Brake problem? Maybe?

It seems as though my brakes are getting locked. While driving the other day my 2000 VW Beetle seemed to loose power. I pulled to side of road, turned car off, and when I restarted and put it in gear (manual) it reved and tried to go but couldn't. You could smell the brakes! I had to have it towed, and the garage put new pads and rotors on front. I drove it about 3 miles and it happened again, so it is back at the garage. They don't seem to know whats going on! The nearest VW dealership is 85 miles away. Does anyone have a clue, so that I may give them an inkling as to what to look for? Thanks