1840 of 2121 results
Thumbnail
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers Mango Languages to cardholders seeking to learn a foreign language.

Explore the world and learn a new language

May 7, 2020

Desplácese hacia abajo para ver la versión en español

Have you thought about learning a new language? Do you want to improve your language skills? Maybe you haven’t practiced your Spanish in years, or you hope to visit France some day and want to learn basic French before you go. While you may not have access to Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s physical collection right now, we have several resources to help you reach your goals from home – or wherever your internet connection takes you. All of these are free with a Library card. 

Mango Languages offers interactive software for learning more than 70 world languages and includes more than 17 ESL/ELL courses. Each course allows you to practice listening, reading and speaking the language. You can use this resource as a guest, but if you create an account Mango Languages will track your progress so you can pick up where you left off each time you return. You can download the app to take learning with you. Watch this video for a quick tutorial and click here to get started. 



ESL students who want to continue their mastery of the English language while earning CEUs (Continuing Education Units) can also turn to Universal Class. When you access Universal Class through the Library’s website and create your free account, you’ll be able to take courses such as ESL Grammar Skills (Levels 1-5) and ESL Basic Writing Skills. These self-paced courses offer more structure with assignments to complete and feedback from an instructor. Finish the course to earn a certificate of completion. 

While taking advantage of online courses is an invaluable part of learning a language, it also helps to be able to interact with people in your community. For example, the Library offers weekly Conversation Clubs on our schedule of online programming. A Conversation Club allows participants to practice speaking a language in a relaxed environment, without the pressure of taking a class.  The Library currently offers English and Spanish Conversation Clubs and is working to add other languages soon. Visit the Library’s online calendar and be sure to register as space may be limited to ensure a positive experience for all who attend.  

The Library also provides resources to help you read or listen to texts in other languages. OverDrive and hoopla offer downloadable e-books and e-audiobooks in Spanish for all ages. TumbleBooks has a collection of e-books for children in French and Spanish under the “Language Learning” tab. Children can follow along as the book is read aloud or read independently. When you access the New York Times – Digital Solutions and create a free account, you can read the paper in English, Spanish or Chinese. A limited number of “offsite” passes is available each day. Learn more about using this resource at home here

The Library’s resources are free to use with your Library card or ONE Access ID. If you don’t have a card, you can apply for one here. So, what are you waiting for? ¡Si puedo comenzar hoy! - that means I can get started today! 

 

¿Ha pensado en aprender un nuevo idioma? ¿Quiere mejorar sus habilidades lingüísticas? Tal vez no ha practicado su español en años, o espera visitar Francia algún día y quiere aprender francés básico antes de ir. Si bien es posible que no tenga acceso a la colección física de la Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg en este momento, tenemos varios recursos para ayudarlo a alcanzar sus objetivos desde su hogar, o donde sea que lo lleve su conexión a Internet. Todo esto es gratis con una tarjeta de la biblioteca.

Mango Languages es un curso de aprendizaje de idiomas con más de 70 cursos de lenguajes mundiales y más de 17 cursos de inglés como segundo idioma (ESL por sus siglas en inglés) y aprendizaje del idioma inglés (ELL por sus siglas en inglés). Cada curso le permite practicar escuchar, leer y hablar el idioma. Puede usar este recurso como invitado, pero si crea una cuenta, Mango Languages hará un seguimiento de su progreso para que pueda retomarlo al ingresar. Puede descargar la aplicación para llevar el aprendizaje con usted. Mire este video para obtener un tutorial rápido y haga clic aquí para comenzar.

Los estudiantes de ESL que desean continuar su dominio del idioma inglés mientras obtienen Unidades de Educación Continua (CEUs por sus siglas en inglés) también pueden recurrir a Universal Class. Cuando ingresa a Universal Class a través del sitio web de la biblioteca y crea una cuenta gratuita, podrá tomar cursos como habilidades de gramática ESL (niveles 1-5) y habilidades básicas de escritura ESL. Estos cursos ofrecen más estructura con tareas para completar y comentarios de un instructor, y los puede llevar a su propio ritmo. Cuando termine el curso podrá obtener un certificado de finalización.

Si bien aprovechar los cursos en línea es una parte invaluable del aprendizaje de un idioma, también es bueno interactuar con las personas de su comunidad. Por ejemplo, la biblioteca ofrece clubes de conversación semanales en nuestro horario de programación en línea. Un club de conversación les permite a los participantes practicar la conversación de un idioma en un ambiente relajado, sin la presión de tomar una clase. La biblioteca actualmente ofrece clubes de conversación en inglés y español y agregará otros idiomas pronto. Visite el calendario en línea de la biblioteca y asegúrese de registrarse, ya que el espacio puede ser limitado para garantizar una experiencia positiva para todos los participantes.  



La biblioteca también proporciona recursos para ayudarlo a leer o escuchar textos en otros idiomas. OverDrive y hoopla ofrecen libros y audiolibros electrónicos descargables en español para todas las edades. TumbleBooks tiene una colección de libros electrónicos para niños en francés y español en la pestaña titulada "Language Learning". Los niños pueden escuchar mientras el libro se lee en voz alta o pueden leerlo de forma independiente. Cuando accede al periódico New York Times - Digital Solutions y crea una cuenta gratuita, puede leerlo en inglés, español o chino. Un número limitado de pases está disponible cada día. Obtenga más información sobre el uso de este recurso en casa aquí.

Los recursos de la biblioteca son de uso gratuito con su tarjeta de la biblioteca o su número de ONE Access. Si no tiene una tarjeta, puede solicitarla aquí. ¿Entonces, qué espera? I can get started today! - ¡Eso significa: ¡Sí puedo comenzar hoy!

Thumbnail
Teens can use Charlotte Mecklenburg Library's College & Career Connections programs to prepare for their future.

Teen talk: Take your next step during COVID-19

May 11, 2020

Deciding what to do after high school is stressful enough, but with everything going on in the world right now, we can’t imagine the additional pressure for teens. The good news is that Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has a whole initiative called College & Career Connections to make it a little easier to figure out your next step. We are still here for you! 

Though our libraries are physically closed, we are offering ways for you to map out your journey for after high school – whether you know your path or you’re still figuring things out. Register for one of our Book a Librarian – My Next Step for Teens programs where you can hop on a video call with a Teen Services staff member who can chat with you about making your next move. We’ll help guide you by connecting you with the resources you need to succeed. These 1-on-1 sessions are meant to be conversations, so there’s no pressure whether you have one question or ten! We’ve even increased our availability, adding new days and times to our calendar to better accommodate your schedule. If you haven’t seen our Road Map and Checklist, check it out here.   

Prefer just kicking back and listening? No problem. We have a new podcast series on Career Exploration on our Digital Branch page. The episodes are short, fun and engaging. Interested in giving back to your community and earning some community service hours?  You can find virtual volunteering opportunities here (and also digital escape rooms in case you feel the need to break free).

Also, if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed thinking about college testing, we have programs and resources to help ease your mind. We’ve teamed up with The Princeton Review to help you tackle those tests. Programs such as Which Test Should I Take? SAT vs ACT, SAT Strategy Session, ACT Strategy Session, Dream Colleges, Online Practice Tests and Scores Back Sessions will help you prepare for your future. Registration is free, but space is still limited. Be sure to check our online calendar for all the details. The College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) is also looking to help answer your financial aid and FAFSA questions, so we’ll let you know once that event is ready to go.        

Though this is all focused on College & Career Connections, the Library is working behind the scenes to start some new programs for you too. In fact, we’ve moved some fun, interactive programs to our ImaginOn Instagram page. Each week, we host Teens LIVE on Instagram Live to give you a place to kick back, relax and meet other students in the community while learning new skills, hobbies, participating in video and music challenges and so much more. We recently held sessions making no-sew masks and delicious, chocolate peanut butter no-bake cookies!

We hope you’ll join us for our next live programs. Until then, you can always connect with us on cmlibrary.org. 

Thumbnail
Stay connected while staying home with virtual programming from the Library.

Virtual Programming from the Library - Week of 5/18/20

May 12, 2020

Did you know that you can continue to stay connected to the Library while staying home? How would you like to participate in a virtual storytime with your family or receive resume help all from the comfort of your couch? Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library every week for a wide range of virtual programming for children, teens and adults. See a complete listing of this upcoming programming for the week of 5/18/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Sunday 5/17

International Authors Book Club for 20-30 Somethings (Virtual) - 4 p.m.   LEARN MORE

Monday 5/18

Family Storytime - 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)  REGISTER

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

French for Beginners – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Mindful Monday -12 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Traditional Storytelling - 3 p.m.  (Children's programming) REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Teen Technology – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

ACT Strategy Session with The Princeton Review – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)  LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Strange New Worlds Book Club – 7 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

 

Tuesday 5/19              

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

The Detection Book Club – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Aprendiendo Juntos en Casa – 10 a.m. (information to be emailed to prior participants)

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Career Development Intensive Coaching – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)    REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Chapter Three Book Club – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Teen and Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Story Explorers Enrichment – 3 p.m.   (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.  REGISTER

Dream Colleges with The Princeton Review – 3 p.m.  (Teen programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.   REGISTER

Confident Career Moves with Ericka Spradley (virtual) Session 2 – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of K-3 Students – 6 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

WFAE Presents: Podcasting 101 – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Graphic Novel Book Club – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Murderino Book Club – 7 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m.  (Teen programming)  REGISTER

 

Wednesday 5/20

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

Bridging the Social Distance: A Community Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book Ends Book Club – 10:15 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Lunch & Munch Book Club - 12 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Poetry in Pajamas - 12 p.m.  (Adult programming)  REGISTER

The Pocket-Size Book Club - 1 p.m.  (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Learning Circle: Getting Started with Microsoft Excel - 1 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Engage 2020: School Age Stories – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Teen Technology – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.    REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

 

Thursday 5/21

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Write Like You Mean It – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)  LEARN MORE

Aprendiendo Juntos en Casa – 10 a.m. (information to be emailed to prior participants)

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Career Development Intensive Coaching – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Adult and Teen programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of 2-5 year olds – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.   REGISTER

Book Talk: Children's - 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.  REGISTER

Spanish Conversation Club – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Urban Book Club – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

English Conversation Club - 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

 

Friday 5/22

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Nonprofit Services Coffee & Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Baby Storytime – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.   REGISTER

 

Saturday 5/23

SAT Practice Test Online – 9 a.m. (Teen programming)    LEARN MORE

ACT Practice Test Online – 9 a.m. (Teen programming)    LEARN MORE

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)    LEARN MORE

Virtual Reading Buddies – 10 a.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 11 a.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

SAT Practice Test Online – 11 a.m. (Teen programming)    LEARN MORE

ACT Practice Test Online – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)    LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 1 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

English Conversation Club – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 2 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Lit Lite – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

SAT Practice Test Online – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)    LEARN MORE

ACT Practice Test Online – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)    LEARN MORE

Thumbnail
Online programming with Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

Take advantage of online programming for children with the Library

May 14, 2020

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has always been regarded as a pillar in the community for children’s programming. If you would have visited the Library prior to March 15, 2020, you would’ve seen and heard children of all ages participating in storytimes, programming for school-age children, librarians helping children find books to enjoy, and children frolicking through Library locations to select books to take home and love. While a very different scene exists at our physical Library locations today, children’s programming has transitioned virtually, and we want you to join us online. There’s something online for every child to enjoy with the Library!

Programs for young children

Tune in to ImaginOn’s Facebook every morning at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. for live storytimes with your favorite Library storytellers. Build early literacy habits with tips from our librarians and enjoy listening to new books selected to share with you. Spanish storytimes are available every Tuesday and Thursday at 9:30 a.m. and babies can enjoy participating in a special baby storytime on Friday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Again, you can access these live storytimes by visiting and liking the ImaginOn Facebook page.

Programs for school-age children

We’ve got numerous exciting and engaging programs for your school-age child as well. Our Library staff has been busy creating enrichment programs and book talks for you to enjoy by accessing our Digital Branch online here. Learn to animate by making a Flip-o-Rama, hear Library staff share books from countries around the world, learn about cool genres to begin reading, and much more. New programs are added weekly. These programs are available anytime from the convenience of your home.

School-age support

Need help furthering your child’s learning? The Library is committed to improving reading proficiency for all children and provides educational support online too. One-on-one appointments are available every day for homework help and Reading Buddies. Our Library staff will join your child on a Zoom call to help with their classwork assignments and homework. Library staff are also available to be your child’s reading buddy to share some of our digital e-books (Spanish reading buddy support is available on Mondays). Sign up by visiting the online calendar and searching for these programs here.

While we miss having you at our physical locations, we continue to be here for you virtually. Take advantage of online programming for children with the Library today.

Thumbnail
Read, Learn and Explore with the double Summer Break Challenge from Charlotte Mecklenburg Library!

Read, Learn and Explore with the double Summer Break Challenge!

May 19, 2020

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library encourages reading and learning all year long. The summer months, when students take a break from school, are critical to expanded learning. In fact, summertime poses the most academic risk because students without access to summer learning opportunities can fall behind their peers, creating an achievement gap that is hard to close.

To keep kids on track with important matters such as literacy and physical activity, the Library offers Summer Break, annual summer learning program that encourages children to read, learn and explore.

 

With library locations currently closed due to the state’s stay-at-home order, the Library has made some changes to the Summer Break program this year. This year, the program runs June 1 – August 8 with registration beginning on June 1. There will also be two separate—yet related—challenges:

  • Summer Break: At Home (June 1-30) – All participants – babies, children, teens and adults – are challenged to stay at home and read 15 million minutes as a community while working towards earning virtual badges.
  • Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere (July 1-August 8) - The community is challenged to read another 20 million minutes and, in addition to more virtual badges, participants can earn prizes.

Participants can sign up for Summer Break: At Home beginning June 1, and once signed up, will be automatically added to the second challenge. Participants can also pre-register for Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere on June 15. 

Also new this year, there is a mobile app called “Beanstack Tracker” where participants can create a free online account to track reading time, learning and leisure activities throughout the program. It’s easy to use:

  • Download the app through your App store by searching “Beanstack Tracker,” made by Zoobean and downloading it to your phone or other device
  • Create an account with your email address for just you, or your whole family, and search for “Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.” Then, select the challenge Summer Break: At Home
  • Track activities online to collect virtual badges

Summer Break participants complete the program after achieving 600 points either through reading, or with a combination of reading and learning activities. During Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere (July 1 – August 8) participants can earn a Wendy’s Jr. Frosty coupon at sign up and a prize at completion. Prizes may be available after July 1, pending library operations. Prizes are available while supplies last. 

Sign up for Summer Break

The 2020 Summer Break program is brought to you by Charlotte Mecklenburg Library with additional support from Wendy’s and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation.

Thumbnail
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library's Job Help Center offers perspective on how caring for yourself fully can positively impact your job search.

Self-care for job seekers

May 20, 2020

Many are currently searching for employment, perhaps more people than ever before in our lifetime. Whether you have changed jobs recently and feel comfortable navigating an online environment or are dusting off a resumé that hasn’t been touched in years, this is a vulnerable place to be. Our full attention may be on the very real need to get an income stream flowing. It can be desperate at times and incredibly discouraging to send out emails or applications without knowing when or if we will hear back.

In this time of seeking, we may forget about our own physical, mental and emotional needs, which may be different in a time of increased stress. It is important to periodically take a break from the intensity of a job search/application process and check in with ourselves to see what is needed.

A few questions to consider:

  • How am I feeling (physically, mentally, emotionally)?
  • When was the last time I completely relaxed?
  • Am I eating foods that support my health needs?
  • Am I getting enough physical activity to feel strong and vibrant?
  • How am I talking to myself? Is it in alignment with my goals? Is it kind?
  • What am I passionate about? Have I allowed myself time to pursue that?
  • Is the media I am consuming contributing to a positive outlook?
  • Am I connecting daily to the natural world?
  • Am I connecting to people who are supportive of me and my goals?
  • Am I exploring other outlets for education or support in my job search?

Then, most importantly, if you find areas where you have neglected yourself, take a moment to shift the day’s plan and allow for rest, nutrition or a phone call to a special friend. The ways we care for ourselves each day allow us to be the very best version of ourselves when we interact with the world. When you’re well rested, have eaten a healthy meal and taken a moment to reflect on what is needed, you are likely to feel more confident.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the many free resources the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers to support your job search. The Library offers a resume review service, job coaching, daily job postings and a multitude of online resources and workshops to help position you for success in your next job. Click here to see the full schedule of job and career programs available to you.

Thumbnail
Stay connected while staying home with virtual programming from the Library.

Virtual Programming from the Library - Week of 5/25/20

May 20, 2020

Did you know that you can continue to stay connected to the Library while staying home? How would you like to participate in a virtual storytime with your family or receive resume help all from the comfort of your couch? Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library every week for a wide range of virtual programming for children, teens and adults. See a complete listing of this upcoming programming for the week of 5/25/2020* below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

*As a reminder, there will be no virtual programming on Monday 5/25 in observance of Memorial Day

 

Sunday 5/24

International Authors Book Club for 20-30 Somethings (Virtual) - 4 p.m.   LEARN MORE

 

Monday 5/25

NO PROGRAMS- MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY 

 

Tuesday 5/26              

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN More

Aprendiendo Juntos en Casa – 10 a.m. (information to be emailed to prior participants)

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

French for Beginners – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Navigating Financial Aid and Paying for College with CFNC – 12 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Mindful Mondays – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Career Development Intensive Coaching – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Career Development Intensive Coaching – 12:30 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12:30 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Teen and Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Story Explorers Enrichment – 3 p.m.   (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

ACT Scores Back Session – 3 p.m.  (Teen programming)  LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.   REGISTER

Confident Career Moves with Ericka Spradley (virtual) Session 3 – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of K-3 Students – 6 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Southern Voices Book Club – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

WFAE Presents: Podcasting 101 – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Graphic Novel Book Club – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Murderino Book Club – 7 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m.  (Teen programming) REGISTER

 

Wednesday 5/27

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)  LEARN More

Bridging the Social Distance: A Community Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER   

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

History and Historical Fiction - 12 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Lunch & Munch Book Club - 12 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Murder by the Book – 12:15 p.m.  (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12:30 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Learning Circle: Getting Started with Microsoft Excel - 1 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Engage 2020: School Age Stories – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Teen Technology – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

SAT Scores Back Session – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.    REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

 

Thursday 5/28

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN More

Write Like You Mean It – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)  LEARN MORE

Aprendiendo Juntos en Casa – 10 a.m. (information to be emailed to prior participants)

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Non Profit Services: Intro to Proposal Writing – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Career Development Intensive Coaching – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Career Development Intensive Coaching – 12:30 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12:30 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER    

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Adult and Teen programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of 2-5 year olds – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.   REGISTER

Elevator Pitch (Virtual) - 3 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book Talk: Children's - 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.  REGISTER

Spanish Conversation Club – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Poldark Book Club – 6:00 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

English Conversation Club - 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

 

Friday 5/29

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN More

Finding Home: A Community Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Nonprofit Services Coffee & Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Favorite Books Book Club – 10:30 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Baby Storytime – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Business Research – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Spanish Basics (Virtual) – 1 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m.   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Teens LIVE - Dorm Room Hacks – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3 p.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.   REGISTER

 

Saturday 5/30

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming) LEARN More

Learning Circle: The Science of Wellbeing – 9:30 a.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 10 a.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Getting Started Podcasting – 10 a.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Virtual Reading Buddies – 11 a.m.  (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Teens LIVE - How to Make Energy Bars – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)    LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 1 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

English Conversation Club – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 2 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Thumbnail
How to manage your holds at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

How to manage your holds at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

May 20, 2020

Have you ever wanted to manage your holds from home but weren’t sure what to do? As Charlotte Mecklenburg Library prepares for its phased approach to re-opening, now is a great time to review the list of holds on your account and determine whether you still want or need those items. This post will explain the difference between canceling and suspending/pausing a hold and show you how to take care of both from your computer, tablet or mobile device. Please note: In this case, we are referring to physical items that you placed on hold, not requests for e-books or e-audiobooks.

Canceling a hold

Were you able to check out the e-book version of a print title that you had on hold and find that you no longer need the print copy? Did you request items to help with a school project that you no longer need? Canceling a hold means that you no longer need that item and want to remove it from your holds list. You can cancel holds through the Library’s website or through the Library’s mobile app. Find steps to manage your holds below or here.

Canceling holds through the Library’s website on a PC, tablet or smartphone

 1) Visit www.cmlibrary.org and click the account button at the top of the page.

 

2) Enter your Library card number, ONE Access ID or username; then enter your PIN and click Log In. If you’ve never accessed your account through the Library’s website before, you will be asked to create a new account. Tip: When you create an account in Bibliocommons (the name for the Library’s catalog system), you will be asked to create a username. For future logins, you can use either your Library card number/ONE Access ID or the username you create.

 

3) You’ll see a box labeled My Borrowing on the left side of your screen. This includes access to materials you have checked out, your holds, your borrowing history (if that feature has been enabled) and any fees associated with your account. To access your list of holds, click where it says On Hold.

 

 

 

4) The next page displays your current hold requests. If you only want to cancel one hold, click the Cancel hold button next to the appropriate item. 

 

 

 If you want to cancel multiple holds, check the box next to each of the items you want to cancel. You should see that a red box has appeared at the bottom of your screen. Click on Manage Items, then click on Cancel holds. The system will ask you to confirm that you do want to cancel those holds.

 

 

 



How to cancel holds using the Library’s mobile app

If you do not have the Library’s mobile app, you can download it for free through the app store on your tablet or smartphone.



1) Log in to the mobile app using your Library card or ONE Access ID and your PIN.

 

 

 

 

 

2) The items you currently have checked out will be listed first. Scroll down to the section titled Waiting on Availability. Press the Cancel button next to each item you want to cancel.

 

 

 

Pausing/suspending a hold

Do you tend to place a lot of materials on hold and then find that they all come in at one time? Have you ever been on vacation only to find that the materials you requested came in while you were away, causing you to miss the opportunity to check them out? When you suspend/pause a hold, your name continues to move up the holds list, but your hold will not come in for you until after the date that you set. Tip: If you are managing your holds through the website, you will see the term “pause hold,” but the Library’s mobile app uses the term “suspend holds.” They both accomplish the same task – this is just one of the quirks of the system.

How to pause holds using the Library’s website on a PC, smartphone or tablet

If you want to pause your hold for only one item, or if you want to pause holds for multiple items using different dates, follow steps one through three listed under “Canceling a hold using the Library’s website on a PC, smartphone or tablet” above. Click Pause Hold next to the appropriate item. Then, choose Select a date and use the calendar tool that appears to pick the date after which you want to receive your hold. Please note: This does not necessarily mean that your hold will come in for you on that date. When your hold arrives still depends on where you are on the request list as well as the availability of the item. This just means you can be assured that your hold will not come in until sometime after the date you choose.

 

 

If you want to pause multiple holds using the same date, check the box next to each item you want to pause. You should see that a red box has appeared at the bottom of your screen. Click on Manage Items, then click on Pause holds. You’ll have the opportunity to Select a date from a calendar, then click on Yes, pause holds.

 

 

How to suspend holds using the CMLibrary mobile app

1) Log in to the mobile app using your Library card or ONE Access ID and your PIN.

2) The items you currently have checked out will be listed first. Scroll down to the section titled Waiting on Availability. Press the Suspend button next to each item you want to suspend.

3) Select your Resume Date and press Ok.

We understand that managing holds can be confusing, so please reach out to Library staff for help at any time. Staff can also assist you with canceling/suspending holds on e-books and e-audiobooks. While the Library is physically closed, staff are available Monday-Friday through our Ask a Librarian chat service from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Click here to learn how to connect with staff if you’re new to online chat.

Thumbnail

Good Samaritan Hospital: Paving the way for progress

May 26, 2020

In 1887, local philanthropist Jane Renwick Smedberg Wilkes (1827-1913) enabled the Right Reverend Joseph Blount Cheshire (1850-1932), a representative of the North Carolina Episcopal Diocese, to purchase a plot of land at 411 W. Hill Street for the construction of a black hospital. On December 18, 1888 the first cornerstone of Good Samaritan Hospital was laid in a ceremony attended by both black and white Charlotte residents. Construction of the hospital finished in 1891 and, on September 23 of the same year, the hospital opened for business. Good Samaritan Hospital was the first privately funded black hospital in North Carolina. 

Fundraising for this hospital was largely left to local black churches and community leaders like Mrs. Wilkes, who worked tirelessly on behalf of the hospital. She wrote to every Episcopal diocese in the country, as well as to many of her friends and family members who lived in New York, her home state. She sent so many bequests for financial support that one of her brothers asked her to cease. Intense fundraising efforts by black churches, Mrs. Wilkes, James Buchanan Duke (1856-1925) and W.R. Bier led to the construction of a modern addition that doubled the size of the hospital in 1925. 

During a time when many businesses did not employ people of color, Good Samaritan Hospital offered an opportunity for black doctors to practice medicine in Charlotte. Dr. James A. Pethel worked at the hospital from 1904-1950. Dr. J.T. Williams and Dr. D.E. Caldwell were the first two doctors at the hospital, and Dr. Blackman was one of the first, and only, surgeons to practice at Good Samaritan. 

Separate was never equal. Good Samaritan struggled to maintain services as they depended on the community to donate blankets, food and other supplies. The lack of basic diagnostic tools, such as a pathology lab or an x-ray department, in the hospital often hindered doctors and nurses in the practice of medicine. But today, many black Charlotteans will proudly say they were born at “Good Sam.”   

The Old North State Medical Society, a society established for black physicians who were prohibited from joining the American Medical Association, was established around the same time that Good Samaritan was built. In 1903, Good Samaritan Hospital established its own School of Nursing, with the goal to train nurses to work in the hospital, as well as give young black women the opportunity to work in an “honored” profession. 

As one of the only black hospitals in North Carolina, Good Samaritan Hospital served Charlotte’s black community in addition to black patients throughout North Carolina and surrounding states, including South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee and one patient from Wisconsin in 1902. In 1911, the hospital treated 81 patients from a train crash in Hamlet, NC which cemented the hospital’s reputation in North Carolina as a prestigious black hospital. 

The Good Samaritan Hospital Auxiliary was another source of community support. The auxiliary offered assistance to hospital staff and patients. 

The decline of Good Samaritan coincided with the Civil Rights Movement. Under the leadership of Dr. Reginald Hawkins, protests outside of the hospital led local leaders to finally decide the fate of the facility in 1962. Shutting the hospital down and selling it became a huge goal of Charlotte’s black community, as they hoped integration would provide access to the tools and methods previously unavailable to black patients at Good Samaritan. 

Good Samaritan Hospital was sold to the City of Charlotte in 1961 for one dollar and became the Charlotte Community Hospital, which was an integrated hospital associated with Charlotte Memorial Hospital (now known as Atrium Health). In 1982, the hospital was shut down and converted into Magnolia’s Rest Home, and in 1996 the Rest Home was torn down to make way for Ericsson Stadium, now known as Bank of America Stadium, in 1996. 

Though the building is gone, the memories remain. The story of Good Samaritan is an integral part of the history of Charlotte during the era of segregation. It is a testament to all black men and women who worked tirelessly to provide for the needs of others regardless of race, in spite of the limitations thrust upon them. 

 --

Citations 

Lunsford, Brandon. “Good Samaritan Hospital.” The Charlotte Museum of History. Accessed March 2020. 

https://charlottemuseum.org/good-samaritan-hospital/ 

“Old Good Samaritan Hospital.” Historic Landmarks Commission. March 6, 1985. Accessed March 2020. 

http://landmarkscommission.org/2016/11/09/old-good-samaritan-hospital/