Named 2013 Library of the Year by Library Journal and consistently ranked among the top public libraries in the US, Howard County Library System (HCLS) delivers high-quality public education for all ages. A major component of Howard County's strong education system, HCLS advances the economy, enhancing quality of life through: I. Self-Directed Education: Books and materials in all formats from a collection of one million items and a vast array of eContent II. Research Assistance & Instruction: Personalized research assistance with Instructor & Research Specialists; and classes, seminars, and workshops for infants, toddlers, children, teens, and adults taught by HCLS instructors III. Instructive & Enlightening Experiences: Community partnerships, including A+ Partners in Education, Choose Civility, and Well & Wise, as well as signature events, such as the HCLS Spelling Bee, BumbleBee, Battle of the Books, Rube Goldberg Challenge, notable author events, and Evening in the Stacks. Howard County Library System has six branches: Central Branch (in Columbia), East Columbia Branch, Elkridge Branch, Glenwood Branch, Miller Branch (in Ellicott City), and Savage Branch.