Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Monday, March 28, 2022
Montgomery County Public Libraries is offering online workshops and one-on-one sessions geared toward assisting job seekers and entrepreneurs throughout April. All workshops are free and offered virtually.
An internet connection and a device (such as a smartphone, tablet or computer) are required for participation.
Throughout April – Every Monday: 9:30-11:30 a.m. H.I.R.E. (Helping Individuals Reach Employment) Sessions
Sign up to meet virtually/confidentially one-on-one with a career counselor for advice and assistance with your job search. Register:
- Monday, April 4: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6205840
- Monday, April 11: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6205856
- Monday, April 18: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6205874
- Monday, April 25: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6205918
Monday, April 4: 1-3 p.m. Job Search Strategies (in a Pandemic)
Learn about best practices for conducting a job search in the current (pandemic) job market. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6376492
Wednesday, April 6: 1-3 p.m. How to Prepare for your Virtual Job Interview
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: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6376568
Tuesday, April 12: 1-2 p.m. Google Drive Basics
Learn how to use the cloud-based storage system Google Drive. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6342803
Tuesday, April 19: 10-11:30 a.m. Introduction to Entrepreneurship
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. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6377009
Tuesday/Thursday, April 19 and 21: 5:30-8 p.m. LinkedIn Boot Camp for 45+ Job Seekers (Sessions I and II)
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: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5958971
Wednesday, April 20: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. How to Apply for Jobs with Montgomery County Government
Find out everything you need to know about applying for jobs with Montgomery County Government. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5842237
Program Contact: Adrienne Van Lare, [email protected]
Per Montgomery County:
On Monday, Feb. 28, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich will be joined by Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando, Montgomery County Public Libraries Director Anita Vassallo, Montgomery County Department of General Services Director David Dise, the Montgomery County Commission on Veterans Affairs, family members of Brig. Gen. Charles E. McGee, and others in a ceremony to sign a bill that will enable the County to rename the Silver Spring Library to the “Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Library.”
Brig. Gen. McGee, who passed away early this year at the age of 102, served as a fighter pilot and member of the 332nd Fighter Squadron, famously known as the “Tuskegee Airmen,” an all-Black unit in World War II, followed by combat missions in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He fought against racism and for equality his entire career and paved the way for many African American service members. A Montgomery County resident for many years, Brig. Gen. McGee prioritized learning and engaging with young people and served as a role model to Montgomery County residents and Americans. Brig. Gen. McGee passed away peacefully at his home in Bethesda on Jan. 16.
Parking is available, across the street, in the public parking lot at 921 Wayne Ave.
Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, February 15, 2022
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will expand hours of branch service to include Sundays effective Feb. 27.
“I am pleased to announce the continued expansion of hours to beyond pre-pandemic levels,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Our library system and employees have been an invaluable asset to our COVID response and recovery efforts over the last two years. They have successfully adjusted their operations, schedules, and how they serve the community. Most recently, their efforts to help us distribute take home rapid tests and N95 masks was a demonstration of their effectiveness and dedication to our residents. I also want to thank our patrons and supporters of our libraries for their patience as we worked to ensure that these facilities are COVID-19 safe and accessible for both visitors and employees.”
The Sunday hours of operation at all MCPL branches, except Maggie Nightingale (Poolesville) and Noyes Library for Young Children, will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The hours and schedule for Maggie Nightingale (currently closed for refresh) and Noyeslibraries will remain as they currently stand.
“We are pleased to be able to resume Sunday service hours,” said MCPL Director Anita Vassallo. “It is important that all residents have equal access to the resources and services provided by Public Libraries.”
For more information on MCPL services, please visit https://montgomerycountymd.gov/library/.
Per MCPD:
For Immediate Release: Monday, January 31, 2022
Montgomery County Public Libraries will host the following programs in observance of Black History Month. All programs are free and offered virtually. An internet connection and a device (such as a smartphone, tablet or computer) are required for participation.
Thursday, Feb. 3, 6 p.m. Jeopardy! Game for Black History Month
Do you like to play Jeopardy? Do you like history? If so, join us and get ready to have some fun!
Saturday, Feb. 5, 10 a.m. Janice the Griot, Storyteller
Why do tigers no longer live in Africa? How did Mama Mouse save her babies from the Cat? Janice the Griot tells African Folktales. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Montgomery County, Silver Spring Chapter.
Monday, Feb. 7, 7 p.m. The Fire of Frederick Douglass: A Presentation by Richard Bell
Explore Frederick Douglass’ impact on our modern struggle to advance the cause of black freedom in the United States with Richard Bell, Professor of History at University of Maryland, College Park.
Wednesday, Feb. 9, 1 p.m. Separate But Unequal – The History of School Segregation in Montgomery County
Historian Ralph Buglass will discuss the history and development of the segregated public schools, the practice of “separate but equal,” the importance of education to newly emancipated African Americans, and the process of desegregation in the mid-20th Century in Montgomery County.
Wednesday, Feb. 9, 6:30 p.m. Ask the Doctor: COVID-19 and Holistic Health
Do you have questions about COVID-19 and how to best support your holistic health during this pandemic? Join Dr. Fernando Porter and the Black Physicians and Healthcare Network for an open dialogue.
Thursday, Feb. 10, 6 p.m. Black History Month Trivia
Celebrate African American achievements throughout history by putting your knowledge to the test!
Saturday, Feb. 12, 2 p.m. The Three Reported Lynchings in Montgomery County
There are three documented cases of lynching in Montgomery County: George Peck, John Diggs-Dorsey and Sidney Randolph. Archivist Sarah Hedlund presents comprehensive narratives on these three cases.
Tuesday, Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m. African-American Authors in Science Fiction: A Panel Discussion
Learn about the experiences of African American authors in science fiction.
Saturday, Feb. 26, 11 a.m. Human Beatbox with Christylez Bacon
Join Grammy nominated Progressive Hip-Hop artist Christylez Bacon for a Human Beatbox program for children and families.
Sunday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m. Montgomery County’s Little-Known Rosenwald Schools – Presenter Ralph Buglass
Montgomery County once had 17 Rosenwald schools. Learn about the schools’ remarkable impact and importance, along with then-and-now photos of the five buildings that survive.
Attendees will need to be logged in to Zoom to attend all virtual program. A free account can be created on the Zoom website – https://zoom.us/signin.
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Per Montgomery County Public Libraries:
For Immediate Release: Friday, January 28, 2022
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) and Friends of the Library, Montgomery County, Inc. (FOLMC) will kick off Library Lovers Month with a special virtual celebration on Saturday, Feb. 5, at 11 a.m.
Maynard Okereke, the Hip Hop M.D., will present an ocean-themed virtual STEM program to inspire elementary school-aged youth by bridging the gap between science, music, and entertainment. Okereke communicates scientific topics with engaging energy and enthusiasm. Registration is required. Participants will receive the Zoom link via email upon registration.
To fully participate in the hands-on portion of the program, attendees will need the following common household supplies gathered and prepared in advance:
- Plastic container
- Two plastic cups
- Vegetable oil
- Salt
- Water
- Food coloring – red and blue
- Pipette or straw
Participants are invited to pick up an activity kit containing most of these items before the program at one of the following libraries: Aspen Hill, Connie Morella, Gaithersburg, Kensington, and Wheaton. Activity kits are limited and will be made available beginning Saturday (Jan. 29); participants should call ahead to confirm availability. For more information about the event visit www.folmc.org.
Library Lovers Month is held annually to celebrate and showcase the importance of libraries in Montgomery County. Throughout the month of February, library branches and FOLMC Chapters will host special virtual events and activities to celebrate libraries and highlight the variety of resources and services MCPL provides year-round. Library customers are also encouraged to fill out and submit an electronic form about why they love their library. These comments will be shared with elected officials.
Library Lovers Month Kickoff 2022 is sponsored in partnership with Friends of the Library, Montgomery County, Inc. and the Montgomery County Library Board.
Montgomery County announced today that the afternoon test kit distribution will now begin at 5pm.
Additionally, you can now get free at-home COVID-19 test kits delivered from COVIDtests.gov. Each household is eligible to order four free kits.
Updated hours! #COVID19 rapid test kit distribution taking place in the afternoons at select @MCPL_Libraries will now start at 5 p.m. Supplies continue to be limited and please continue to check ➡️ https://t.co/r5gZfmwYgm for updates. pic.twitter.com/ZBofxAhVBh
— Montgomery County MD (@MontgomeryCoMD) January 18, 2022
You can visit this site to see the amount of testing kits available at each site prior to going.
Below you’ll be able to see additional information regarding Covid-19 test kits at Montgomery County Public Libraries:
Bring a form of proof of residency. Examples include a Driver’s license, ID, or a bill that shows you are a resident of Montgomery County.
Kit pickup is inside each library. You might enter at a side entrance. If you come early, you may wait outdoors. The line moves fast. If you need support, please ask a site attendant.
Residents can get two kits per person per day. Each kit contains two tests.
How to use your rapid test kit
Rapid tests produce results 15 minutes after you complete all the steps.
- Read the instructions before beginning.
- Follow the steps to complete your test.
- Self-report your results.
Per Montgomery County:
County to Provide Rapid At-home Test Kits at Libraries Beginning Monday, Jan. 10
For Immediate Release: Friday, January 7, 2022
To make COVID-19 testing more available, Montgomery County residents can pick up free, rapid at-home test kits at any one of 19 Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) beginning Monday, Jan. 10. The iHealth COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test kits will be available on a first come, first served basis until supplies run out. Residents can receive a maximum of two test kits per person (each containing two tests) per visit.
The tests are recommended for asymptomatic people. People showing symptoms of COVID-19 should NOT go to a library distribution site and should contact their health care provider or make an appointment for a PCR test at one of the many locations providing testing throughout the community.
Library branches distributing kits from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday are:
Library branches distributing kits from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday – Thursday and 2 to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday are:
- Connie Morella (Bethesda)
- Germantown
- Kensington Park
- Long Branch
- Marilyn Praisner (Burtonsville)
- Olney
- Quince Orchard
- Rockville
- Twinbrook
- Wheaton
“Securing these tests, that are currently in great demand, will help our County mitigate community transmission from the Omicron variant surge,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “We appreciate the District of Columbia assisting us and thank our procurement team for their diligence to track down and acquire these tests. We are going to make sure these tests will be given out equitably and fairly throughout the community.”
The kits being distributed at County libraries were purchased directly by the County and deliveries will be ongoing for as long as supplies last and the Omicron surge continues. So far, the County has ordered nearly two million kits and 500,000 kits have been received so far.
“Rapid home tests for COVID-19 are important public health tools to help control the transmission of the virus and are more important than ever given the current spike in cases we are experiencing in our community,” said Council President Gabe Albornoz, who also serves as chair of the Council’s Health and Human Services Committee. “We encourage our residents to get tested and get boosted, while Councilmembers continue working with County Executive Elrich and our public health and emergency management teams to provide the resources needed to get our community through this latest phase of the pandemic.”
The iHealth Rapid Antigen test is an at-home test that enables a person to collect a specimen which shows whether the person has the nucleocapsid protein antigen from the virus which causes COVID-19. Test results are available in 15 minutes. Rapid test specimens are collected using a nasal swab. A swab is inserted into each nostril, one side at a time, the swab is then rotated around the inside of each nostril, to gather mucous. Detailed instructions on how to perform the self-test are included with each test kit.
In late November 2021, the County received 10,000 rapid test kits from the Maryland Department of Health and those kits were distributed to specific community-based organizations to be used for individuals identified as having an increased risk of exposure to COVID-19 or decreased access to available test sites because of their occupation, such as food service workers; their vaccination status or who live in areas of the community with lower vaccination rates; limited access to other testing resources due to access to health care, transportation or work hours; or due to a physical or developmental disability.
More information is available on the County’s COVID-19 testing page at www.MoCoCOVIDtesting.org.
Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will expand hours of branch service to the community effective Jan. 2.
“Our libraries are critical gathering epicenters throughout our communities where many residents rely on, not just access to books, but to the internet as well,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “I appreciate the work of our employees and I thank our residents and patrons of the library for their patience as we worked to ensure that our libraries are COVID safe and accessible for both visitors and employees.”
The hours of operation at all MCPL branches, except Maggie Nightingale (Poolesville) and Noyes Library for Young Children, will be:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday – 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, Saturday, Sunday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The hours and schedule for Maggie Nightingale (currently closed for refresh) and Noyes libraries will remain as they currently stand.
“One of my highest priorities is to work towards providing equity of service to our community members,” said MCPL Director Anita Vassallo. “By equalizing and restoring hours at all of our branches, we are taking a huge step in continuing this mission. I thank everyone who was involved in this process, as well as our customers for their patience.”
For more information on MCPL services, please visit https://montgomerycountymd.gov/library/.
Per Montgomery County Public Libraries:
For Immediate Release: Monday, December 27, 2021
Montgomery County Public Libraries is offering online workshops and one-on-one sessions geared toward assisting renters, job seekers and entrepreneurs throughout January. All workshops are free and offered virtually.
An internet connection and a device (such as a smartphone, tablet or computer) are required for participation.
Throughout January – Every Monday: 9:30-11:30 a.m. H.I.R.E. (Helping Individuals Reach Employment) Sessions
Sign up to meet virtually/confidentially one-on-one with a career counselor for advice and assistance with your job search. Register:
- Monday, Jan. 10: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5951849
- Monday, Jan. 24: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5966771
- Monday, Jan. 31: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5966773
Monday, Jan. 10: 1-3 p.m. Job Search Strategies (in a Pandemic)
Learn about best practices for conducting a job search in the current (pandemic) job market. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5966278
Tuesday, Jan. 11: 7-8 p.m. Supports and Options Available to Renters
Join professionals from two Montgomery County agencies, the Department of Housing and Community Affairs and the Department of Health and Human Services, for a discussion about options for struggling renters. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5949271
Wednesday, Jan. 12: 1-3 p.m. How to Prepare for your Virtual Job Interview
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: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5966787
Tuesday/Thursday, Jan. 18 and 20: 5:45-7:45 p.m. LinkedIn Boot Camp (Part I/Part II)
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: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5861344
Wednesday, Jan. 19: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. How to Apply for Jobs with Montgomery County Government
Find out everything you need to know about applying for jobs with Montgomery County Government. Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/5842508
Program Contact: Adrienne Van Lare, [email protected]
# # #
Montgomery County has announced that this Saturday’s MoCo Comicon, originally scheduled to be held at Germantown Library, will now be all digital due to increased spread of COVID-19.
Details below per MCPL:
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, January 11, 2022
Montgomery County Public Libraries will host its sixth free comic convention, MoComCon, this Saturday, Jan. 15. All MoComCon 2022 events will be virtual. The popular comic convention moved from a hybrid event to an all-virtual event due to the increased spread of COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. The comic convention is an all-ages event celebrating all things comics, graphic novels, and fandoms.
The schedule of events for Jan. 15 includes:
- Superhero Storytime, 10:30 – 11 a.m.
- Craft Demos, 11 – 11:45 a.m.
- Toy Design: From Screen to Shelf, noon – 1 p.m.
- Gamer Trivia, 1:15 – 2:15 p.m.
- Board Games: The Creative Process, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
- Art Contest Slideshow, 3:45 – 4 p.m.
Please contact Dana Alsup at [email protected] as soon as possible to request reasonable accommodations. Visit the MoComCon website for more information.
# # #
Per MCPL:
For Immediate Release: Monday, December 20, 2021
Montgomery County Public Libraries will host its sixth free comic convention, MoComCon, on Saturday, Jan. 15. MoComCon 2022 events will be both in-person at a new location, the Germantown Library located at 19840 Century Blvd. in Germantown, and virtual. The comic convention is an all-ages event celebrating all things comics, graphic novels, and fandoms.
The schedule of events for Jan. 15 include:
- Superhero Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Virtual
- Toy Design: From Screen to Shelf, Noon., In-person & Virtual
- Gaming Trivia, 1:15 p.m., In-person & Virtual
- Board Games: The Creative Process, 2:30 p.m., In-person & Virtual
- Cosplay Contests, 3:30 p.m., In-person
- Life-size Candyland, Noon, In-person
- Oculus Rift, Noon, In-person
- Games Unbound, Noon, in-person
Doors to the library will open at 10 a.m.
To request sign language interpretation or other deaf/hard of hearing services for library-sponsored programs, email [email protected], preferably with three business days’ notice, or submit a request online. To request other accommodations, contact your local library.
Visit the MoComCon website for more information. Program Contact: Dana Alsup, [email protected]
# # #
Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will expand hours of branch service to the community effective Jan. 2.
“Our libraries are critical gathering epicenters throughout our communities where many residents rely on, not just access to books, but to the internet as well,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “I appreciate the work of our employees and I thank our residents and patrons of the library for their patience as we worked to ensure that our libraries are COVID safe and accessible for both visitors and employees.”
The hours of operation at all MCPL branches, except Maggie Nightingale (Poolesville) and Noyes Library for Young Children, will be:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday – 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, Saturday, Sunday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The hours and schedule for Maggie Nightingale (currently closed for refresh) and Noyes libraries will remain as they currently stand.
“One of my highest priorities is to work towards providing equity of service to our community members,” said MCPL Director Anita Vassallo. “By equalizing and restoring hours at all of our branches, we are taking a huge step in continuing this mission. I thank everyone who was involved in this process, as well as our customers for their patience.”
For more information on MCPL services, please visit https://montgomerycountymd.gov/library/.
