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 9/28/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Sunday 9/27

Engage 2020: Community Conversations - Local Voices Matter   register

Monday 9/28

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

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

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

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

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

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of K-3 Students  –  12 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

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

Tuesday 9/29         

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 Spreadsheets: Microsoft Excel – 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

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 3 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

Planning for College: Central Piedmont Community College – 6 p.m.  (Teen programming)  register

Creating Resumes with the Job Help Center – 6:30 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

Wednesday 9/30

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

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

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 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

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

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

Active Reading to Read Words: Building Phonemic Awareness – 3 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

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

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

Teens Live on Instagram: Pancake Art – 5 p.m.  (Teen programming)   learn more

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

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

Thursday 10/1

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

Cuentos en 2 idiomas: inglés y 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

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

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

Story Explorer’s Enrichment – 3 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

Book Talk: Children's – 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

Friday 10/2

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

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

Ted Talks Discussion Group: The Power of Protest – 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

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 10/3

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

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

Creating Your Own Children's Book – 10 a.m.  (Adult programming)    register

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

As a Charlotte native, the Library has always been a huge part of Alexis Anderson’s life. She grew up less than five minutes from the Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library on Beatties Ford Road, and the Library became a second home to her. “My grandparents were educators and took my brother and me weekly to storytimes and to check out books in the summer,” Alexis recalls. “What I didn’t realize at the time was they were laying the foundation for a lifelong love of reading that has continued to serve me today.”

Alexis relocated to Durham, N.C. for college in 2014 and, while the city offers a plethora of library resources to serve its numerous college and university students, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library continues to stand out above the rest as an invaluable resource for Alexis. “I am currently a Master of Arts in History candidate at North Carolina Central University writing my thesis on Black student education in Charlotte from 1956-1971. There’s so much history to cover with this topic even in this relatively short time span. Compiling my research and finding primary sources has proved challenging at times,” she states.

As any good researcher would do, Alexis turned to the Library.

She sought the assistance of Sheila Bumgarner, a librarian in the Library’s Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room (RSCR) and made an appointment to meet with her on one of her visits to Charlotte. When she arrived, Sheila was prepared with several research volumes, documents and scholarly articles she and Alexis combed through together. Alexis was able to find what she needed. “Shelia was a great help and gave me a plethora of sources to use for my thesis. The Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room also provided a quiet area to study, and I returned there day after day while I was home,” Alexis says.

Just as Alexis started to dive deeper into her research, the Library closed due to rising health concerns with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the lack of physical access to the Library’s study rooms and materials did not slow her down. Instead, she turned her attention to digital e-books and resources through apps available including hoopla, Libby and NC Live. Alexis continued to access three of the texts needed for her thesis courses, along with digital versions of the textbooks, scholarly articles and documents she viewed in the RSCR. All of this was available to her with her Library card account and the click of a mouse.

“I would highly recommend the use of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library to any Charlottean or visitor,” Alexis says. “My experience has been nothing short of phenomenal thanks to my Library card.”

Sign up for your own Library card for FREE. Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and “get carded” today!

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This blog was written by Darrell Anderson of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Desplácese hacia abajo para ver la versión en español

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library advances to the second phase of our multi-phased re-opening plan Wednesday, September 30, 2020. Under this new phase, customers can spend time browsing books and materials, and make reservations to use express computers at designated branches. Customers can continue to enjoy the services permitted in our initial re-opening phase which includes holds pickup, returning materials to designated bins, access to digital resources and participation in many educational and leisure virtual programs.

The Library will continue to open under these operational hours:

• Monday-Thursday - 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday - 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Sunday - closed

Also, in this next phase, customers will be able to browse inside the branches, with the maximum number of customers varying by location.



Express computers will be available by reservation at all Library locations EXCEPT Cornelius and Davidson Libraries, as well as ImaginOn. Computers will be spaced in compliance with the 6-foot social distancing rule to ensure customer safety. Staff will also be available at all Library locations to help guide, assist and direct customers, as well as answer any questions.



Social distancing and safety measures are paramount to the success of Phase 2 operations, and plexiglass safety shields are installed at all customer service points. Customers and staff should adhere to the mask mandate ordered by North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper on June 26, 2020 which requires a mask or face covering while visiting the Library. Staff will also remind customers to abide by the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) 6-foot distancing guidelines. To ensure maintenance of comfortable distances between customers, we have placed safety decals on the floors at all locations to guide foot traffic. No seating available.

Additional safety measures include:

• Regularly scheduled cleaning of facilities and surfaces in accordance with CDC recommendations.
• Self-checkout stations available for customers to check out their own materials.
• Quarantining of returned items for a period of 96 hours. Due to this extended quarantine time for returned materials, it may take up to seven business days to reflect on your account*. NOTE: Fines and fees are suspended at this time.

The Library continues to incorporate in-person services in a responsible way that focuses on safety. We’ll continue to expand services in the upcoming weeks and months as it is safe to do so. Stay tuned for more information on the continued re-opening of services.

Thank you for your patience.



CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE LIBRARY RE-OPENING PLAN

 

Follow us on social media or visit the Library’s blog for updated information: cmlibrary.org/blog

Here’s what’s available during our second opening phase:

•  All Library staff will wear face masks or coverings, and, as of June 26, 2020 at 5 p.m., customers are required to wear masks or face coverings in accordance with North Carolina state guidelines.
• Managed number of customers in a branch at a time.
• Customers can browse for books and use express computers by reservation at all branch locations EXCEPT Cornelius and Davidson Libraries, as well as ImaginOn.
• Use of social distancing safety markers.
• Streamlined self-checkout designed for quick, in-and-out and safe, socially distanced interactions.
• Staff interaction minimal and at a distance.
• Materials and holds are available for pickup inside the branches.
• All checkouts are self-checkouts. You can scan your card (physical or on the app) and the materials. You will not need to enter your pin.
• Mobile printing is available for pickup from the branch. Learn more here.
• All material/book drops remain closed. Please return materials and books to the designated bins located at your branch during the Library’s open hours. There are signs that will direct you to the proper bin where returned materials will be received to begin the materials quarantine process.
• Fines and fees continue to be suspended.
• Programming continues online.
• Sign up for a Library card online or in person.
• No seating available.

Community and study rooms – room reservations are unavailable until further notice.

Outreach programming – continues online or virtual, as coordinated between our Outreach team and the organization.

Programming and events – all programs and events for children, teens, adults and the Job Help Center remain online in virtual formats.  Check here for the weekly schedule or visit the Calendar page on our website. 

We’re here for you online or on the phone.

You can reach our online chat during regular operating hours at cmlibrary.org and click on Ask a Librarian. Our telephone reference team is also available during normal operating hours at 704.416.0101, or you can contact your local branch location directly - visit the Branches page for more information.

*Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is working to keep materials safe by using a quarantine method. All items are held for four days upon return before check-in. Customers will see items they have returned stay on their accounts for at least seven days. Please be patient as we work to keep our collection as safe as possible. No overdue fines will be assessed during this time.

Items checked out from the Library have gone through quarantine before being placed on the Holds shelf for pickup. Please refrain from cleaning or disinfecting materials as this may damage items. Customers who wish to ensure safety of checked-out materials may do so by placing the materials in a safe space at home and letting them sit for at least 96 hours.  

Services are subject to change. 

La biblioteca ampliará sus servicios el 30 de septiembre del 2020

La Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg amplía sus servicios. Esto incluye la búsqueda de libros y materiales, el uso de las computadoras exprés mediante reserva en lugares designados y la devolución y recogida de materiales en espera. Los clientes pueden seguir disfrutando del acceso a recursos digitales gratuitos y programación virtual.

La Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg avanza a la segunda fase de nuestro plan de reapertura el miércoles 30 de septiembre del 2020. En esta nueva fase, los clientes pueden dedicar tiempo a buscar libros y materiales, y hacer reservaciones para usar computadoras exprés en sucursales designadas. Los clientes pueden seguir disfrutando de los servicios permitidos en nuestra fase de reapertura inicial, que incluyen la recogida de materiales en espera, la devolución de materiales a contenedores designados, el acceso a recursos digitales y la participación en muchos programas virtuales educativos y de entretenimiento.

La biblioteca continuará ofreciendo sus servicios en este horario de operaciones:

• De lunes a jueves - 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Los viernes y sábados - 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Los domingos - cerrada

Además, en esta próxima fase, los clientes podrán entrar a las sucursales para buscar materiales. El número máximo de clientes permitidos varía según la ubicación.



Las computadoras exprés estarán disponibles con reserva en todas las ubicaciones de las bibliotecas EXCEPTO en las bibliotecas de Cornelius y Davidson, así como en la biblioteca de ImaginOn. Las computadoras estarán espaciadas de acuerdo con la regla de distanciamiento social de 6 pies para garantizar la seguridad del cliente. El personal también estará disponible en todas las ubicaciones de la biblioteca a fin de guiar, asistir y dirigir a los clientes, así como para responder cualquier pregunta.

El distanciamiento social y las medidas de seguridad son fundamentales para el éxito de las operaciones de la Fase 2, y se instalarán escudos de seguridad de plexiglás en todos los puntos de servicio al cliente. Los clientes y el personal deben cumplir con el mandato de mascarillas ordenado por el gobernador de Carolina del Norte, Roy Cooper, el 26 de junio del 2020. Este mandato requiere usar una mascarilla o una cubierta facial mientras visitan la biblioteca. El personal también les recordará a los clientes que cumplan con la pauta de distanciamiento de 6 pies establecida por los Centros para el Control de Enfermedades (CDC por sus siglas en inglés). Para garantizar el mantenimiento de distancias cómodas entre los clientes, hemos colocado calcomanías de seguridad en los pisos en todos los lugares para guiar el tráfico peatonal. No habrá asientos disponibles.



Las medidas de seguridad adicionales incluyen:

• Limpieza programada regularmente de las instalaciones y superficies de acuerdo con las recomendaciones de los CDC.
• El uso de computadoras de autoservicio disponibles para que los clientes retiren sus propios materiales.
• Poner en cuarentena los artículos devueltos por un período de 96 horas. Debido a este tiempo de cuarentena extendido para los materiales devueltos, puede tomarse hasta siete días hábiles para que esta transacción se refleje en su cuenta. NOTA: Las multas y tarifas están suspendidas en este momento.

La biblioteca continúa ofreciendo servicios en persona de una manera responsable y segura. Continuaremos expandiendo los servicios en las próximas semanas y meses, siguiendo lineamientos de seguridad. Esté atento para obtener más información sobre la reapertura de servicios. Agradecemos su paciencia.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA VER EL PLAN COMPLETO DE REAPERTURA DE LA BIBLIOTECA.

Síganos en las redes sociales o visite el blog de la biblioteca para obtener información actualizada: https://cmlibrary.org/blog

 Esto es lo que está disponible durante nuestra segunda fase de apertura:

• Todo el personal de la biblioteca usará mascarillas o cubiertas faciales y  desde el 26 de junio del 2020 a las 5 p.m., los clientes deben usar mascarillas o cubiertas faciales de acuerdo con las pautas del estado de Carolina del Norte.
• Habrá un número limitado de clientes en una sucursal a la vez.
• Los clientes pueden buscar libros y usar computadoras exprés con reservación en todas las sucursales EXCEPTO en las bibliotecas de Cornelius y Davidson, así como en la biblioteca de ImaginOn.
• El uso de marcadores de seguridad de distanciamiento social.
• Computadoras optimizadas de autoservicio diseñadas para interacciones rápidas que procuren la entrada y salida segura del cliente  y socialmente distanciada.
• La interacción del personal es mínima y a distancia.
• Los materiales en reserva están disponibles para recogerse dentro de las sucursales.
• Todas las computadoras para retirar materiales son de autoservicio. Puede escanear su tarjeta (física o en la aplicación) y los materiales. No necesitará ingresar su PIN.
• La impresión móvil está disponible y puede recoger los documentos en las sucursales.  Infórmese más aquí.
• Todos los depósitos de materiales y libros permanecen cerrados. Devuelva los materiales y libros a los contenedores designados ubicados en su sucursal durante el horario de apertura de la biblioteca. Hay letreros que le dirigirán al contenedor adecuado donde se recibirán los materiales devueltos para comenzar el proceso de cuarentena de materiales.
• Las multas y tarifas están suspendidas por ahora.
• La programación de servicios continúa en línea.
• Regístrese para obtener una tarjeta de la biblioteca en línea o en persona.
• No habrá asientos disponibles.

Salas comunitarias y de estudio: – las reservas de los salones no están disponibles, hasta nuevo aviso.

Programación de programas comunitarios, Outreach  – estos programas continúan realizándose virtualmente, según la logística de coordinación de programas del equipo de Outreach y de la organización.

Programación y eventos – todos los programas y eventos para niños, adolescentes, adultos y el centro de ayuda laboral permanecen en línea en formatos virtuales. Consulte aquí el programa semanal o visite la página del calendario en nuestro sitio web.

Estamos aquí para servirle en línea o por teléfono.

Puede comunicarse con nuestro chat en línea durante el horario de atención habitual en cmlibrary.org y hacer clic en Ask a Librarian (pregúntele a un bibliotecario). Nuestro equipo de referencia telefónica también está disponible durante el horario normal de atención llamando al 704.416.0101, o puede comunicarse directamente con su biblioteca local; visite la página de las sucursales para obtener más información.

*La Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg está esforzándose para mantener los materiales seguros mediante el uso de un método de cuarentena. Todos los artículos se guardan durante cuatro días a partir de su devolución para luego ser procesarlos. Los clientes verán que los artículos que han devuelto permanecen en sus cuentas durante un período aproximado de siete días. Tenga paciencia mientras trabajamos para mantener nuestra colección lo más segura posible. No se cobrarán multas atrasadas durante este tiempo.

Los artículos devueltos a la biblioteca pasan por un período de cuarentena antes de colocarse en el estante de la biblioteca para su recogida. No limpie ni desinfecte los materiales, ya que esto puede dañar los artículos. Los clientes que deseen garantizar la seguridad de los materiales prestados pueden hacerlo colocando los materiales en un lugar seguro en casa y dejándolos reposar durante al menos 96 horas.

Nuestros servicios están sujetos a cambios.

Libraries across America celebrate Freedom to Read Week each year in support of free expression and the dangers of censorship. In honor of this year’s celebration, which takes place nationally on September 27-October 3, 2020, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is providing programming for ages 0-18 to celebrate intellectual freedom, First Amendment rights and raise awareness for youth and teens about censorship and book banning.

Please consider registering for one of the following virtual events and starting (or continuing) this discussion with any children and teens in your life. Help us celebrate the freedom to read.

ImaginOn Family Storytime: Freedom to Read Week

Monday, September 28, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.

You’re never too young to celebrate the First Amendment, we say! If you have a little one age 0-5, you are welcome to join our special Banned Books storytime, where we will be reading age-appropriate picture books such as And Tango Makes Three, This Day in June or Prince & Knight that have been banned or challenged in other communities for their representation of gay and trans characters. Eight of the Top Ten Most Challenged Books of 2019 were challenged because of LGBTQIA+ content. We invite you to join us virtually with an open heart and an open mind for a gentle storytime celebration of acceptance and free expression. This program will be provided by ImaginOn children’s staff. Register HERE.

ImaginOn Story Explorers: Banned Books Bingo

Wednesday, September 30th at 2 p.m.

What do the Harry Potter series, Captain Underpants, A Wrinkle in Time, and the Goosebumps series all have in common? They are on the top list of the most frequently banned books in America. If you are between ages 5-11 and would like to learn more about what books are banned and challenged in schools across the U.S. and why, please join us for this virtual Banned Books Bingo program. This program will be provided by ImaginOn children’s staff. Register HERE.

Banned Book Teen Trivia

Saturday, October 3rd at 2 p.m.

Calling all trivia fans! Test your knowledge on a variety of topics such as popular and fandom culture to win bragging rights. Come join us for an afternoon of trivia and test your knowledge for Banned Book Read. This program will be provided by South Boulevard Library staff and is recommended for teens ages 12-18. Register HERE.

All three events will take place on Zoom. You’ll receive an email with a link to the secure Zoom meeting 24 hours before the meeting. Hope to see you there!

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This blog was written by Becca Worthington of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center.

*update: the RBdigital migration has been delayed until October 21, 2020

Do you use RBdigital to check out and download digital audioboooks? OverDrive has acquired the RBdigital platform, and on October 15, 2020 audiobook content from RBdigital will move to the OverDrive platform. Read more about the acquisition here.

The RBdigital website and application will eventually be retired but for now this change will only affect RBdigital audiobook content. Digital magazines will still be available via RBdigital. 

If you are a current RBdigital user, please read the answers to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below to learn how this change will affect you.

Why are RBdigital audiobooks moving to OverDrive?

OverDrive has acquired RBmedia’s library business, RBdigital. This means that audiobooks from RBdigital will be transferred to the OverDrive platform. You will be able to access these titles through the OverDrive website, and the Libby app. When this transfer is complete, audiobooks will no longer be available through the RBdigital platform and app.

When will audiobooks be transferred from RBdigital to OverDrive?

RBdigital audiobooks will be transferred to OverDrive on Thursday, October 15, 2020. The process will take approximately 24 hours. During this time, RBdigital audiobooks will not be available.

What happens if I have a title(s) currently checked out on RBdigital?

Current checkouts will be available through the remainder of their lending period in the RBdigital app. Current checkouts will not be moved to OverDrive. This will allow you to finish your title without disruption or risk of losing your place in the book.

What happens to the holds I have through RBdigital?

Holds will not be moved to OverDrive. You can export your Transaction History from the RBdigital website by accessing My Account > Profiles.

Can I move my holds to OverDrive?

Yes! You can manually place yourself on a new holds list in OverDrive.

• To place holds on titles in OverDrive, search Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s OverDrive collection to see if the audiobook you’d like to place on hold is already part of the collection. If the audiobook is already in the collection, place a hold on this title again in OverDrive or Libby to add yourself to the list. Don’t worry if you do not see the title in the collection. It will show up soon after the title is transferred from RBdigital to OverDrive.  In the event that the title does not transfer, you can suggest the Library purchase titles here.

What happens to my checkout history and wish lists from RBdigital?

Checkout history and wish lists will not be moved to OverDrive. You can export your Transaction History from the RBdigital website by accessing My Account > Profiles. To re-create your checkout history in Libby, mark titles you’ve already read using Tags. You can also re-create your wish list in Libby using Tags or on the OverDrive website and classic app using the Wish List feature.

If you’re new to OverDrive, visit our OverDrive resource page, check out this getting started guide, or watch these videos to learn more.

Don’t have a library card? Sign up for one here!

If you need more support, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library staff are available by email, chat, and phone.  

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