Episode Summary: Reading to dogs, Python coding, yoga? While MCPL still provides many much-beloved storytimes, our programming has become a lot more diverse. Assistant Director Mary Ellen Icaza and Library Associate Laura Sarantis talk about the innovative events happening at an MCPL branch near you. And don't forget, all MCPL programs are free of charge!

Recording Date: March 7, 2018

Hosts: Lauren Martino and David Payne

Guests: Mary Ellen Icaza and Laura Sarantis

Featured MCPL Resource: Yoga, Tai Chi, career workshops, computer use help, and more. MCPL offers an incredible variety of programs for our customers.

What Our Guests Are Reading:

Mary Ellen Icaza: Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

Laura Sarantis: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot and The Path Between the Seas by David McCullough

Library Programs Mentioned During this Episode:

The Big Read: MCPL and its partners will host a series of events: book discussions, author talks, exhibits, and cultural events centered around the immigrant experience in the DC area and Dinaw Mengestu's book The Beautiful Things That Heaven Bears.

Computer and Technology Classes, and One-On-One Instruction: MCPL's technology programs include downloading e-books, computer basics, and using tablets like the iPad.

Contemporary Conversations: Join MCPL for discussions about cultural and current issues with journalists, authors, and other speakers. Our next speaker is Dinaw Mengestu, author of the book The Beautiful Things That Heaven Bears.

Conversation Clubs: Practice speaking English in a friendly, informal environment. Available at branches throughout the County.

Girlhub: Python Programming: Teens, learn more about computer programming through fun lessons about Python, HTML, and MIT Scratch. Register up to June 30, 2018. Hosted by high school robotics team 5421 RM'd and Dangerous.

Girls in Engineering: Work with other students to build bridges, create robots, and more.

Girls Just Want to Compute: Learn how to code, create, and work with other students interested in coding.

Job and Career Programs and Resources: From resume writing and interviewing skills to career exploration, MCPL has programs and resources to help you get a job or advance your career.

Knitting and Crocheting Clubs: Beginners and experienced knitters come together at branches throughout MCPL to learn about and share their love for the craft.

Makerspace Programs: Amateur radio, blimps, origami - there are programs for all kinds of makers at MCPL.

MoComCon: MCPL's comic convention. The second annual MoComCon took place this past January. See pictures from this event.

Read to a Dog: School-aged children, especially beginner readers, can boost confidence in their reading skills by reading aloud to a friendly, certified therapy dog. Available at branches throughout the County.

STEM Programs: From Archimedes to architecture, MCPL has many programs to promote interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Tai Chi and Yoga: Practice tai chi or yoga at a MCPL branch near you. Most of these programs are designed with the beginner in mind, so no experience is necessary.

Other Items of Interest:

Program Suggestion Form: Interested in doing a program for MCPL? Please complete this form with details of your suggested program.

Read the transcript