual.* Learn about applying for jobs with Montgomery County Government. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6811713
• Wednesday, Nov. 16: 1-3 p.m. Interviewing for Success. Virtual.* Learn how to differentiate yourself from other candidates, be Zoom ready, package your experience, tell your story, be ready for challenging questions and feel more confident in your next interview. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7373759.
• Wednesday, Nov. 16: 6-8 p.m. The ABCs of Leasing Commercial Real Estate. In Person. Germantown Library, 19840 Century Blvd., Germantown. Learn to understand the key provisions of a commercial lease, the various ways that rent can be calculated in a commercial lease, provisions for improvements for a building space and how to negotiate lease and renewal terms. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7443407.

* An internet connection and a device (such as a smartphone, tablet or computer) are required for participation.

For more information about programs, contact Adrienne van Lare at [email protected].

# # #

Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) is teaming up with the Washington Wizards to encourage reading for fun. MCPL will share great reads with children and families by recommending three books that the library and Wizards community can read together.

The Washington Wizards Book of the Month programwill feature one book for readers grades K-2, one book for readers grades 3-5 and one book for readers grades 6-8 to explore each month. The books will be great for kids to read alone or for families to read together.

Montgomery County joined this program on Oct. 1. MCPL’s October selections can be found at Montgomery (dcfamily.com).

Books are available at libraries and, in instances when MCPL owns electronic copies, online. Each title has a “Check Out” link that directs customers to all MCPL holdings for the title.

Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts about the books on social media with @MCPL_Libraries and @JrWizards, using hashtag #WizardsBookoftheMonth!

“We are excited to partner with the Montgomery County Public Libraries for our Wizards Reading Zone and Book-of-the Month programs in an effort to encourage and fuel our young fans’ imagination,” said Cathy Jerome, senior director of marketing for the Wizards.

“The Washington Wizards are a part of life for many in Montgomery County, and we are so thrilled to team up with them on their Book of the Month program,” said MCPL Director Anita Vassallo. “This program is a fun way to inspire our young readers and their families.”

MCPL joins the D.C. Public Library, Prince George’s County Memorial Library System, the Alexandria Library and Fairfax County Public Libraries as partners in the program.

For more information about the Washington Wizards Book of the Month program, contact Cassandra Malik at [email protected].

# # #

Per Montgomery County: The Aspen Hill Library in Rockville will remain open even as the facility undergoes a major roof replacement that will begin today, Monday, Oct. 17. Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) and the County’s Department of General Services (DGS) said the two-month project will not interrupt services at the library. The Aspen Hill Library is located at 4407 Aspen Hill Rd. in Rockville.

After several roof leaks became prominent last winter, DGS evaluated the existing roof structure and determined that it needed to be replaced. The new roof will have simplified lines, which will provide a significant energy savings. “We anticipate the project taking eight weeks to complete,” said DGS Director David Dise. “However, over the course of the work, hidden conditions may be discovered which may require remedial attention prior to proceeding. We will keep the Aspen Hill community updated on the progress.”

MCPL Director Anita Vassallo said library users will benefit from the long-term impact of the project—and the work schedule that will allow the building to remain open. “We are pleased our Aspen Hill branch is undergoing this needed work,” she said. “We are also glad the branch can remain open, providing services to our customers during this project.”

Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, September 20, 2022
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) has unveiled a new strategic plan effective Fiscal Year 2023 through Fiscal Year 2026. The new strategic plan defines MCPL’s core mission, values and community-centered vision for increasing equity in access and opportunity while identifying goal areas that will be the main focus over the next three years.

MCPL will continue to provide its core services for all, while working to achieve the goals in support of the following populations in particular:

• Children 5 and under are ready for kindergarten.
• Teens are ready for college and/or the workforce, and to be lifelong users of the library.
• Speakers of languages other than English can participate fully in American society.
• Residents with limited access to technology and/or the internet can navigate a digital world to get what they need.

To achieve these goals, MCPL will explore launching its strategic priorities at branches located in and around Equity Focus Areas. These are parts of the County that are characterized by high concentrations of lower-income people of color, who may not speak English as their first language.

“Residents in these areas targeted by the MCPL strategic plan are susceptible to systemic racial and social inequities,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Our libraries serve each of their communities in so many ways. Right now, certain communities need extra help and this plan puts MCPL on track to understand the needs of those communities and use its resources to make a major difference in the lives of people of all ages.”

MCPL partnered with the Montgomery County Innovation Team to engage community members and MCPL staff in identifying and prioritizing community needs for its strategic framework. Community members and staff shared their feedback through postcards, vision boards, focus groups and an online survey. The framework of the plan reflects the needs and desires of the community.

“Our strategic planning is an ongoing process,” said MCPL Director Anita Vassallo. “We will annually assess where we are with the plan’s actions and update it based on achievement and changing community needs.”

# # #

Per Montgomery County:
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will offer online workshops and one-on-one sessions geared toward assisting job seekers and entrepreneurs throughout September. All workshops are free.
The schedule of workshops and one-on-one sessions:

• Throughout September – Every Monday. 9:30-11:30 a.m. H.I.R.E. (Helping Individuals Reach Employment) Sessions – Virtual.* Meet virtually/confidentially one-on-one with a career counselor for advice and assistance with your job search. Register at
  • Monday, Sept. 19: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7129022
  • Monday, Sept. 26: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7129027
• Throughout September – Every Monday. 2-4 p.m. Job and Resume Help Program – In-person.
• Get help with your resume or job search. Staff at the Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Library in Silver Spring will point you to relevant resources.
  • Monday, Sept. 19: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7119175
  • Monday, Sept. 26: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7119176
• Tuesday, Sept. 20: 10-11:30 a.m. Introduction to Entrepreneurship (English) – Virtual.* Maryland Women’s Business Center. Workshop will cover the fundamentals of building a business and help determine if you are ready to become a small business owner. Presented in partnership with the Maryland Women’s Business Center. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7129498.
• Tuesday/Thursday, Sept. 20 and 22. 5:30-8 p.m. LinkedIn Boot Camp (Part I / Part II) – Virtual.* This popular two-session/two-day workshop focuses on both the mechanics and strategy of using LinkedIn as a tool to conduct a successful job search. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7050260.
• Wednesday, Sept. 21: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. How to Apply for Jobs with Montgomery County Government – Virtual.* Learn about applying for jobs with Montgomery County Government. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6811608.
• Monday, Sept. 27: 1-3 p.m. Job Search Strategies (in a Pandemic) – Virtual.*
• Learn about best practices for conducting a job search in the current (pandemic) job market.
• Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7140581.
• Tuesday, Sept. 28: 1-3 p.m. How to Prepare for your Virtual Job Interview – Virtual.*
• Learn how to differentiate yourself from other candidates, be Zoom ready, package your experience, tell your story, be ready for challenging questions and feel more confident in your next interview. Register at https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/7140739

* An internet connection and a device (such as a smartphone, tablet or computer) are required for participation.

For more information about programs, contact Adrienne van Lare at [email protected].

Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Friday, August 26, 2022
“Launchpads,” which are tablets designed specifically for children from preschool age through sixth grade, are now being loaned through a new program of Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL). The program will have four County libraries loaning the pre-loaded tablets that are only available through public libraries and do not require Wi-Fi or internet.

Launchpads are populated with carefully chosen content of various themes including educational apps, games, videos, stories and activities focusing on specific topics.

Launchpads will be available from the MCPL branches of Long Branch, Maggie Nightingale, Marilyn Praisnerand White Oak. Customers can place holds on the Launchpads to have them transferred to their closest MCPL branch for pick up.

The content available is:

• “Early Literacy” for emerging readers.
• “Language Learning” for an introduction to languages and cultures.
• “Math” from fundamentals through elementary skills.
• “Pre-K Academy” to help children prepare for kindergarten.
• “Reading Academy” to help children with verbal, reading, comprehension and writing skills.
• “STEAM Academy” to help children become problem solvers and make connections between their everyday world and science, technology, engineering, art and math concepts

In addition to the benefits of the curated activities, using the tablets will help children learn, practice and improve their digital literacy skills—a key component of a 21st Century education.

Customers can borrow up to five Launchpads at a time, complete with charging cable.

Launchpads can be checked out with a library card for a three-week lending period. They can be returned to any branch in person or in the book drop. If there is not a waitlist, Launchpads can be renewed a maximum of three times.

For a complete listing and descriptions of all the Launchpads, and to check availability or place a hold, consult MCPL’s online catalog.

Montgomery County is the eighth county in Maryland to participate in the Launchpad program.

For more information about the program, contact Rachel Rappaport at [email protected].

Per Montgomery County:
Workshops and one-on-one sessions geared toward assisting job seekers and entrepreneurs will be available throughout July. All workshops are free. Most are offered virtually. They are sponsored by Montgomery County Public Libraries.

Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Thursday, June 9, 2022
The Montgomery County Public Libraries’ (MCPL) Summer Reading Challenge! is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, June 15. This year’s theme is “Oceans of Possibilities.” Children and teens are invited to sign up online or in-person at any branch.

MCPL’s Summer Reading Challenge! offers children and teens a chance to fill their summer with great books and fun learning activities, as well as in-person and virtual events. This year, MCPL and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation are greening up Summer Reading by keeping plastic out of the waste stream. As children read and complete missions, MCPL will help plant trees, restore oyster beds, and improve animal habitats throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

An indoor-outdoor Kick-off event will be held on Saturday, June 18 at the Rockville Memorial Library. The event will include:

• A Chesapeake Bay Foundation hands-on educational table
• Strolling magician Abracadabra Alex
• Summer Reading Challenge! signups and book giveaways
• Craft tables

Participating is easy:

• Sign up (or log in) online beginning June 15
• Read books and do activities to earn online badges and complete missions
• (Optional) Print an Early Literacy or Elementary School Age game board at home or pick one up at your local library.
• Take our survey (English or Spanish) when you’ve finished the program. Your voice counts!

Summer Reading Challenge!, which runs through Aug. 31, is generously sponsored by Friends of the Library, Montgomery County, Inc.

For more information about the program, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/library.

Per MCPL:
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) is offering online workshops and one-on-one sessions geared toward assisting job seekers and entrepreneurs throughout May. All workshops are free and offered virtually.  An internet connection and a device (such as a smartphone, tablet or computer) are required for participation.

Per Montgomery County:

For Immediate Release: Monday, April 11, 2022

Five-session classes about cartooning and creating a graphic novel will be offered free by Montgomery County Public Libraries during April and May. The classes will be facilitated by cartoonist, illustrator, and animator Leila Cabib.

Registration and attendance for all five sessions in each class are required. Space is limited in both classes. Art supplies for use during the classes will be provided to attendees.

Cartooning (50 plus) – Virtual – Fridays, April 22, April 29, May 6, May 13, and May 20. 10 – 11 a.m.

Create original characters, caricatures, one-panel gag cartoons, and comic strips. Five-session class designed for residents 50 and older. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6438279

Create a Graphic Novel (for ages 10-15) – In-person, Wheaton Library, 11702 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring – Saturdays, April 23, April 30, May 7, May 14, and May 21. 10:30 a.m. – noon.

Write and illustrate your own graphic novel page. Five-session class for residents ages 10-15. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6438582

Both classes have been funded in part by a Wheaton Cultural Project Grant from the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County.

For more information about either class, contact Clotilde Puértolas at [email protected].