About Us

At Howard County Library System, we believe a strong library is vital for a strong community. We invite you to work with us as co-creators to imagine and create a stronger community for everyone.
group picture of the Howard County Library system staff team.

Featured

New Strategic Plan

Beginning in 2019, Howard County Library System engaged residents across the County to ensure our new strategic plan reflected our community’s interests and aspirations. Thank you for sharing your time and thoughts.
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Annual Report FY 2025

This year marks an exciting new chapter as we celebrated our 85th birthday and put our community-shaped strategic plan into action.
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New Central Library at the Lakefront

Howard County’s new Central Library at the Lakefront represents an historic opportunity to create a vibrant community anchor in the heart of the County, where everyone can learn, grow, and connect. This is more than a new building; it’s a bold investment in Howard County’s future, honoring Columbia’s original vision of inclusion and innovation.
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Tell Us Your Story

How has Howard County Library System impacted your life? Share a brief story about how the Library helped you learn, grow, or connect.
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Mission:

Howard County Library System is your place to learn, grow, and connect.

Vision:

An empowered community where all people reach their potential.

Elkridge Branch Interior. Elkridge Branch Interior.

Future Focus

Decision-making about facilities is guided by a Facilities Assessment and Master Plan first published in 2004 and updated in 2019.
a historic photo of a small wooden Public Library building. a historic photo of a small wooden Public Library building.

History

Howard County Library System was established in 1940. Read our history and timeline.
Student holding equality now sign. Student holding equality now sign.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

Learn about our commitments and Equity efforts. We strive for excellence and pride ourselves on building community, supporting cultural exchange, and elevating public discourse.
Instructor pointing to a sewing machine. Instructor pointing to a sewing machine.

Procurement

Find opportunities to do business with us in our Blogs procurement section.

Newsletter Subscriptions

Stay connected with our newsletters. Select the audience you would like to receive library updates on, or select a book genre for NextReads recommendations. Our newsletter will be delivered directly to your email inbox.

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