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The library also recently re-launched its adult programming,
after budget cuts forced them to end. Partnering with Frederick
Community College’s Institute for Learning in Retirement, the
library offers free classes to adult patrons. One recent offering was
a Zentangle class, teaching participants the method of creating
pictures out of patterns.
Officials also are reaching out to a more diverse population growing
in Urbana through events such as an annual Chinese New Year
celebration, which attracts hundreds. A Diwali Celebration of Light
event is also in the works for autumn.
“We are trying to provide opportunities for everybody in the
community to learn and celebrate together,” Whitney said. “...It
is such an exciting and energizing time to be working in a library
because we really are out in the community much more than we
used to be, and that is a good thing.”
The Urbana Senior Center is one of facilities dedicated to older
adults located in the county. While most offer exercise and
enrichment classes, Urbana’s also provides English-as-a-second-
language (ESSL) classes.
“We have had 17 different primary languages at the senior center,” said
Susan Hofstra, senior center supervisor. “...We have seniors come
to the center who would like to be more part of the community, but
they don’t know the English language.” So, the Urbana Senior Center
staff decided to offer ESSL classes and participants from countries
such as China, Pakistan, India and Vietnam have taken advantage.
ALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID S. SPENCE/SPENCE PHOTOGRAPHICS
AREA FACTS
*Data from 2010 U.S. Census
Population People under the age of 5
9,175 10.5%
Number of households People 16 years and older
2,804 67.3%
Median age People aged 65 years and older
33.4 years 4%
RESOURCES:
Frederick County Public Libraries Urbana Branch
9020 Amelung St.
301-600-7000
FCPL.org
Urbana Senior Center
9020 Amelung St.
301-600-7020
frederickcountymd.gov/318/Urbana-Senior-Center
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thefrederickguide.com
Summer 2017 // FREDERICK COUNTY GUIDE
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