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 online programming for children, teens and adults. See a complete listing of this upcoming programming for the week of 12/21/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 12/21

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  Learn  more

Book a Librarian - Nonprofit Services – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children’s programming)  register

Mindful Mondays - Guided Relaxation and Meditation – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Parent Lunch & Learn: The Gift of Library Resources – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children’s programming)  register

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

Book a Librarian – Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 4 p.m. (Children's programming) register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 5 p.m. (Children's programming) register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 6 p.m. (Children's programming) register

Tuesday 12/22       

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  Learn  more

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

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

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

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

Creating Resumes for the Job Help Center – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children's programming) register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 6 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Wednesday 12/23

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  Learn  more

Active Reading Family Workshop- Part 1 – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children’s programming)  register

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

Teens Live on Instagram: Life Skills – 2 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children’s programming)  register

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

Book a Librarian – Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 4 p.m. (Children's programming) register

Thursday 12/24

LIBRARY CLOSED- NO PROGRAMMING

Friday 12/25

LIBRARY CLOSED- NO PROGRAMMING

Saturday 12/26

LIBRARY CLOSED- NO PROGRAMMING

Many people would rather run in the opposite direction rather than encounter any government information. But they would be missing out on amazing publications. One of them is from The National Aeronautics and Atmospheric Administration (NASA). They publish wonderful books about space and our efforts to understand it. Starting in 2001, a division of NASA started an art project using images taken of earth from space. The Earth as Art images are amazing and we have the book you can check out. Our library was able to host an exhibit of 24 of these on canvas at Main Library.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library was designated a Federal Depository Library in 1962 by Senator B. Everett Jordan. Today, there are 1,115 U.S. libraries in the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) including the U.S. Senate Library, university libraries, law libraries and we are one of 175 public libraries with this proud distinction.

The FDLP has been part of the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) (formerly Government Printing Office) since 1895, providing government information to libraries serving the needs of people across the nation for information by and about their federal government.

Providing information from the federal government can cover a lot of territory. There are hundreds of federal agencies (the U.S. Government Manual lists them!) and they all produce information. In fact, the United States government is the largest publisher in the world. Today, a lot of that is published online through websites, databases and social media.

Our library’s Federal Documents Collection includes print, maps, microfiche, DVDs and catalog records with links to online publications. We are a “Selective Library” so do not receive everything the GPO publishes, but a selection of items that would interest our community. There are essential documents such as the 50 volumes of The United States Code  which is The Law for our entire country and the 244 volumes of The Code of Federal Regulations which enforce that law. These titles are also online at www.govinfo.gov, but not everyone has internet access, so our library has these available in print too.

(Left) U.S. Code books and (right) The Federal Code of Regulations.

The Department of Defense publishes military history titles veterans, history buffs and students enjoy. There are titles about all branches of service from the Revolutionary War up to present conflicts. Some are about specific battles such as the World War II (WWII) Bismarck Archipelago, or annual publications such as  Missile Defense Review, or personal experiences such as Eyewitness to War-The US Army in Operation AL FAJR : An Oral History.

The United States Census Bureau has counted every person living in the United States every 10 years since 1790. It has other surveys to collect demographics, business and economic data between those 10 years. Our library has access to all those statistics either in print or online. The annual Statistical Abstract of the United States provides thousands of tables. These statistics are used all over the world by governments, businesses, nonprofits and students to study, plan and make decisions based on authoritative data.

(Left) Statistical Abstract of the United States

The Library of Congress (LOC) is the largest library in the world, with millions of books, recordings, photographs, newspapers, maps and manuscripts in its collections. The LOC is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. There are exhibits and programs galore. Our library has been able to receive several traveling exhibits and poster sets for display from the LOC.

Maps are also a fun way to learn about a place. Our library has topographical maps from the United State Geological Survey (USGS) for North Carolina and surrounding states. We even have sets of the copper plates that were used to create a few of the maps in our Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room at Main Library. The USGS uses information to inform us about changes in our world. Other maps have come from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The CIA World Factbook containing an amazing amount of international information.

(Left) Copper plates in the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room and (right) the "Rightfully Hers"exhibit from the LOC.

If you are interested in history or political science, the U.S. State Department provides an amazing collection called the Foreign Relations of the United States. These are speeches, letters, memorandums, telegraphs and more about specific incidents or time periods.

For publications that are created and intended to be accessed online, our library has catalog records with links taking you directly to that information. Would you like coloring pages of wildflowers that tell you what color each part of the plant should be? See Celebration of Wildflowers from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

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This blog was written by Mimi Curlee, federal depository librarian, at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

August is here, and with this onset comes a brand-new school year, often with shiny school supplies, fresh uniforms, clothes and even a new pair of shoes if you’re lucky. For many of us this year, the back-to-school rush and necessities look different as school-age children will mostly return to school in a virtual setting. This presents new challenges. While you may not buy new uniforms or a new backpack this year, you still need to prepare for what’s ahead and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is here to support all your back to school needs.

Virtual Learning Opportunities

Did you know that the Library provides a multitude of virtual learning programs to enrich your child’s academic and social skills? The calendar is filled weekly with school-age programming you can enjoy from anywhere! If your child can’t make the live programs, you can find them archived online at your convenience. You’ll find many pre-recorded programs to enjoy too! Some sample program titles include: Make Your Own Animation, Magical Creature Book Talk and even Fireworks in a Glass. Invite your child to view our specialized content to elevate and extend their learning. Virtual programming is not limited to children in elementary schooler, it’s available for all age groups. Teens can join in writing groups, book clubs, trivia sessions and gaming sessions such Dungeons and Dragons. While you get into your back-to-school routine, be sure to join a group and meet new friends.

ONE Access and Curated Lists by Grade Level

Every child in the Charlotte Mecklenberg School system can use their student ID number as their Library card number – this is called a ONE Access ID number (the pin number is your child’s birth year). Yes, you heard that right! It’s called ONE Access, or One Number Equals Access, and it makes it very convenient for your child to place books on hold or check out digital resources. Our Library staff have even created curated lists for students to read by grade level. Check them out here: Elementary, Middle and High School. Your child’s ONE Access ID number doesn’t just limit them to books. There are many e-resources to utilize such as Tutor.com (up to 10 free, live homework tutoring sessions each week), Mango Languages (learn a new language) and Freegal music (for any planned or unplanned dance party breaks!). The possibilities are endless with free learning resources offered through your Library.

Educational Support

The Library is committed to improving lives and building a stronger community – a lofty goal as evidenced by our commitment to programming and helping your child prepare for their next step beyond high school. Library branches offer one-on-one weekly virtual appointments with teens to discuss how to successfully plan for the future. Library staff members can connect your high schooler with resources to plan for a potential job or college process, including financial aid and scholarship opportunities. One-on-one virtual appointments are available daily for elementary schoolers as well for Reading Buddies, tutoring and enrichment! Feel back-to-school ready knowing your local Library will support your child’s learning beyond the (virtual) classroom.

Parent Learning Opportunities

Getting ready for the start of a new school year is not limited to children. Parents and caregivers can get back-to-school ready by learning something new too! Virtual caregiver classes are offered for a variety of age levels (children ages 2-5, students in grades K-5). Learn how to read WITH your child, and improve your child’s language, vocabulary and comprehension skills. Classes are also offered on how to access our digital Library resources for virtual learning. Build your confidence and meet other caregivers just like you- we're all in this together!

While the return to school this year presents new challenges, it also presents new opportunities. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is prepared to meet this challenge with you, fully equipped and ready to provide you and your school-age child with an opportunity to learn and grow. Take advantage of the opportunities that await you and your children this school year!  

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This blog was written by Elyse Berrier of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

Thank you for participating in the double Summer Break challenge for 2020! We hope you enjoyed your experience with our new website through Beanstack.

We’ll be sending out a survey in a few weeks asking for feedback, and we would love to hear from you! If you have a great story about how participating in Summer Break helped you or your family this summer, please share this with us! We would love to hear inspiring stories of how reading and learning makes a difference in your lives.

Your Reading Makes A Difference!

Many of you may have noticed that you earned a “Giving Makes the World Go Round Badge.” Participants earn this badge when they reach 15 hours of reading in each Summer Break challenge.

Every summer, the Library gives back to the community by donating books to a local organization in need. This year’s recipient will be Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is happy to donate to CMS and we are thankful the school system will accept the contributions.  

Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere Prize Pickup Is Underway!

Remember, participants have until Saturday, September 26^th to claim and pick up prizes while supplies last.

The registration prize of a FREE Wendy's Jr. Frosty coupon can be picked up at any library.

For completion prizes, customers must call 704-416-7200 to claim their prize before visiting a library. Staff can assist them with their accounts and any questions as well as give them the next steps to get their prize. Customers who earn a Wendy’s Jr. Frosty coupon do not need to call the line above to claim, just visit any Charlotte Mecklenburg Library branch.

What are the completion prizes?

Participants in Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere earn a completion prize when they achieve 600 points.

Completion prizes are:

• Babies/children: a book
• Teens: choice of a book or doodle notebook
• Adults: A Library tote bag

All prizes are first-come, first-serve while supplies last.

"This was my favorite storytime because you look like me!” Ella exclaimed. “And the girls we read about look like me."

In a world where little Black girls don’t often see themselves reflected in mainstream media and art, something special happened on June 19, 2020. That something was when Tiffany Howard’s eldest daughter felt represented through literature and connected with her University City Regional Library Reading Buddy, Annese.

 As the world continues to turn, caught somewhere between reeling and reviving itself from the coronavirus pandemic, the Howard family, like many Charlotte Mecklenburg Library customers, find themselves pivoting to new, virtual ways to enjoy their neighborhood Library. For Tiffany, the gratitude runs deep.

A Charlotte native, psychologist for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, wife and mother to two growing and glowing girls, Ella and Zora (a third grader and first grader, respectively), Tiffany recalls the impact the public library had on shaping her own love for reading while providing her access to an additional education. “The library has always been important to me,” said Howard. “I was excited to pick up books that I’d read while sitting under the cart while my mom did her grocery shopping,” she added.



Literacy and learning weren’t reserved solely for visits to her beloved North Branch Public Library (which opened in 1957 and served the Beatties Ford Road neighborhood) or trips to the grocery store. Reading was also important in her home and to her family. Even her brother would find delight in reading all the books on their great grandmother’s bookshelf. For Tiffany, reading was about self-discovery, and it still is. “We are intentional about finding books that represent our girls, our family, their beauty and our culture,” she said.

Today, Tiffany advocates for public libraries as vital, cultural institutions that provide integral resources to the communities they serve – resources from which she and her family continue to benefit. “We started with baby storytime, then we’d go afterschool to check out books,” she said. “Next, we moved to the Reading Buddies program in person and, now, online,” she added.

To others in the community, Tiffany finds herself recommending Library resources – from digital to programming to events, including storytimes, ABCmouse digital resource, the ONE Access program for CMS students and cultural events like the Library’s Black History Month Literary Festival. At that festival in February 2020, Ella received a custom drawing of herself from illustrator Gordon C. James, which is now displayed in her room. Tiffany also attended an Active Reading training a few years ago, which helped her husband develop skills to actively read with their daughters, further deepening their appreciation for library services.

Tiffany sees libraries as equalizers: they are a place for everyone, from all walks of life, and a space to learn and to belong. “Education is the most important tool to change the world and the library makes that possible for all,” she stated. “Libraries promote language, literacy, learning and more.”

Tiffany describes her daughters as artsy and creative and believes one of the most important things she can leave them with is a passion for reading and a legacy of learning. “It feels good, as a parent and an educator, to know that even when school is out my girls want to go to the Library,” she said.

As for the Reading Buddy session from June, Tiffany said Ella was grateful for the interaction, one-on-one time and the opportunity to see herself represented in a whole new way. “It made her feel special to talk to someone who selected a book and took time to read with her – who just so happened to look like her, too.”

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This blog was written by Asha Ellison of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

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 8/24/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 8/24

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  Learn more

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 10:30 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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children’s programming)   register

Remote Learning 101: Library Resources to Enhance Your Child's Learning – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

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

Book a Librarian – Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming) register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 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)  learn more

Stronger Together: Support for your Job Search – 4 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Podcast Discussion Club – 7 p.m. (Adult programming) register

Tuesday 8/25            

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  Learn more

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

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

Getting Started with Microsoft Word – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

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

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

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

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

Wednesday 8/26

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)  Learn more

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

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)  register

Poetry in Pajamas – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 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 Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Teens LIVE on Instagram: Your Voice Matters – 5 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

Learning Circle: The 1619 Project – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Thursday 8/27

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  Learn more

Virtual Reading Buddies – 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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

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

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

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

Caregiver Class: Active Reading Training for Caregivers of K-3 Students – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Learning Circle: Foundations of Mindfulness – 3 p.m. (Adult programming) register

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

Book Talk: Children's – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Caregiver Class: Active Reading Comprehension Strategies for Upper Elementary – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Teens LIVE on Instagram: Eco-Minimalism – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)   learn more

Friday 8/28

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)  Learn more

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

Baby Storytime – 10:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)   learn more

Meal Prepping and Planning Made Easy – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

Mindful Friday - Meditation for Wellness – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Learning Circle: How to Be an LGBT+ Ally – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 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 Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Saturday 8/29

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

During this time of uncertainty, many of us are looking at ways to improve ourselves internally. Hoopla has a great selection of self-help audiobooks to help you on your journey. Here are the top five that Charlotte Mecklenburg Library customers have been streaming this month. Discover these titles and so much more. All you need is your Charlotte Mecklenburg Library card or One Access ID number!

Learn more about hoopla and checkout limits here. Need a library card?  Sign up here.

Click here to find the self-help audiobooks below in the Library catalog.

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear-A Summary/Read by Best Self Audio (2019)
Learn how you can apply the main lessons & principles from Atomic habits: An Easy & Prove Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones in a quick, easy listen!  Run time: 56 minutes

Me and White Supremacy by Layla F. Saad/Read by Author (2020)  
Me and White Supremacy teaches readers how to dismantle the privilege within themselves. Run time: 5 hours and 20 minutes

The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown/Read by Author (2012)
The author dispels the cultural myth that vulnerability is weakness and reveals that it is, in truth, our most accurate measure of courage. Run time: 6 hours and 31 minutes

How to Win Friends and Influence People: A Condensation From the Book by Dale Carnegie/Read by Jason McCoy (2019)
Learning to relate to people in the ways Carnegie instructs will help you personally as well as professionally. This is a condensation of the original book. Run time: 43 minutes.

The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile/Read by Ian Morgan Cron (2016)
In The Road Back To You the authors forge a unique approach, a practical, comprehensive way of accessing Enneagram wisdom and exploring its connections with Christian spirituality for a deeper knowledge of God and of ourselves. Run 9 hours and 18 minutes.

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This blog was written by Serena Guest of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

Have you wanted to read up on inclement weather patterns, pandemics throughout history or indulge in a good mystery? Maybe you’re in the mood for romance, need clean, teen reads or want to educate yourself on issues facing the LGBTQIA+ community. Whatever your interests are, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has a book list for you.

Staff work throughout the year to compile and update lists in the Library’s online catalog system so customers don’t have to look hard for what they need. Book list topics range from anything to almost everything. To view the Library’s book lists, complete the following steps:

• Visit cmlibrary.org
  
   
• Click the green CATALOG button
  
  

• Sign into your Library Bibliocommons account or search as a guest
• Select LIST from the SEARCH BY drop-down menu. Make sure you are searching the CATALOG.

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• In the search bar,  complete a search using “CMLibrary" to pull results specific to Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.  You can also search using "CMLibrary suggests” or by using a hashtag (#) search such as #cmlibrary. You will also want to include a keyword in your search for the topic you’re interested in (for this    example, we’re searching for books about dogs). Click the magnifying glass symbol to the right of the box to complete the search and return results
  
  
  
  
  
  

If the Library’s Bibliocommons lists leave you longing for more, you can opt for something a bit more personal: a curated list of reading recommendations made just for you!

That’s right. In addition to book lists, you can submit a request for a Personal Reading List by filling out this form and our online Readers’ Advisory team will put together a list of reading suggestions that will be sent directly to your email account. You can access this page by completing the following steps:

• Visit cmlibrary.org
  
   
• Click the orange SERVICES button
  
  

• On the SERVICES page, click FIND YOUR NEXT READ under “Additional services include:”
  
  
  
   

• Fill out and submit the form on the FIND YOUR NEXT READ page. Please ensure the email address you provide for this service is accurate.*
  
  

*Note: Your Personal Reading List will be sent to the email you provide within 3-5 business days. You can use your list to check out books from your local branch or download an e-book or e-audiobook from cmlibrary.org.

Finding your next favorite read at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is easy with the options listed above.

Digital Reading Resources

The Library also has several great digital resources to help you find new reading materials as well:

Books and Authors

Books and Authors is a literary collection that lets you browse by character, subject, location and time period.

Access

Novelist Plus

NoveList provides reading recommendations for fiction and nonfiction materials for adults, teens, tweens (ages 9-12) and children (ages 0-8).

Access

Teen Book Finder

Find great recommended books from YALSA's (Young Adult Library Services Association) award, book, and media lists! Search 4,000+ books, audiobooks, and films from YALSA's book awards and book lists.

Access

Need a Library card to start borrowing items? Get a Library card here.

Happy reading!

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This blog was updated on June 29, 2021.

Desplácese hacia abajo para ver la versión en español



The Queen City is the 17^th largest city in the United States and we welcome more than 42 new residents every single day, according to U.S. Census data. Some come from across the state, others from across the country and some are even from across the world. To support our growing community, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library celebrates National Welcoming Week from September 11-20.   

In support of our Library’s guiding principle to be a welcoming place to all, we chose the following four book titles to examine and celebrate the experiences of those new to our beautiful city. There is a book for every age group and each title was chosen to provide access to as many people as possible.

Each title is available in English and Spanish and may be borrowed in a variety of formats.

Preschool (Ages 3-7)

The Day You Begin

Written by Jacqueline Woodson

(English, Spanish, e-book, e-audiobook)

A lyrical picture book that describes those moments when a child may be marked as different or an outsider from their classmates. This might be because of the color of their skin, their clothes, their accent, an intellectual disability or even something as small as what they eat. The beautiful illustrations created by Rafael López give us a whimsical view of how to shape personal connections when we feel all alone in the world.

School Age (Ages 8-11)

My Name is Maria Isabel by Alma Flor Ada

(English, Spanish e-book)

Maria Isabel, called Mary by her teacher, just moved to the United States from Puerto Rico. She wants nothing more than to fit in with her classmates despite their differences. The author does a compelling job of capturing Maria’s special connection to family and the many anxieties faced as the new kid in school.

Teens (Ages 12-17)

The Only Road; The Crossroads

Alexandra Diaz

(English, Spanish, e-audiobook)

The Only Road is an award-winning book inspired by true events about escaping violence and moving to America to find a better life. In the sequel, The Crossroads, the main characters discover what it means to live as undocumented immigrants in the United States, while news from home gets increasingly worse.

 Adults (Ages 18 and up)

Americanah

Ngozi Adichie

(English, Spanish, e-book, e-audiobook, large print, Spanish e-book)

Ifemelu and Obinze meet and fall in love as teenagers in Lagos, Nigeria. After graduating, both set off for independent adventures in different countries. How will their experiences as immigrants change them forever? And when, years later, they meet again, will they be the same people they once were?

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library celebrates newcomers to Charlotte all year long through its #WelcomeCLT initiative. The purpose of #welcomeCLT is to provide new residents (with an emphasis on international newcomers) with information and resources about their new community. The WelcomeCLT.org page provides information for new residents and each Library branch is equipped with an information kiosk full of information about their new community. Customers are also encouraged to browse the calendar for upcoming virtual programs specifically designed to ease the transition into our great city.

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This blog was written by Lonna Vines at the Hickory Grove branch of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

La ciudad reina es la decimoséptima ciudad más grande de los Estados Unidos y da la bienvenida a más de 42 nuevos residentes cada día, según datos del censo EE.UU. Algunos provienen de todo el estado, otros de todo el país y algunos incluso son de todo el mundo. Para apoyar a nuestra comunidad en crecimiento, la Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg celebra la semana nacional de bienvenida del 11 al 20 de septiembre.

Siguiendo los lineamientos que nuestra institución establece de abrir sus puertas a todas las poblaciones, elegimos los siguientes cuatro títulos de libros para examinar y celebrar las experiencias de los nuevos residentes en nuestra hermosa ciudad. Hay un libro para cada grupo de edad y cada título se eligió para brindar acceso a la mayor cantidad de personas posible.

Cada título está disponible en inglés y español y se puede pedir prestado en una variedad de formatos.

Preescolar (de 3 a 7 años)

El Día en que Descubres Quién Eres

Escrito por Jacqueline Woodson

(Disponible en inglés y español, y como libro electrónico y audiolibro electrónico)

Un libro de imágenes líricas que describe esos momentos en los que un niño puede ser etiquetado como diferente o extraño a sus compañeros de clase. Esto puede deberse al color de su piel, su ropa, su acento, una discapacidad intelectual o incluso algo tan pequeño como lo que comen. Las hermosas ilustraciones creadas por Rafael López nos dan una visión peculiar de cómo crear conexiones personales cuando nos sentimos completamente solos en el mundo.

Edad escolar (de 8 a 11 años)

Me llamo Maria Isabel

Escrito por Alma Flor Ada

(Disponible en inglés y español y como libro electrónico)

María Isabel, llamada María por su maestra, se acaba de mudar a los Estados Unidos desde Puerto Rico. Lo que más desea es encajar con sus compañeros de clase a pesar de sus diferencias.

La autora hace un trabajo convincente al capturar la conexión especial de María con la familia y la gran ansiedad que enfrenta como la nueva niña en la escuela.







 

Adolescentes (de 12-17 años)

El único destino​; La encrucijada

Escrito por Alexandra Diaz

(Disponible en inglés y español y como audiolibro electrónico)

El único destino​ es un libro galardonado inspirado en hechos reales sobre cómo escapar de la violencia y mudarse a Estados Unidos para encontrar una mejor vida. En la secuela, La encrucijada, los protagonistas descubren lo que significa vivir como inmigrantes indocumentados en Estados Unidos, mientras las noticias desde casa empeoran cada vez más.









 

Adultos (de 18 años en adelante)

Americanah

Escrito por Ngozi Adichie

(Disponible en inglés y español y como libro electrónico, audiolibro electrónico, letra grande y libro electrónico en español)  

Ifemelu y Obinze se conocen y se enamoran durante su adolescencia en Lagos, Nigeria. Después de graduarse, partieron independientemente a diferentes países. ¿De qué manera sus experiencias como inmigrantes cambiarán sus vidas para siempre? Y cuando, años después, se reencuentren, ¿Serán las mismas personas que alguna vez fueron?



 

La Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg con orgullo celebra y da la bienvenida a las personas recién llegadas a Charlotte durante todo el año a través de su iniciativa #WelcomeCLT. El propósito de #WelcomeCLT es proporcionar a los nuevos residentes (con énfasis en los recién llegados internacionales) información y recursos sobre su nueva comunidad. La página WelcomeCLT.org proporciona información para los nuevos residentes y cada sucursal de la biblioteca está equipada con un quiosco de información sobre su nueva comunidad. También se anima a los clientes a buscar en el calendario los próximos programas virtuales diseñados específicamente para facilitar la transición a nuestra gran ciudad.

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Este blog fue escrito por Lonna Vines en la sucursal de Hickory Grove de la Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg

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 8/31/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Sunday 8/30

Engage 2020: Community Conversations - Local Voices Matter – 3 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Monday 8/31

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   Learn more

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children’s programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 12 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Remote Learning 101: Library Resources to Enhance Your Child's Learning – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

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

Book a Librarian – Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 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)  learn more

Stronger Together: Support for your Job Search – 4 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 6 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Tuesday 9/1            

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  Learn more

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

Getting Started with Microsoft Word – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 12 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

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

Intro to Proposal Writing – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children's programming)   learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 6 p.m. (Children's programming)    register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 6 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Sparking Creativity for Teens – 6 p.m.  (Teen programming)   register

Wednesday 9/2

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)    Learn more

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

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 12 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children’s programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children’s programming)   register

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

Book a Librarian – Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 4 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Teens LIVE on Instagram: DIY Jean Embroidery – 5 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 5 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 6 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 6 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Learning Circle: The 1619 Project – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Thursday 9/3

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   Learn more

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

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 12 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

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

Learning Circle: American Sign Language – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Learning Circle: Foundations of Mindfulness – 3 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Story Explorer’s Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

Book Talk: Children's – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)    learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 6 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 6 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Friday 9/4

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)    Learn more

Baby Storytime – 10:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)   learn more

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

Meal Prepping and Planning Made Easy – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

Engage 2020: Ted Talks Discussion: The Importance of Seeking The Whole Story – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 12 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

Mindful Friday - Meditation for Wellness – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Learning Circle: How to Be an LGBT+ Ally – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 1 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 Tutoring and Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Saturday 9/5

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