Friends of MD State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled

10/10/2025

Hello everyone, it's Robyn, here:
I’m thrilled to share with you that thanks to your very generous support of our 6th Annual FMLBPD Laps For Literacy Braille Trail Hikeathon hikers, last Sunday we under a brilliant warm blue sky raised $850 for the Library’s critical programs for Marylanders with print disabilities! We deeply appreciate your contributions and hope that you’ll please continue to assist us with our future fundraising efforts for the MLBPD! Below are two photos that show our 2025 Hikeathon hikers on the PVSP All Sensory (braille) Trail.
All the best!
Robyn

10/07/2025

Hike for Literacy on a Perfect Afternoon!

Sunday, October 5 was a beautiful sunny day, and four intrepid hikers ventured forth to investigate the Braille Trail for our annual walk, led by Friend of LBPD Robyn Hughes. Accompanying her were her Mom Norma and her husband Bill, and Friend Janet Sanford. The Braille Trail is located in the Hilton Area of the Patapsco State Park in Catonsville, easy to find but somewhat out of reach for those without transportation. This year this reporter was pleased to discover that there were ornamental grasses of different textures and fragrant herbs growing in the raised planters, enabling the curious to smell and touch them to discover basil, thyme, and oregano. There were birds flying and singing, and the wind sighing in the trees and early leaves falling added to the auditory experience. After hiking several times around the trail we all enjoyed a picnic dinner and talked about libraries and travel. A good time, a gorgeous day, a beautiful park!

Images: Robyn Hughes reading the Braille sign; Robyn standing by the sign; Janet, Robyn and Norma; and Janet, Robyn, Norma, and Bill.

10/05/2025

TUG Meeting Announcement
Updated Event
This program will begin at 10 a.m. and will be recorded.

On Saturday, October 11, at 10 AM, the Technology User Group (TUG) is pleased to welcome Elizabeth Whitaker from Freedom Scientific, who will detail the latest changes in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion. She will review what’s new, what’s helpful, and what’s on the horizon with these products. She will also take a quick look at “Sharky,” the virtual assistant built into Freedom Scientific products.

The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last sixty minutes.

Who should attend?

All JAWS and ZoomText users
Individuals who are considering getting a Windows computer
People who want to learn more about voice navigation on the computer and the web
Call in Number:

1-301-715-8592
Meeting ID: 656 203 7293​ #


One tap mobile
+13017158592,,6562037293 #

Webcast:

Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise cloud communications.

10/05/2025

The Cat Librarian’s October Book Box
Chills and Thrills Await You!
Calling all avid youth readers and literary enthusiasts! Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey through the captivating world of books with our exclusive monthly book subscription service. Each month, we create a selection of recommended reads specifically tailored to ignite your imagination and broaden your literary horizons. But that's not all – with every book box, you'll also receive some truly cool prizes designed to enhance your reading experience and delight your senses.

Subscribe to your personalized free book box today, and unlock a treasure trove of literary delights. Get ready to not only discover your next favorite author but also to significantly increase your enjoyment of reading, one carefully chosen book at a time.

This month, we've outdone ourselves with a box that promises an unparalleled reading adventure. Prepare for a thrilling, chilling, and utterly shudder-inducing collection of three narratives that will keep you on the edge of your seat and send delightful shivers down your spine. Our expert Cat Librarian has meticulously selected titles that delve into the realms of suspense, horror, and mystery, guaranteeing an unforgettable reading experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to read these gripping tales. Check out the spine-tingling selections below, and prepare to be captivated!

October Book Box Request link:https://forms.gle/jUwTANzSH4tYy6PN8

Early Readers [Ages 5-7]
Ghoulia
Barbara Cantini
DB096783
Ghoulia, a lonely little zombie girl, lives in Crumbling Manor with her Auntie Departed and spends most of her time playing with Tragedy, her beloved albino greyhound. But when Halloween rolls around, Ghoulia hatches the perfect plan to make a friend. For grades K-3.

Mister Shivers, Books 2-3
Max Brallier
DB102849
Two collections of creepy tales that will have beginning readers everywhere begging to stay up late to read (with the light on!). The spooky stories range from a boy's encounter in a dark forest to a scary doll watching the movements of a first-time babysitter. For grades K-3.

Trip to the Pumpkin Farm: Owl Diaries, Book 11
Rebecca Elliott
DB115708
Eva Wingdale and her class are excited about their trip to Poppy's Pumpkin Farm, where every year, there is one very large, extra special, Thank-you pumpkin. But on the second day of the visit, the owls find that the Thank-you Pumpkin has gone missing, and the farm animals are in an uproar. So Eva and the other owls turn detective to solve the mystery of the missing pumpkin. For grades K-3.

Young Readers [Ages 8-13]
The August House Book of Scary Stories: Spooky Tales for Telling Out Loud
Liz Smith Parkhurst
DB071247
Twenty stories from various countries – Ireland, Scotland, Japan, Mexico, Hungary, and the United States. Ghost tale "One Lace Glove" is about a dying Civil War soldier and his lady love. In the British folktale "The Dauntless Girl," a servant proves she isn't afraid of anything. For grades 4-7.

A Newbery Halloween: A Dozen Scary Stories by Newbery Award-winning Authors
DB039186
Since 1922, the American Library Association has awarded the John Newbery Award annually to the "most distinguished contribution" to children's literature. This collection of scary stories – just right for Halloween – is by Newbery Award-winning authors. Includes selections by Beverly Cleary, E. L. Konigsburg, and Virginia Hamilton. For grades 3-6 and older readers.

The Graveyard Book
Neil Gaiman
DB068027
A toddler enters a cemetery pursued by the knife-wielding stranger who just murdered his family. Resident ghosts Mr. and Mrs. Owens protect and adopt the child, naming him Nobody "Bod” Owens. Bod's graveyard upbringing serves him well, but why was his family targeted? For grades 5-8 and older readers.

Young Adult [Ages 13 years and older]
Blood at the Root
LaDarrion Wiliams
DB121038
Ten years ago, Malik's life changed forever the night his mother mysteriously vanished and he discovered he had uncontrollable powers. Since then, he has kept his abilities hidden, looking out for himself and his younger foster brother, Taye. Now, at 17, Malik is finally ready to start a new life for both of them, far from the trauma of his past. However, a daring act to rescue Taye reveals an unexpected connection with his long-lost grandmother: a legendary conjurer with ties to a hidden magical university that Malik's mother attended. For senior high and older readers.

White Smoke
Tiffany Jackson
DB105467
When her mom accepts a new job that comes with a free house, one that Mari now has to share with her bratty little stepsister, Piper, they soon experience household items vanishing, lights turning off, and a foul smell. But worse, Piper keeps talking about a friend who wants Mari gone. Some strong language and violence. For senior high and older readers.

Stalking Jack The Ripper
Kerri Maniscalco
DB085817
In Victorian-era London, privileged seventeen-year-old Audrey Rose leads a secret life studying the practice of forensic medicine. She finds herself embroiled in the investigation of a gruesome serial killer. Some strong language. For senior high and older readers.

Black cat standing with one paw on the text, "The Cat Librarian October Book Box"

10/05/2025

LBPD Events: October
Join in on these great events!

October TUG Meeting
October 11, 2025, 10:00 a.m. EST

Virtual via Zoom

On Saturday, October 11, at 10 AM, the Technology User Group (TUG) will detail the latest changes in JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion. We will review what’s new, what’s helpful and what’s on the horizon. We will also take a quick look at “Sharky,” the virtual assistant built into Freedom Scientific products.

The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last sixty minutes.

Who should attend?

All JAWS and ZoomText users
Individuals who are considering getting a Windows computer
People who want to learn more about voice navigation on the computer and the web
Joining info:

https://marylandlibraries.zoom.us/j/6562037293?omn=94648805523

Meeting ID: 656 203 7293

---

One tap mobile

+13017158592,,6562037293 #

2025 Dyslexia Summit
Held virtually over Zoom,

October, 16, 2025, 10-4 p.m. EST

Join the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled for the 2025 Dyslexia Summit on Thursday, October 16. This free, virtual event brings together educators, families, librarians, and advocates for a dynamic day of learning and conversation around dyslexia. Presentations will include sessions on co-occurring conditions, assistive technology, effective advocacy, and an overview of the Maryland LBPD’s services for individuals with print disabilities. Keynote speakers, Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide (The Dyslexic Advantage) will discuss the unique strengths of dyslexic thinkers and how to better support them across the lifespan.

Register Here
Baltimore Clayworks
October 17, 2025, 12 - 3 p.m. EST

In-person

Baltimore Clayworks will host a tactile educational experience for library patrons, including instruction on hand-building coils and pinch pots. The experience will also include clay samples in various states for the participants to touch. An Instructor representing Baltimore Clayworks will teach up to 20 students, ages 8 to Adult, on the 3rd Friday of each month, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled at 415 Park Ave, Baltimore, MD 21201.

Register Here
Friends of Maryland LBPD Annual Meeting
October 25, 2025, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. EST

In-person with online option

The Friends of the Maryland Library for the Blind and Print Disabled will hold their Annual Meeting. The keynote speaker will be John DeDakis, journalist and author of the Lark Chadwick Mystery series. The Friends will also highlight their activities from the past year and recognize the volunteers at LBPD. Lunch will be served. All are welcome. RSVP by phone at 410-230-2424 option 4 or email to reference.desk@maryland.gov by October 17th.

Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise cloud communications.

09/17/2025

Partner Message: International Dyslexia Association - DC Chapter
Upcoming Events
Making Words Stick Author Event
Wednesday, September 17
Zoom | 7–8 pm EST

A Virtual Meet-the-Authors Q&A with Dr. Molly Ness and Dr. Katie Pace Miles, authors of Making Words Stick. Dyslexia is widely recognized for its impact on word-level reading and spelling. This is your chance to hear directly from two respected researchers and educators about their expertise in word learning.

You do not need to have read the book to participate in the discussion. Registration is required and includes a $15 fundraising fee. Proceeds support free family resources and community programs.

https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fe%2Fmaking-words-stick-meet-the-authors-virtual-event-tickets-1578095348669%3Faff=oddtdtcreator%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199580c2eff-43cfe5de-ad3f-404a-888f-23a05a91417d-000000/5MQdRFHVOAMaRGixqyQFq3Cz9LHs53zWcFEDV-Y5P6s=423



Supporting Young Readers: A Virtual Panel for K–5 Caregivers
Wednesday, October 1
Zoom | 7–8 pm EST

Join six literacy experts as they answer questions from caregivers and educators. With the new school year underway, this event provides timely advice and practical strategies to support struggling readers from the outset.

No registration is required.
https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fus06web.zoom.us%2Fj%2F87683285215%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199580c2eff-43cfe5de-ad3f-404a-888f-23a05a91417d-000000/2WVtuhqxaywUT87AORViHXIqBxUM5SY67v99epRmZBE=423



Building Literacy Resource Fair: Making School-to-Home Connections
Saturday, October 4 | 11 am–1:30 pm

Hosted at Planet Word Museum, this resource fair features more than 15 expert organizations and professional tables. Families can enjoy hands-on demonstrations, expert advice, raffle prizes, pastries, and a kids’ corner. Attendees will also receive free LitKits filled with engaging tools to make reading practice fun.

https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fplanetwordmuseum.org%2Fevents%2Fbuilding-literacy-resource-fair-making-school-to-home-connections-2%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199580c2eff-43cfe5de-ad3f-404a-888f-23a05a91417d-000000/QGEOeOUzlgekNJqnfCQgULCqvfCIQF95HHUgDbuhWDg=423



Advocacy: What It Can Look Like, How It Supports Students With Exceptional Needs, and How It Relates to You
Thursday, October 16 | 3 pm EST
Zoom Webinar

Presented by the DC-IDA in partnership with the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, this webinar explores advocacy strategies and their impact on students with exceptional needs.

Registration is required.
https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmsla.maryland.gov%2FPages%2FDyslexia-Summit.aspx%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199580c2eff-43cfe5de-ad3f-404a-888f-23a05a91417d-000000/wRcUp_-WrhEvwfHObhtxIDdjUuBInhEkSee9C0voKNU=423

This webinar is part of the free, all-day virtual Dyslexia Summit. Be sure to sign up to take advantage of the full event!

This message is sent out on behalf of our partner. MSLA is not responsible for the events.

An official website of the State of Maryland.

09/10/2025

LBPD Bi-Monthly Newsletter
September/October 2025
Library Contact Information:

lbpd.maryland.gov | reference.desk@maryland.gov | 410-230-2424

2025 Dyslexia Summit
The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD), in partnership with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and community organizations, will host the inaugural Dyslexia Summit on Thursday, October 16, 2025. This free, fully accessible event will be held virtually via Zoom Meeting and live-streamed on the Maryland State Library Agency’s YouTube Channel.

The summit will bring together educators, parents, researchers, advocates, and professionals to advance understanding and support for individuals with dyslexia. Keynote speakers Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide, founders of The Dyslexic Advantage, will highlight the unique strengths often found in individuals with dyslexia. Sessions will feature experts sharing practical strategies and resources for families, educators, and advocates, on topics including co-occurring conditions like ADHD and anxiety, assistive technologies, effective advocacy, and inclusive educational strategies.

Registration is now open. Learn more at: https://msla.maryland.gov/Pages/Dyslexia-Summit.aspx

Technology User Group - Learn. Discuss. Share.
Technology User Group - hands reading an electronic braille reader.

Technology User Group
The next three Technology User Group meetings will be held on:

Saturday, September 27 - iOS 26
Saturday, October 11 - What's new in Fusion
Saturday, November 8 - AT Gifts for the Holidays
All meetings begin at 10:00 a.m., and can be accessed by either calling in or via Zoom.

Join Zoom Meeting:

Zoom Link
Meeting ID: 656 203 7293

Call in Number:
1-301-715-8592
Meeting ID: 656 203 7293​ #

One Tap Mobile:
+13017158592,,6562037293 #

Podcast - Learn. Discuss. Share.
Podcast - microphone on black background

Listen to the latest podcast!
Listen to the latest podcast here
Youth Highlights
Youth Highlights
It’s Back to School time! So much to do, but it's easier than ever to stay connected to events and programs at The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD) with Remind. Don't miss out!

You can choose to interact with Remind in the way that best fits your lifestyle: text, app or email notifications.

Download the Remind app on your smartphone.

Kids: Use the link: rmd.at/db3hefg.

Teens: Use the link: rmd.at/7ebgc6.

OR

Kids: Text to number 81010.

Teens: Text to number 81010.

Life is busy! Stay connected!

Magazines
Magazine Highlight
Please contact the library to subscribe to this or any other magazines. The following magazine is also available on BARD:

American Indian

Featuring Native American art and culture, this engages its readers with diverse articles about the histories of American Indian nations and the contemporary challenges facing Native peoples across the Western Hemisphere.

Braille on Demand
Braille on Demand
The Braille on Demand pilot project provides patrons an opportunity to request, receive, and retain up to five hard copy braille books of their choice per month from braille titles that are currently available on BARD. Go to the Braille-on-Demand Request Form to request a title online. If you would like to speak with someone or place your request over the phone, please call your local network library or contact NLS at 800-424-8567 or nlsref@loc.gov.

If the title does not appear in electronic format in braille on BARD, please contact your network library with your request to borrow a hard copy. After you fill out the online request form, NLS may contact you to review details before the order is completed.

Hispanic Heritage Month
LBPD Live: Sabor y Tradición: Virtual Cooking with the Artesanas
Get ready for a flavorful evening in the kitchen. Join Creative Alliance’s Artesanas for a live, interactive virtual cooking class from our Creativity Center community kitchen. In this hour-long, step-by-step session, you will learn how to make tacos de pollo (chicken) and fresh salsa in real time, cooking along with one of our talented Artesanas.

This special program marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15), which honors the cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. We invite you to continue exploring and learning through our curated Hispanic Heritage Month reading list, available on our website.

Register Here
MAT Program
Maryland Accessible Textbook Program
The Maryland Accessible Textbook Program (MAT), housed at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD), provides accessible textbooks for Maryland college students who are blind, visually impaired, or have print disabilities. In addition to the support offered by Disability Student Services (DSS) offices, MAT gives students and schools another option for acquiring accessible electronic texts quickly and seamlessly.

For more information, visit the webpage or contact us directly at accessible.textbook@maryland.gov or 410-230-2453.

MWE Logo
Community Partner Spotlight: Metropolitan Washington Ear
The Metropolitan Washington Ear, Inc. (MWE) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization incorporated under the laws of the state of Maryland. MWE provides reading and information services, and training for blind, visually impaired, and physically disabled people who cannot effectively read print, see plays, watch television programs and films, or view museum exhibits. Established in 1974, they've been providing quality services throughout Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia for more than 50 years.

NOTE: When applying for service, you will be asked to consent and agree to the Agreement for Dial-in Service and/or the Agreement for Radio Reading Service that you are applying for. Use the links below to download them. You may complete the online application, or you may download the Application for Service below, complete it, and return it to MWE. Read the Certification of Disability

Apply for Service
Bookshare
Get a Free Bookshare Account
Did you know that Bookshare has over 11,000 human-narrated
titles? As an LBPD patron, you can get a free Bookshare account
to supplement the books you receive from the Library. For more
information, contact the LBPD Reference Desk at (410) 230-2443
or email reference.desk@maryland.gov.

Hello Fall
Collection Highlights
Cocina Criolla, by Carmen Aboy Valldejuli

DB 111691 (Spanish language)

Written entirely in Spanish, Cocina Criolla, the standard reference work on traditional Puerto Rican cooking, is in its 68th printing and has special appeal to those who enjoy the island's cuisine. In addition to offering hundreds of delicious recipes, Cocina Criolla includes advice for the inexperienced cook that ranges from suggestions about the most efficient way to read a recipe to suggestions about what kitchen equipment every cook should have. Spanish language.

Cocina Cubana: 350 Recetas Tipicas (Cuban Cooking: 350 Typical Recipes), by Raquel Rábade Roque

DB 68969 (Spanish language)

This compilation explores the subtle flavors and varieties of classic Cuban food. Presents recipes ranging from rum-based cocktails to soups, salads, croquettes, banana and plantain side dishes, main entrées, and desserts and marmalades. Spanish language.

My Mexico City Kitchen: Recipes and Convictions, by Gabriela Cámara

BR 24997

DB 115565

Inspired by the flavors, ingredients, and flair of culinary and cultural hotspot Mexico City, Gabriela Cámara's style of fresh-first, vegetable-forward, legume-loving, and seafood-centric Mexican cooking is a siren call to home cooks who crave authentic, on-trend recipes they can make with confidence and regularity. With 150 recipes, Mexican food-lovers will find all the dishes they want to cook and will discover many sure-to-be favorites. A dozen essays detail the principles that distinguish her cooking, from why non-GMO corn matters to how everything can be a taco. Cámara is the most internationally recognized figure in Mexican cuisine, and her innovative, simple Mexican food is exactly what home cooks want to cook.

Tapas: A Taste of Spain in America, by José Andrés

DB 62462

Award-winning Spanish chef shares dozens of recipes for a traditional cuisine characterized by small portions that can serve either as appetizers or entrees. Dishes are organized by ingredients, such as olives, tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers, rice, cheese, eggs, seafood, chicken, and pork. Includes wine tips, serving suggestions, and modern variations.

Treasures of the Mexican Table: Classic Recipes, Local Secrets, by Pati Jinich

BR 24332

DB 108967

For the last decade, Pati Jinich has sought out the Mexican culinary treasures of her home country, from birria, to salsa macha, to coyotas, to carne asada. Many of these dishes are local specialties, heirlooms passed down through generations, unknown outside of their original regions. Others have become national sensations. Each recipe comes with a story told in Pati's warm, relatable style. And each has been tested in Pati's American kitchen to ensure it is the best of its kind. Together, these essential recipes paint a vivid picture of the richness of Mexico.

Get more book ideas by searching Collections Connections, Talking Book Topics, Braille Book Review, LBPD's online catalog, or calling the reference desk.

New Collection
Marylandia Updates
Folktales

Maryland Legends: Folklore from the Old Line State, by Trevor J. Blank, narrated by Barbara Anderson

DBC 12456

The demon car of Seven Hills Road, the ominous Hell House above the Patapsco River, the mythical Snallygaster of western Maryland – these are the extraordinary tales and bizarre creatures that color Maryland's folklore. The Blue Dog of Port To***co faithfully guards his master's gold even in death, and in Cambridge, the headless ghost of Big Liz watches over the treasure of Greenbriar Swamp. The woods of Prince George's County are home to stories of the menacing Goatman, while on stormy nights at the nearby University of Maryland, the strains of a ghostly piano float from Marie Mount Hall. The authors unravel legends of Maryland from the storied heroics of the First Maryland Regiment in the Revolutionary War to the mystery of the Edgar Allen Poe Toaster.

An official website of the State of Maryland.

09/06/2025

LBPD Live: Sabor y Tradición: Virtual Cooking with the Artesanas

FREE Hispanic Heritage Month Cooking Class

Get ready for a flavorful evening in the kitchen. Join Creative Alliance’s Artesanas for a live, interactive virtual cooking class from our Creativity Center community kitchen. In this hour-long, step-by-step session, you will learn how to make tacos de pollo (chicken) and fresh salsa in real time, cooking along with one of our talented Artesanas.

This special program marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15), which honors the cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. We invite you to continue exploring and learning through our curated Hispanic Heritage Month reading list, available on our website.

You don't need to prepare ahead of time if you don’t want to. Prep will be part of the event.

What you’ll need to cook along:
Tacos:

4-5 medium chicken breasts
1 white onion
4 cloves of garlic
1/2 c oil
3 tbs paprika
3 tbs sazonador fajita (seasoning)
about 10 Tortillas

Salsa:

2-,3 depending on spice level, Jalapeño pepper
2 cups green tomatillos
1 bunch cilantro
1 sm white onion
3-4 cloves of garlic
Register Here:

Cooking Class Registration

Get ready for a flavorful evening in the kitchen. Join Creative Alliance’s Artesanas for a live, interactive virtual cooking class from our Creativity Center community kitchen. In this hour-long, step-by-step session, you will learn how to make tacos de pollo (chicken) and fresh salsa in real time...

08/31/2025

TUG Meeting Announcement
iOS 26
This program will begin at 10 a.m. and will be recorded.

On Saturday, September 27, at 10 AM, the Technology User Group (TUG) will reveal the latest changes coming to the iPhone’s operating system (iOS 26). Will these changes aid in accessibility or prove to be just hype?

The presentation will begin at 10 AM and last sixty minutes.

Who should attend?

All iPhone users
Individuals who are considering getting a smartphone.
Call in Number:

1-301-715-8592
Meeting ID: 656 203 7293​ #


One tap mobile
+13017158592,,6562037293 #

Webcast:

Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise cloud communications.

08/13/2025

LBPD Events
August EventsStructured Literacy event
LBPD Live: Structured Literacy: What It Is, How It Supports Students with Exceptional Needs, and How It Relates to the Home
August 20, 2025

6:00 p.m. EST

Join the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled for a webinar, presented by the DC Capital Area Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (DC-IDA). This session will introduce the principles of structured literacy, a research-based approach that is proven to help students, including those with dyslexia and other exceptional learning needs, develop strong reading and writing skills. Together, we will explore what structured literacy looks like in practice, why it is so effective for struggling readers, and how families can support this learning at home.

This talk will be led by Kelly Fox, M.S.Ed. Language and Literacy. Kelly Fox is currently a DC Public School First Grade Teacher and Vice President of the Board of the Directors of DC-IDA. Kelly Fox is a veteran educator with several certifications, specifically: Reading Specialist (K-12), TESOL (K-12), Bilingual Education (K-12), and Elementary Education. Kelly Fox has a deep and long-standing commitment to addressing the needs of dyslexic thinkers and learners with learning differences, as well as their families and professionals, as a teacher, a speaker, and an advocate.

Register here: https://marylandlibraries.zoom.us/meeting/register/zfZFJ5o8RLSMoJQLj53o7A



Clayworks Info
LBPD Event: Baltimore Clayworks
August 22, 2025

12:00 p.m. EST

Baltimore Clayworks will host a tactile educational experience for library patrons, including instruction on hand-building coils and pinch pots. The experience will also include clay samples in various states for the participants to touch. An Instructor representing Baltimore Clayworks will teach up to 20 students, ages 8 to Adult, on Friday, August 22, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Baltimore Clayworks: 5707 Smith Ave, Baltimore. MD.Note that this program will not be at LBPD and transportation arrangements should be made to and from Baltimore Clayworks.

Register here:https://marylandlibraries.libcal.com/calendar/ExternalCalendar/BaltmoreClayworks25

Class title
Intro to Ballet for Blind and Low Vision Participants In-Person
Saturday, August 23, 2025,

11 a.m. EST

In-Person at 415 Park Ave., Baltimore, MD 21201

Registration required. A minimum of four people are needed for the class to proceed. The class is capped at 10 people.

Join us for a joyful, movement-filled hour designed primarily for individuals who are blind or have low vision! Taught by experienced dance instructor Robyn Hughes, this introductory ballet class focuses on body awareness, graceful movement, and creative expression. No prior dance experience is needed, just the ability to move your arms and legs comfortably.

Robyn will guide students through basic ballet positions and flowing routines with clear verbal instructions, while trained assistants provide optional physical guidance through gentle touch. This supportive and encouraging environment is perfect for anyone looking to explore movement in a new and inclusive way.

Registration is required, and the class will only be held if at least four students sign up. Class size is limited to ten participants to ensure personal attention and a safe, welcoming experience.

Let your body move, your spirit lift, and your creativity shine. Sign up today and try something new!

Register here: https://marylandlibraries.libcal.com/event/14855965

Robyn Hughes, a lifelong patron of the MLBPD, is an adult ballet student at the Baltimore Ballet School and recently performed the Firebird Pas de Deux at Goucher College with internationally renowned dancer Cem Catbas. She has trained through elite, disability-inclusive programs such as American Ballet Theatre and New York City Ballet’s Access Workshops. Robyn has taught introductory ballet classes to students with visual impairments at the National Federation of the Blind and the Maryland School for the Blind. In addition to her arts background, she holds advanced degrees in Jewish Studies and History, and is training in audio description and braille transcription.

Cooking Class
LBPD Live: Sabor y Tradición: Virtual Cooking with the Artesanas
Get ready for a flavorful evening in the kitchen. Join Creative Alliance’s Artesanas for a live, interactive virtual cooking class from our Creativity Center community kitchen. In this hour-long, step-by-step session, you will learn how to make tacos de pollo (chicken) and fresh salsa in real time, cooking along with one of our talented Artesanas.

This special program marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15), which honors the cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. While this is our only live celebration this year, we invite you to continue exploring and learning through our curated Hispanic Heritage Month reading list, available on our website.

Register Here:

https://marylandlibraries.zoom.us/meeting/register/gJjhCSX6SBGlUvhbbfkMAQ

If you need help registering or have questions, please reach out to:

Ashley Biggs

410-230-2430

Get ready for a flavorful evening in the kitchen. Join Creative Alliance’s Artesanas for a live, interactive virtual cooking class from our Creativity Center community kitchen. In this hour-long, step-by-step session, you will learn how to make tacos de pollo (chicken) and fresh salsa in real time...