The North Carroll branch will be closing at 3:30 PM today, Tuesday, March 7, 2026, due to plumbing issues. We hope to reopen at Noon tomorrow, Wednesday, April 8, 2026, if repairs are completed. Please check back for updates regarding tomorrow's hours.

The Teaching Kitchen

Exploration Commons kitchen cookline picture

The Exploration Commons Teaching Kitchen provides the community with creative and educational ways to connect through food.

Together we engage in experiences, programs, and hands-on classes to gain skills and confidence in the kitchen, both personally and professionally. We provide fundamental cooking classes, nutrition and health education, and workforce development opportunities for everyone in the community.

Our Approach to Food

Staff and guest presenters encourage curiosity of new cooking techniques and global cuisines to cultivate positive food experiences. We highlight accessible and affordable foods so participants feel empowered to recreate the recipes at home.

Our Approach to Community

We create programs to serve community members of all ages and local organizations. We foster respect of others and all food cultures by providing diverse and inclusive instruction.

Upcoming Classes and Programs

POP-UP! Quiche Lorraine and Salad

Thursday, April 9, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information

Join us for a POP-UP kitchen class! Each participant will prepare a full pan of traditional Quiche Lorraine. While our quiches bake, we'll toss up a tasty salad and house-made dressing to enjoy with a piece of quiche.

POSTPONED: Library for the Blind and Print Disabled Cooking Program

Thursday, April 9, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Class information

PROGRAM BEING RESCHDULED: Join us for a live, in-person, hands-on cooking class with local restaurant owner Jasmin Sarabia! Co-owner of Restaurant La Jarochita, Jasmin and her family focus on traditional Mexican cuisine, sharing Mexican traditions, and community engagement. Sarabia is a graduate of Carroll Community College, a human resources generalist, and a chef, and is passionate about community. 

The restaurant's other co-owners, Antonio and Epifania, have dedicated more than 20+ years to serving the community in Carroll County through various projects and businesses.

Register for this program through the Library for the Blind and Print Disabled. 

The program can accommodate 15 people, and LBPD patrons will receive priority. No guests are permitted at this time. Transportation to and from the event will not be provided. A waitlist will be available once 15 people have registered. 

This program is being held in conjunction with Carroll County Public Library's Exploration Commons at 50 East Main Street, Westminster, Maryland, 21157.

Check back or contact either location for additional information.

 

Healthy & Fast Weeknight Dinner

Friday, April 10, 2026 - 11:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information

Discover an easy, high-protein meal, Fish en Papillote, that uses a simple cooking technique that keeps fish tender and flavorful. In this hands-on class, you'll create a light dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but fits into any busy weeknight. 

Cook Together: Easy Lasagna Roll Ups

Monday, April 13, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 6 - 17
Class registration and more information

In this family-friendly class, we will make delicious lasagna roll-ups and will enjoy our meal together in the kitchen. This class is designed for groups of up to four participants and must include: 

  • At least one child aged 6–17

  • At least one adult 

  • The remaining two spots in the group may be filled by additional participants aged 6 or older or left unfilled. 

Savory Spiral Rolls

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information

Learn how to make savory spiral rolls. Participants will learn basic dough preparation and how to layer herbs, cheeses, and savory fillings to create rolls that are perfect as sides, snacks, or appetizers. No prior baking experience is needed.

Lemon Chicken with Angel Hair Pasta

Thursday, April 16, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages: Adults
Class registration and more information

Join us for a hands-on cooking class! We will learn how to make this classic dish of lightly egg-battered chicken breasts with a savory butter, lemon, and white wine sauce. It's sure to impress!

Cheese Basics: Taste & Explore

Saturday, April 18, 2026 - 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information

This class introduces simple methods for tasting and describing cheese with confidence. You’ll learn to slow down, notice details, and build your cheese vocabulary. 

Fortune Cookies

Monday, April 20, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ages: 14 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information

Learn how to make your own golden, crisp fortune cookies from start to finish! In this hands-on class, you’ll mix the batter, fold the warm cookies into their iconic shape, and slip fortunes inside.

Vegetarian Burritos

Tuesday, April 21, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information

Learn to make hearty, flavorful vegetarian burritos packed with wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients. This class shows you how to create satisfying, health-focused meals that are quick, easy, and delicious.