This information was written by Kim Arlia, logistics leader for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

This page was updated on February 4, 2026, to include new dates and remove dates that have already passed.

Do you feel like Mother Nature released one of her two angry kids on the Carolinas two weeks in a row? Freeze Miser? And if you don’t know that reference, you better catch up - The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974). A classic movie and a catchy little tune. I was hoping for Spring and got walloped with an extended winter – thanks Phil and Brad! If you need to know those references – you better email me! [email protected]

Being from the Pittsburgh area many think that I would just shrug off the ice and snow. Hey – I moved here for a reason. Back in the winter of 1995 I was peeling off layers as I drove South through WV and into the Carolinas. I had a car with no heat and was hoping to have it limp by for a few more year. I was sold on North Carolina when I could wear a t-shirt and shorts on New Years Day! Then, the summer hit and no air conditioner in the car made me rethink my Carolina move. You cannot drive fast enough to circulate air in a Camry. Here I am 30 years later, with all my Stephen King books intact, with a car that has heat, heated seats, air conditioning, and cooling seats – still loving the Carolinas! In November 1999, I started with the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library system and everything about the Carolinas became a bit sweeter. Can you say books at the beach sweet?

I do love a snow day – a chance to use the wood burning fireplace, pull out a couple of books, and settle down with a snack or two. My reads included two selections by T.J. Klune –Somewhere Beyond the Sea, the young adult title Under the Whispering Door, Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshi, and Good Spirits by B.K. Borison. Hope everyone got a chance to slow down and enjoy an indoor activity. Or an outdoor activity if you have not had a chance to build a snowman or go sled riding. Gosh, I used to love doing those! Now I love watching the birds from the kitchen window. Got some good pictures!

Now reality has hit - the work is backing up. Books are backing up. Which means more book sales this year!! Make sure you look over the list carefully as we are adding special genre sales. I plan on adding in a few special sales at new locations – just must discover where I can squeeze in a few book carts. If you have a suggestion – let me know.

Keep safe, dry, and warm! Hope to see you at the next book sale!