HCLS #TogetherWeSoar Takes Flight at The Longest Table

More than 200 attendees to Howard County Library System’s (HCLS') The Longest Table took flight as they interacted with an enormous pair of sparkling, colorful wings at this year’s event. Created as a collaborative art piece to depict the power of community under the theme “Together We Soar,” the on-site art project was created by local artist Fidel Carey Realmo, with the assistance of Columbia Art Center staff, HCLS staff and those attending the annual event.

SEE MORE PEOPLE "SOARING"

Now in its third year, The Longest Table strives to bring people of varying backgrounds together to share a meal and explore common topics through open conversation. Prior to sitting down for dinner 200 guests enjoyed a pre-event social hour where they helped create individual
feathers for the collaborative, 3-D artwork. Participants’ feathers were assembled onto the wings by the artist during the dinner hour. The evening concluded with guests flocking to pose in front of the giant wings and bring the sculpture to life for photos

Expanding on the Together We Soar theme, HCLS will continue the dialogue through a series of community conversations to be held at each branch location. Participants will be asked to share their ideas, passions and perspectives on their community to help HCLS shape its future. The aim of the facilitated sessions is to enable HCLS to gain greater insight into what matters most in the lives of those it serves, and align the Library’s mission, vision and services with the priorities and aspirations of Howard County residents.

In conjunction with the community conversations, the 10 ft. x 10 ft. wings will travel to each branch where all are welcome to take advantage of the on-site photo opportunity and share in the soaring experience. Library customers are encouraged to spread their wings and take part in HCLS’ visual outreach effort by taking a picture in front of the wings and sharing it with the tag #TogetherWeSoar.

Community Conversations will take place as follows:

• October 10 | 6 -8 pm | HCLS Central Branch |Register*
• November 4 | 6 – 8 pm | HCLS Glenwood Branch |Register*
• November 13 | 6 – 8 pm | HCLS Savage Branch |Register*
• November 16 | 3 – 5 pm |HCLS Miller Branch |Register*
• December 7 | 10 am – 12 pm | HCLS East Columbia Branch | Register*
• December 11 | 6 – 8 pm | HCLS Elkridge Branch |Register*

Refreshments and community reception will be followed with facilitated conversation.

*Registration is preferred but not required