Discover Howard County Library’s New Social Engagement Stations This Fall
Learn. Grow. Connect. (And Win Prizes!) at Every HCLS Branch
Hi friends! You know how much I love finding free, family-friendly things to do in Howard County, and this one is too good not to share. Howard County Library System just launched their brand-new Social Engagement Stations at every single branch, and they’re basically a mix of interactive art, photo booth, and community story-sharing all rolled into one.
The idea is simple but really fun: each branch has created its own unique station that brings the HCLS motto, Learn. Grow. Connect., to life. You can snap a photo, add your own story to the display, and even enter to win exclusive HCLS swag.
Here’s what makes it especially cool: every branch has something different to highlight. So, if you’re like me and always looking for an excuse to pop into more than one library location, this is the perfect fall adventure.
What You’ll Find at Each Engagement Station
Each branch has designed a photo-friendly installation that showcases what makes it unique.
Miller Branch: Step into the magic of the Enchanted Garden
Elkridge Branch: Explore hands-on fun in the DIY Education Center
Central Branch: Reflect and be inspired in the Equity Resource Center & Art Collection
East Columbia Branch: Say hello to global adventures at the Passport Center
Glenwood Branch: Build and tinker in the Makerspace & Builder’s Barn
Savage Branch: Dive into discovery in the STEAM Education Center
No two stations are the same, which honestly makes me want to visit all six.
How to Participate (and Win!)
It’s super easy to join in:
Visit any HCLS branch between September 2 – November 2.
Take a photo with the engagement station.
Post it on Instagram (feed or story).
Tag @hocolibrary and use #ConnectHCLS.
Make sure your profile is public so they can see your entry.
Bonus tip: the more branches you visit, the more chances you have to win.
And if you’re not up for posting on social media, you can still join by adding your perspective right at the station, each one includes a way for you to share how you learn, grow, and connect.
Why I Love This
As a mom, I’m always looking for simple outings that get us out of the house, spark creativity, and don’t cost a dime. These stations check all the boxes. They’re interactive, fun for kids (and adults!), and a great reminder that the library is so much more than books.
Plus, let’s be honest, I’m not going to say no to a free chance at some library swag.
Ready to Explore?
Grab the kids, a friend, or even just your phone and coffee, and head to your nearest Howard County Library branch. Make it a mini fall adventure, see how many engagement stations you can visit, take some fun photos, and share your story with the community.
Contest runs: September 2 – November 2
Prizes: Exclusive HCLS swag + bragging rights
Learn more here: Howard County Library’s Social Engagement Stations
I’ll be hopping around to check them out myself, so if you see me at a branch, say hi! Can’t wait to see how you Learn, Grow, and Connect at the library this fall.