News & Press Releases – Charles County Public Library

CCPL Upgrades Tech Access with New Computers and Mobile Lab

marianne — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:00:23 +0000

David M. Higgins, II, Publisher/Editor

March 4, 2026

The Charles County Public Library (CCPL) is advancing digital equity across Southern Maryland by replacing all public access computers systemwide and deploying a new Mobile Computer Lab to deliver technology directly to underserved residents.

The library completed a full refresh of public computers at its branches in recent months, as confirmed in trustee meeting minutes from November 2025 noting replacements at La Plata and P.D. Brown branches, with Potomac scheduled shortly after. This upgrade provides patrons with modern, dependable devices essential for essential tasks like employment applications, educational work, government services, and communication. The initiative addresses wear from heavy daily use and ensures reliable performance for community members who rely on library technology.

Complementing the refresh, CCPL introduced its Mobile Computer Lab, featuring 15 laptops plus portable tables and chairs for setup in various locations. Funded through a grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Maryland Computer Lab Program (MD-CLP), the lab targets barriers to digital access faced by vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities, those experiencing homelessness, and individuals who are incarcerated or returning to society. The lab operates via the library’s outreach vehicles, bringing services beyond traditional branch walls.

Current deployments include the Charles County Detention Center, Angel’s Watch, and LifeStyles Homeless Services Center, where the setup supports digital literacy, job readiness, and other programming. The Mobile Library vehicle, described on the CCPL site as a 26-foot unit bringing books, technology, and programs to communities, facilitates these efforts.

To maximize resource impact, CCPL donated decommissioned yet functional computers from the replacement project to local nonprofits. Recipients include LifeStyles Homeless Services Center, Choice Care (formerly the Catherine Foundation), Hope Behavioral Health, Stella’s Girls, and additional service organizations focused on residents facing critical challenges. This approach extends technology benefits while promoting sustainability.

KennethWayne Thompson, CCPL Executive Director, highlighted the dual initiatives’ value: “This project strengthens our ability to serve some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Through strong partnerships and responsible reuse of library technology, we are extending the impact of this investment well beyond our buildings.”

These efforts align with broader CCPL commitments to digital inclusion, community outreach, and strategic resource use in Charles County. The library’s Mobile Library continues regular stops and requests for services, enhancing reach across the region. No specific launch date for the Mobile Computer Lab appears in public records beyond its operational status, but it builds on existing outreach infrastructure.

For full details on CCPL programs, including how to access computers, request mobile services, or learn about donations, visit the official site.

The combined projects demonstrate proactive steps to bridge technology gaps in Southern Maryland, supporting education, employment, and civic participation for all residents.

Storytelling by local authors

marianne — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 12:00:41 +0000

Ilana Williams

March 3, 2026

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The Charles County Public Library invited the community to join for an uplifting afternoon of conversation, storytelling and celebration at “Black Voices, Bright Futures: Local Author Panel & Book Fair” at the Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center on Feb. 28.

The afternoon began with an author panel, moderated by local scholar and professor Caitlyn Socrates. Authors Brianna Peppins, Ravynn K. Stringfield and Charlene Thomas discussed their creative practices, cultural influences and how their identity and community shape their work.

Sharing unique perspectives

Local authors Ravynn K. Stringfield, left, Charlene Thomas and Brianna Peppins speak about how their creative practices, cultural influences and identity and community shape their work at Waldorf Senior and Recreation Center on Feb. 28. Caitlyn Socrates, right, a professor of English at the College of Southern Maryland, moderates the discussion. The event highlighted the work of DMV-based Black authors, each bringing their unique cultural perspectives and creative voices to the community.

Volunteers at the panel

Arielle Gilliam, 16, writes a detailed description about her time attending the “Black Voices, Bright Futures: Local Author Panel & Book Fair” for her volunteer assignment at the Waldorf Senior and Recreational Center on Feb. 28. Gilliam is a student at Westlake High School. The event highlighted the work of DMV-based Black authors, each bringing their unique cultural perspectives and creative voices to the community.

Looking engaged

Participants at the “Black Voices, Bright Futures: Local Author Panel & Book Fair” listen to local authors talk about how their experiences shape their work. The event was at the Waldorf Senior and Recreation Center on Feb. 28 and highlighted the work of DMV-based Black authors, each bringing their unique cultural perspectives and creative voices to the community.

Video: Finding inspiration

Author Charlene Thomas talks about Maya Angelou and other writers who inspire her work during a local author panel and book fair at the Waldorf Senior and Recreation Center on Feb. 28. View video here.

Time for a story

marianne — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:00:29 +0000

Madison Bateman

February 18, 2026

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Children’s author and educator Ada Ari hosts “African Storytelling Reimagined” at the La Plata branch library on Saturday. During the interactive event, children ages 6 to 11 were invited to learn about the stories, art and culture of the Ashanti kingdom of Ghana.

Library Lovers Month: Back Maryland’s Civic Gems

raymond — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:18:06 +0000

David M. Higgins II, Publisher/Editor

February 17, 2026

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Library Lovers Month: Back Maryland’s Civic Gems

Maryland Library Association Urges Residents to Support Public Libraries During February’s Library Lovers Month

February marks Library Lovers Month nationwide, spotlighting ways residents can support public libraries amid recent federal funding challenges and ongoing community value.

David Dahl, president of the Maryland Library Association, emphasized libraries’ enduring role: “Libraries are really a critical part of our civic infrastructure. We talk about libraries as being transformative to communities. If you think about it, it’s one of the few remaining places where you can go be who you are and make use of without making a purchase.”

Libraries serve as “third places”—free community gathering spots separate from home or work, similar to cafes or parks but accessible without cost. Dahl encouraged direct involvement: “If someone is in [a] position to donate financially to their library, that’s always needed. There are funding sources through the federal government and state and local funds, but there’s always more that’s needed. Then lastly, I think, asking how you can get involved and how you can support.”

Recent federal actions tested library support. In March 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order aiming to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the primary federal agency providing library grants. Legal challenges, including a lawsuit by 21 states’ attorneys general and the American Library Association, led to court injunctions halting dismantlement efforts, with a permanent block issued in late 2025. Grants were reinstated by December 2025.

Congress addressed funding in the FY2026 appropriations bills, signed by Trump earlier in February 2026. The legislation delivered a modest increase for library programs under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), raising it to $212.5 million—a $1.4 million boost—while maintaining level funding for related initiatives like school libraries. Overall IMLS saw a slight decrease tied to staffing reductions, but core library funding held firm against elimination proposals.

Maryland operates 24 public library systems, spanning single-branch to multi-location networks serving all counties, including those in Southern Maryland such as Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s. These systems deliver books, digital resources, programs, and community spaces essential for education, lifelong learning, and civic engagement.

Dahl noted libraries’ resilience relies on local action beyond federal dollars. Residents can show support by visiting branches, checking out materials, attending events, obtaining cards, thanking staff, or inquiring about volunteer, advocacy, or donation opportunities tailored to each system’s needs.

The observance aligns with broader celebrations, including proclamations in areas like St. Mary’s County, where commissioners declared February 2026 National Library Lovers’ Month on February 3 to recognize libraries’ contributions to education and connection.

Public libraries remain vital in Southern Maryland, providing free access that strengthens communities even as funding landscapes evolve. Direct outreach to local branches ensures support matches specific priorities, from collections to programs.

Books By Day, Magic By Night At Charles County Public Library’s After-Hours Event

raymond — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:23:07 +0000

Charles County Public Library

February 10, 2026

Link to News Article in PDF Format

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LA PLATA, Md. – The Charles County Public Library (CCPL) invites the community to attend A Magical Evening at the Library, a 21+ after-hours fundraising celebration. The event will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Waldorf West Branch, 10405 O’Donnell Place, Waldorf, MD. Doors open at 7:30 PM, with a special VIP Cocktail Hour beginning at 6:30 PM.

This year’s signature fundraising event will feature nationally recognized magician and mentalist Brian Curry, also known as The Good Liar. Known for his quick wit, clever humor, and impossible predictions, Curry delivers a high-energy performance that blends mind-reading, illusion, and storytelling. Guests will also enjoy delicious bites, beverages, and lively music provided by a guest DJ throughout the evening.

“A Magical Evening at the Library is a celebration of creativity, curiosity, and community,” said Shannon Bland, Development Manager of CCPL. “The funds raised through this event help support the programs, services, and collections that make our library a welcoming and transformative space for residents of all ages.”

Tickets are on sale now and available for purchase through Eventbrite. General Admission tickets include show admission and drink tickets, while VIP tickets offer early entry to the cocktail hour, reserved seating, additional drink tickets, and exclusive strolling magic with Brian Curry.

Proceeds from A Magical Evening at the Library support library programs, services, and collections that inspire learning, creativity, and connection throughout Charles County. Patron stories featured on the event webpage highlight the lasting impact CCPL has on individuals and families across the community.

Tickets and additional event information are available at ccplonline.org/ccpl-magic or directly through Eventbrite at amagicalevening.eventbrite.com/.

For sponsorship opportunities or questions about the event, please contact Shannon Bland, Development Manager, at fundraising@ccplonline.org.

To learn more, visit ccplonline.org/ccpl-magic/.

The Charles County Public Library creates opportunities for our community to engage, discover, and learn. CCPL comprises four library branches, a Mobile Library, the Discovery Lab, a 24-Hour Library Kiosk at the Nanjemoy Community Center, and a location inside the Charles County Detention Center. CCPL has over 80 full- and part-time employees. Our branches house over 200,000 volumes of printed materials, audiobooks, films, and other documents. We also have an online branch at ccplonline.org, where we regularly add new resources. Currently, over 75,000 county residents hold library cards, and this number continues to grow daily.

About Brian Curry

Brian Curry is a magician, mentalist, and award-winning performer based in Washington, DC. Known to audiences as The Good Liar, Curry has built a reputation for quick wit, sharp improvisation, and mind-bending illusions that create an unforgettable experience for every crowd. He has entertained guests across the region with a blend of humor, charm, and impossible feats that leave people amazed and delighted. Learn more at https://www.agoodliar.com/.