Largo, Maryland –  The Prince George's County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) is pleased to announce several special events and initiatives to celebrate culture, encourage reading, and support education this October. The month begins with the second annual Festival of Cultures at the Hyattsville Branch Library (Saturday, October 1, 10:30 am-2 pm). All ages are welcome to enjoy performances, activities, and more. Other special initiatives include Maryland STEM Fest, a series of local and statewide programs for youth and families to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and Teentober, PGCMLS’ annual focus on teen engagement and enrichment through programs and service opportunities.

PGCMLS is also proud to participate in the annual One Maryland One Book statewide read program, presented by Maryland Humanities. The 2022 selection is “What’s Mine and Yours” by Naima Coster.

“Library staff have developed a vibrant array of engaging programs for October that will inspire a lifelong love of reading and learning, '' said Nicholas A. Brown, Acting Co-Chief Executive Officer. “Whether you are a teen interested in preparing for college applications or a voracious reader looking for a book club, the Library has something for everyone’s interests.”

Festival of Cultures 

PGCMLS presents the Festival of Cultures to highlight these communities' contributions to the area. The celebration will be a family event to enjoy storytime, crafts, performances by Ayelen Dance Group, and Washington Toho Koto Society. The event will occur at the new Hyattsville Branch Library on October 1 at 10:30 am.

One Maryland One Book

In partnership with the PGCMLS Foundation and Prince George's County Office of Human Rights, the Library is thrilled to present One Maryland One Book. This program was created to connect readers through the same book and later participate in a discussion where they can share their experiences. This year's selection is "What's Mine and Yours" by Naima Coster. This book is a multigenerational saga featuring two North Carolina families who collide in ways neither is prepared for when Black students from the east side of the county are integrated into the predominantly white schools on the west side. Readers will follow these families over decades as they break apart and come back together. Customers can request their free copy by completing this form by October 8, 2022. Virtual book discussions will take place on:  

Wednesday, October 12, 7-8:30 pm

Tuesday, October 18, 6:30-8 pm

Wednesday, October 19, 6:30-7:35 pm

Teentober

PGCMLS offers teens the opportunity to be part of programs and educational services that support their growth and cognitive development. Some of the events and initiatives are developed entirely by teen volunteers through the Library's Teen Action Groups (T.A.G.), such as the second annual P.A.D. drive, which invites members of the public to donate personal femenine products, to benefit families in need. Items can be donated at all 19 branch libraries through October 31. From talent shows, games, parades, and learning how to write, teens can experience how to make a difference in the community. 

Some of the events include:

• Writing My Best Hip Hop...For Me! Workshop: Tuesday, October 4, 6-7:30 pm at the Spauldings Branch Library 
  
• Teens Create: Sharpie Sugar Skulls: Thursday, October 6, 4-5 pm at the Laurel Branch Library 
• Teen Writers' Group: Spooky Stories: Tuesday, October 11, 4-5:30 pm at the Largo-Kettering Branch Library 
• Need For Speed: Wednesday, October 12, 5 pm at the Hillcrest Heights Branch Library 
• Teen Book Discussion: 'Cemetery Boys' by Aiden Thomas: Friday, October 14, 3-4 pm at the Bowie Branch Library 
• Cosplay Parade: Saturday, October 22, 1-5 pm at the Hyattsville Branch Library 
• Teen Movie Night: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse: Tuesday, October 25, 5:30-7:30 pm at the Glenarden Branch Library

Visit for the list of events: Teentober

Maryland STEM fest

As part of the Library's program supporting and encouraging education in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, PGCMLS is organizing a variety of events to encourage participants to explore exciting science activities.  Students will demonstrate a willingness to try new technology and processes, sharing strategies for problem-solving positively,  such as building kits, robotics, circuits, and basic coding. 

Here are some of the feature events:

Futuremakers: Hypnotizers:

• Saturday, October 15,  1-2 pm at the  New Carrollton Branch Library 

Fizzle, Pop, Boom! Presented by The Science Guys of Baltimore:

• Saturday, October 22, 1-2 pm at the Accokeek Branch Library 
  

Dragons: Return of the Ice Sorceress: 

• Tuesday, October 25, 6:30-7:30 pm at the Laurel Branch Library  
• Wednesday, October 26, 6:30-7:30 pm at the Spauldings Branch Library 
• Saturday, October 29, 1-2 pm at the Bowie Branch Library 

STEM Fair:

• Tuesday, October 18, 4-5:30 pm at the Upper Marlboro Branch Library

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About the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System

The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) helps customers discover and define opportunities that shape their lives. The Library serves the 967,000+ residents of Prince George’s County, Maryland through 19 branch libraries, a 24/7 online library, and pop-up services throughout the community. PGCMLS is a responsive and trusted community-driven organization. Programs, services, and outreach activities serve book lovers, immigrants and refugees, job seekers, children, young professionals, seniors, and families alike. PGCMLS is the recipient of the 2021 Urban Libraries Council Top Innovator Award for Workforce and Economic Development. Learn more at pgcmls.info/about-us.