As we all learn to work in a new environment, technology skills have never been more important. Whether just getting started with technology or looking to brush up on your skills, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has something for you. Our popular “DigiLit” program – short for Digital Literacy – has gone online and is now accessible from home.   

What is DigiLit?  

The Library’s digital literacy brand: ‘DigiLit’ provides a range of technology training options. We offer a variety of learning tracks, from Basic Skills to Workplace Tools. We are currently offering our technology classes and 1-on-1 technology appointments online using Zoom video chat software.  Learn about Zoom here.

What classes are coming up? 

We are currently running a schedule of our Basic Skills and Workplace Tools classes, which feature popular Microsoft Office software and Google services. We continue to add more online classes, so please check cmlibrary.org/calendar frequently for the most up-to-date class availability.

Getting Started with Microsoft Excel Thursday, February 25  at 5:30 p.m.

In this introductory workshop, create a simple spreadsheet using Microsoft Excel. Participants must be comfortable with working in the Windows environment, and basic knowledge of Microsoft Word is helpful.

Beyond the Basics: Microsoft Excel Saturday, February 27 @ 1 p.m.

Go Beyond the Basics and learn to create formulas, functions, spreadsheet modifications, charts and graphs. Previous Excel experience is required.

Getting Started with Microsoft PowerPoint, Tuesday, March 2 at 11 a.m. 

In this introductory class, you'll learn how to create, edit, and save a presentation, as well as learn basic formatting techniques, including how to navigate the various functions in Microsoft PowerPoint. 

Beyond the Basics: Microsoft PowerPoint, Tuesday, March 9 at 11 a.m. 

Go beyond the basics and learn to create charts and graphs, adjust presentation timings, and add multimedia effects in this second of a two-part series introducing Microsoft PowerPoint. Previous Microsoft PowerPoint experience is required. 

Smartphone Basics Thursday, March 11 at 2 p.m.

Are you thinking about buying a smartphone? Do you already own one and want to learn more? Join the library to discuss several key features for mobile computing devices.

Getting Started with Microsoft Excel, Tuesday, March 16 at 11 a.m. 

In this introductory workshop, create a simple spreadsheet using Microsoft Excel. Participants must be comfortable with working in the Windows environment, and basic knowledge of Microsoft Word is helpful. 

Getting Started with Microsoft Outlook, Thursday, March 18 at 2 p.m.

If you're new to email, join us to create an email account using Microsoft's free email service Outlook. Learn to send emails, attach files, manage your contacts and organize your inbox.

Beyond the Basics: Microsoft Excel, Tuesday, March 23 at 11 a.m. 

Go Beyond the Basics and learn to create formulas, functions, spreadsheet modifications, charts, and graphs. Previous Excel experience is required. 

Getting Started with Microsoft OneDrive, Thursday, March 25 at 2 p.m.

Are you thinking about a better way to back-up your files? If you're new to the cloud, join us to create an account using Microsoft's free cloud service OneDrive. Learn to use cloud storage, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Canva Design Class: Presentations, Thursday, March 25 at 6 p.m.

Are you looking for an alternative to PowerPoint or Google Slides? Join us for this hour-long tutorial on how to create beautiful slides that strengthen your message and present your information clearly and effectively. Some experience with Canva is required. 

Beyond the Basics: Intro to Microsoft Excel PivotTables, Tuesday, April 6 at 11 a.m. 

Have you ever wondered what is an Excel PivotTable and how it is used?  Join us as we explore what many people say is one of Excel's most powerful features. Learn how to organize your data for a PivotTable, how to create and manipulate them, and how to arrange the data in a format anyone can read--even if they don't know Excel! This is an ADVANCED class. Must be familiar with Excel. 

Getting Started with Gmail, Thursday, April 8 at 2 p.m.

If you're new to email, join us to create an email account using Google's free email service Gmail. Learn to send emails, attach files, manage your contacts and organize your inbox.

Canva Design Class , Tuesday, April 13 at 11 a.m. 

No design experience? No problem! Join us for this introductory course to Canva.com, a graphics design website that allows you to create stunning (and free!) flyers, business cards, and more in order to promote your business or personal brand! 

Getting Started with Google Drive, Thursday, April 15 at 2 p.m.

Are you thinking about a better way to back-up your files? If you're new to the cloud, join us to create an account using Google's free cloud service, Google Drive. Learn to use cloud storage, as well as managing, sharing, and real-time editing of files.  AN ACTIVE GMAIL ACCOUNT IS REQUIRED.

Smartphone Basics, Tuesday, April 20 at 11 a.m.

Are you thinking about buying a smartphone? Do you already own one and want to learn more? Join the library to discuss several key features for mobile computing devices.

Want to be notified about future events? Subscribe to our newsletter here.

What can I expect in a virtual technology class?  

Our classes are held via Zoom. You will need to register for the class you are interested in and then a Zoom link will be emailed to you. Once you join the Zoom call, your instructor will begin the class and you can ask questions using the chat feature. Most classes do allow you to do exercises along with the instructor and practice on your own. If you are new to using Zoom, we recommend this quick tutorial. 

Where can I find more resources?   

You can download the curriculum packets from our classes, find links to more resources, and more, at our DigiLit homepage here.

This blog was written as part of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library's Black Lives Matter program initiative. Learn  more about the program and corresponding events here.

This month, our nation will celebrate the 92nd birthday of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. To say that Black lives mattered to Dr. King would be an understatement — not only did he recognize the importance of Black lives, but he fought and paid the ultimate price for them with his own life. It is only fitting that we celebrate his birthday every January to commemorate his life and legacy.

In 1967, Dr. King delivered a speech entitled The Other America to students and staff at Stanford University. In his speech, Dr. King cites two stark realities for American citizens. He describes one America as "overflowing with the milk of prosperity and the honey of opportunity. This America is the habitat of millions of people who have food and material necessities for their bodies; and culture and education for their minds; and freedom and human dignity for their spirits." This America, according to Dr. King,  allows young people to "grow up in the sunlight of opportunity." But there is also the “Other America”. Dr. King states this Other America "has a daily ugliness about it that constantly transforms the ebulliency of hope into the fatigue of despair." This America is besieged by unemployment, poverty, and despair, and as we fast forward to today, one might ask if the “Other America” is still prevalent today?

In 2011, Michael Moore revealed in his piece The Forbes 400 vs. Everybody Else that the Forbes 400 boasted more wealth than the bottom 50% of U.S. households combined. With an even timelier topic, we also know that the African American and Latinx communities are disproportionately affected by police violence as reported by the Washington Post this month. The Other America seems just as relevant today as when Dr. King first spoke of it over 50 years ago.

The American Library Association (ALA), Social Responsibilities Round Table (SRRT), Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Task Force, and the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) will host its first-ever virtual Martin Luther King Jr. Sunrise Celebration scheduled for Monday, January 25 at 11 a.m. The keynote speaker for the celebration will be V.P. Franklin, author of The Young Crusaders: The Untold Story of the Children and Teenagers Who Galvanized the Civil Rights Movement, with the Call-To-Action delivered by Librarian of Congress and past ALA-President Carla Hayden. This virtual event is in conjunction with Beacon Press and OCLC and will be livestreamed on ALA's YouTube Channel. The theme of the event is fittingly The Other America. “As a co-chair of this event, I would like to invite all of you to join us for this rare opportunity to experience an event that has become a hallmark celebration at the annual ALA Midwinter meetings,” says LaJuan Pringle, branch leader at West Boulevard Library. “Regardless of whether you register for the virtual 2021 Midwinter Meeting, you can still gain access to this event. Please join us if you can!”

This blog post was written by LaJuan Pringle, branch leader at West Boulevard 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 online programming for children, teens and adults. See a complete listing of this upcoming programming for the week of 1/11/2021 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Daily appointments for Reading Buddies and Tutoring and Enrichment for school-age children can be accessed by clicking here. Adult Book Clubs, Writing Groups and Conversation Clubs happen weekly too!

Monday 1/11

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

Davidson Branch Family Storytime – 10 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Career Talk Over Coffee – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

Technology Tutoring – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Steele Creek Branch Creating with Books: Preschool STEAM – 2 p.m. (Children’s programming)  register

University City Family Storytime – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

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

Davidson Story Explorers – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

My Next Step for Teens – 4 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Independence Regional Branch STEAM 101: Gourmet Hot Chocolate for Teens – 4 p.m. (Teen programming)   register

Clayworks Workshop – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Mountain Island Branch Evening Storytime – 5:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Avoiding Eviction: Know Your Rights and Resources Presented by LegalAid of North Carolina – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Tuesday 1/12       

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

Matthews Branch Family Storytime – 10:15 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Sugar Creek Branch Preschool Storytime: Just for Me – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

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

Hickory Grove Branch Preschool Storytime – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn  more

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

Healthy Living for Brain and Body – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Parent Lunch and Learn: Emotional Support for Young Families – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

History's Mysteries: How our Post Office Created America – 1 p.m. (Adult programming) 

Technology Tutoring – 2 p.m.   register

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

Mock Interview for Teens – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

West Boulevard Branch Family Storytime – 3 p.m. (Children’s programming)  learn more

Writing Group for Teens – 4 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Hickory Grove Preteen Scene: Comic Book Club – 4:30 p.m. (Children’s programming)  register

Matthews Branch Chess Club – 5 p.m. (Children’s programming) register

South Boulevard STEAM 101 Art Club for Teens – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Teen Trivia Night: JackBox Games – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Plaza Midwood Branch Pajama Storytime – 7 p.m. (Children’s programming)  learn more

Wednesday 1/13

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

Cornelius Branch Family Storytime – 10 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Mountain Island Branch Family Storytime – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Mint Hill Branch Family Storytime – 11:15 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Finding Your Roots Using Ancestry.com: Library Edition – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)

Answering Interview Questions – 1:30 p.m. (Adult programming)   

Technology Tutoring – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

South Boulevard Branch Listen and Move Storytime – 2 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

North County Regional Preschool STEM Program – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Random Fandom Teen Trivia – 4 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

French Conversation Club for Teens – 4 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Hickory Grove Branch Community Service for Teens – 4:30 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

News Literacy with Checkology – 5 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Welcome CLT: Citizenship – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

Thursday 1/14

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

South Park Branch Family Storytime – 10 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Allegra Westbrooks Branch Family Storytime – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

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

Independence Branch Family Storytime – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

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

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

Technology Tutoring – 2 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

Sugar Creek Branch Story Explorers – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Learning Circle: Functional Fitness – 4 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Artists at Home: Basic Photography Program for Teens – 4:30 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Allegra Westbrooks Clayworks Pottery Workshop – 5 p.m. (Children’s programming)  register

Social (In)Justice Teen Book Club – 6 p.m. (Teen programming) register

Transform Your Resume – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Fragile Democracy: The Struggle Over Race and Voting Rights in North Carolina – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Friday 1/15

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

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

Ted Talk Discussion Group: New Year's Resolutions – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

Teen Book Club: Discussion and Digital Games – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Canva Design Class: The Basics – 3 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Saturday 1/16

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

Let's Get Graphic: A Discussion of the History of Graphic Novels and Comic Books – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

Learning Circle: Let's Get Organized – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

I can Read Black Stories (Facebook Live) – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)  

Sugar Creek Branch Story Explorers – 1 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

South Boulevard Branch Creando con Libros – 2 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn  more

Fundamentals of Chess for Teens – 2 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Bullet Journal Group – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Desplácese hacia abajo para ver la versión en español

In compliance with the latest Mecklenburg County public health directive, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library announced it will adjust services starting January 15, 2021. During this reduced phase, the Library limits services to “grab and go” pickups of holds, mobile printing and returns at all branch locations, while programming continues online.

Library hours are Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The Library is always open online at cmlibrary.org.

Find our complete multi-phased re-opening plan here

Customers can expect the following during the Library’s reduced service schedule:

• Customer holds will be available as “grab and go” at the front entrance of each branch.
  Materials can be reserved here through the online catalog.
• Mobile printing is available online and can be picked up at the front entrance of the branch like holds.
• Customers should contact their branch by phone prior to pickup to schedule a time slot. Find your branch location here.
• Access our online program calendar here
• Staff will complete the check-out of materials for customers prior to placing them at the front entrance.
• Staff will wear face masks/coverings and protective equipment. Masks/coverings are also required for customers.
• All material/book drops remain closed. Materials and books should be returned to the designated receptacles located at branch locations during open hours only. Signs will direct customers to the proper bin.
• Fines and fees are suspended.
• Facilities, restrooms and computers will not be open to the public. 
• Access to staff support online and by phone.​​
  • Chat with Library staff at cmlibrary.org by clicking on the “Ask a Librarian” button at the bottom of the screen.
  • Speak with staff during normal operating hours at 704.416.0101. To contact your branch directly, click here.
• Wi-Fi access is available outside Library facilities 24/7.
• Free mobile hotspots are available for customers to place on hold for checkout for seven (7) days at a time.

All programming and events for children, teens, adults, Outreach and the Job Help Center have moved to online or virtual formats. Find our online programming calendar here.

Note: Materials and books will be quarantined for 24 hours before they are checked in. There is no need for customers to “clean” or disinfect Library materials.

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Conforme a la última directiva de salud pública del condado de Mecklenburg, la Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg anunció que ajustará sus servicios desde el 15 de enero del 2021. Durante esta fase reducida, la biblioteca limitará sus servicios a la recolección de reservas, la impresión móvil y la devolución de materiales en todas las sucursales, mientras la programación continúa en línea.

El horario de la biblioteca es de lunes a jueves de 9 a.m. a 8 p.m. y viernes y sábado de 9 a.m. a 5 p.m. La biblioteca siempre está abierta en línea en cmlibrary.org.

Encuentre nuestro plan completo de reapertura de varias fases aquí

Los clientes pueden esperar lo siguiente durante el horario de servicio reducido de la biblioteca:

• Las reservas para clientes estarán disponibles en la entrada principal de cada sucursal. Los materiales se pueden reservar aquí a través del catálogo en línea.
• La impresión móvil está disponible en línea y se puede recoger en la entrada principal de la sucursal como los otros materiales.
• Los clientes deben comunicarse con su sucursal por teléfono para programar un horario antes de recoger sus materiales. Encuentre la ubicación de su sucursal aquí.
• Acceda a nuestro calendario de programas en línea aquí.
• El personal completará el registro de salida de los materiales para los clientes antes de colocarlos en la entrada principal.
• El personal usará mascarillas/cubrebocas y equipo de protección. Los clientes también necesitan mascarillas/cubrebocas.
• Todos los depósitos de materiales permanecen cerrados. Los materiales y libros deben devolverse a los receptáculos designados ubicados en las sucursales únicamente durante las horas de apertura. Los letreros dirigirán a los clientes al contenedor adecuado.
• Durante esta fase se suspenden multas y tarifas.
• Las instalaciones, los baños y las computadoras no estarán abiertas al público.
• El personal estará disponible en línea y por teléfono para brindarle ayuda.
  • Charle con el personal de la biblioteca en cmlibrary.org haciendo clic en el botón "Ask a Librarian" en la parte inferior de la pantalla.
  • Hable con el personal durante el horario normal de atención llamando al 704.416.0101. Para contactar directamente a su sucursal, haga clic aquí.

Toda la programación y eventos para niños, adolescentes, adultos, el alcance a la comunidad y el centro de ayuda para empleo se han trasladado a formatos en línea o virtuales. Encuentre nuestro calendario de programación en línea aquí

Aviso: Los materiales y libros se pondrán en cuarentena durante 24 horas antes de que se registren. No es necesario que los clientes “limpien” o desinfecten los materiales de la biblioteca.

This blog was written as part of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library's Black Lives Matter program initiative. Learn  more about the program and corresponding events here.

As a Black woman, Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris embodies so much that is familiar to me and in which I take great pride. To begin, she is a graduate of Howard University – “The Mecca” of HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) as it is known in the Black community. It was there as an undergraduate that she pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA), the nation’s first historically Black sorority, also founded on Howard’s campus. Upon graduation, she went on to earn her law degree to become an accomplished attorney with many notable achievements including serving as Attorney General of California and a US Senator.

Kamala Harris has been the first to do many things, and that list of firsts will get notably longer when she takes office as Vice President of the United States next week. During the pursuit of her Senate seat, her candidacy for President and later as running mate to President-elect Joe Biden, Kamala Harris has consistently embraced her blackness. She proudly wears sweatshirts from her alma mater and speaks fondly of her days as a student. She has expanded the familiarity with and showcased the reach of the Divine Nine (historically Black sororities and fraternities) in a way never seen before, and regularly wears her AKA pearls. I too am a graduate of Howard, was initiated into the Alpha Chapter of AKA, and a licensed attorney – never before has a man or woman in a position of such power and success had a background that so closely mirrored my own. 

When I met Kamala at a fundraiser in Charlotte in the fall of 2019, we briefly connected over our shared experiences as Howard graduates and sorority sisters. The feeling of those shared bonds was unparalleled. Many women like me could relate when then Senator Harris was repeatedly interrupted by Vice President Pence during the Vice Presidential Debate last October. The moderator didn’t play an active role in ensuring that Senator Harris was given equal time to speak or respond to questions. In that moment, Kamala Harris modeled how to gracefully, yet firmly, serve as your own advocate and command the attention and respect that you deserve - “I’m speaking.” With her words and actions Kamala encouraged us to be confident that what we have to say deserves to be heard and reminded us that we have worked to be at the proverbial table. Therefore, we cannot let our opportunity to contribute to these important conversations pass us by. She modeled how we as women must use our voices to be our own advocate. As a young executive who has been talked over and had my comments fall on deaf ears only to be restated with highest regard when echoed by someone else, I admire and appreciate Harris’ calm and collected manner at all times. She has inspired me to let my voice be heard with confidence and boldness. We all must start somewhere. While our voices may initially shake our confidence will grow each time we speak.  

On Saturday, November 7, 2020 during her speech at the Biden-Harris victory celebration, Vice President-Elect Harris stated, “Every little girl that’s watching tonight sees that this is a country of possibilities.” As the mother of a young Black girl, I am encouraged by the possibilities that my daughter will grow up having as norms. It is one thing to be told you can be anything when you grow up —however, it is all that more powerful to have an example of someone who looks like you having already archived your heart’s desire. Many others came before Kamala Harris, each doing a part in overcoming obstacles that helped pave her way. While she is the first Black woman to reach the White House as Vice President, she has made it clear that she does not intend to be the last. 

As she continues to blaze trails, Kamala Harris has remained true to herself and used her voice to be an advocate for many while encouraging and bringing others along with her as she reaches higher heights.  While I’m not a little girl anymore, I am not ashamed to admit that I too am encouraged by Kamala’s achievements, the advancements that our country continues to make and the possibilities that lie ahead.

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This blog was written by Tamra Berry. Tamra is a Human Resources Executive in financial services. She and her husband, Akadius, reside in Charlotte’s Historic West End with their daughter, Zora, and beloved dog, Jackson. 

Mark your calendar for World Read Aloud Day on February 3, 2021!  

World Read Aloud Day, founded by LitWorld in 2010, celebrates the joy and power of reading aloud to others. According to Melbourne University, studies show that reading aloud to children puts them almost a year ahead of children who do not receive daily read alouds, regardless of income, educational level or background (LitWorld, 2020).  

You’re Invited! 
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has BIG plans to share our joy and power of reading aloud with our community on World Read Aloud Day! Library staff will share their favorite stories aloud with you online all day long. Visit the ImaginOn Facebook page to join in the fun beginning at 9:30 a.m. with a special storytime, and then a captivating story every hour finishing at 6:30 p.m. We invite children and families, at home and in classrooms everywhere, to join us!  

Join the Celebration 
The Library offers immense opportunities for you share the joy of reading aloud with others. Browse our catalog online or call any of our 20 branch locations to reserve books for the World Read Aloud Day.  Holds placed on print materials will be ready for you to pickup at the branch on the day and time you schedule them! Our electronic books are always available for you with your Library card or ONE Access ID number online. Parents and caregivers can also learn to elevate their shared reading experience at home by participating in an Active Reading Training (programs are offered weekly).  

Share the books you are reading aloud this World Read Aloud Day by tagging @cmlibrary across social media platforms - we're on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. We commemorate the power of reading daily at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and look forward to this festive and outstanding day! 

Click to find World Read Aloud Day Day on the Library events calendar

 Want to learn about the practice of Active Reading? Click here! 

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This blog was written by Elyse Berrier, active reading coordinator at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.  

Magazines are moving! Digital magazines will be moving from the RBdigital app to the Libby app on Thursday, January 28, 2021! Now you will be able to borrow magazines, e-books, and e-audiobooks, all in one app! 

OverDrive magazines will include the same great content that was once available in RBdigital magazines. Magazines that you have enjoyed such as The Food Network, Rolling Stone, US Weekly, Parents, Sports Illustrated and more will be available on Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s OverDrive site and the Libby app. However, the best experience will be using the Libby app. When possible, three years of back issues will be made available. When this transfer is complete, magazines will no longer be available through the RBdigital platform and app.

OverDrive magazines will be checked out for 21 days and will automatically return. Magazine titles are always available and will not count against your check out limits. As with e-books and e-audiobooks, you will have the option to renew a magazine within 3 days of the end of the lending period. However, since magazines are unlimited, you could also borrow that magazine again at any time. 

OverDrive cannot automatically check out new issues of a magazine for you, but here’s a pro tip to use with your favorite titles: use the tagging feature in the Libby app to save magazines that you frequently check out. You can use this tag to check for new issues.

How do you find magazines on OverDrive? Good question! Through the Libby app, click “Explore” and then “Subjects.” Expand the “Preferences” menu and change Format to “Magazines”.  Click “Apply Preferences” to view the subjects or genres of the magazines.  On the OverDrive page, click “Subjects” and then “Magazines”. Browse magazines by their subject of genre or click the link to see all magazines.  Coming Soon: We are creating a collection page for magazines. “Magazines” will be available above the ribbon on the OverDrive landing page. Use the filters to find magazines on subjects such as entertainment, news, celebrity, health, etc.  

Why are RBdigital magazines moving to OverDrive?

OverDrive acquired RBmedia’s library business, RBdigital. Read more about the acquisition here. The RBdigital site is being retired and all content is being moved to OverDrive. Audiobooks were moved in October and now it is time for magazines. When this transfer is complete, magazines will no longer be available through the RBdigital platform and app.

When will magazines be transferred from RBdigital to OverDrive?

RBdigital magazines will be transferred to OverDrive on Thursday, January 28, 2021. The process will take approximately 24 hours. During this time, RBdigital magazines will not be available.

What happens if I have a magazine(s) and back issues currently checked out on RBdigital?

Current magazines checked out in RBdigital will not transfer to your OverDrive loans. You can access your previously borrowed magazines from RBdigital by either downloading the free ZINIO app or going to zinio.com. From the ZINIO app or website, customers can register for a new ZINIO account using the same email address you used to access RBdigital. Once registered, previously borrowed ZINIO magazine loans will be available in your account.

Another option is to print articles, text, or recipes you would like to save before the magazines move to OverDrive.  Some magazines allow printing from the RBdigital reader in your browser. If the magazine you have checked out allows printing, you can print specific articles, text, or recipes that you would like to save.

• Sign in to your RBdigital account.
• Open a magazine from your checked-out shelf.  If the magazine allows printing, you will see a printer icon on the left side of the reader.
• Navigate to the article, text, or recipe you would like to print.
• Click the printer icon.

If you’re new to OverDrive, visit our OverDrive resource page, check out this getting started guide, or watch these videos to learn more. Click here to find help with using the Libby app.

Access OverDrive for free with your library card. Don’t have one? Sign up here!

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

This blog was written as part of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library's Black Lives Matter program initiative. Learn  more about the program and corresponding events here.

A short time ago, I was speaking with a friend about my feelings about my country. A little about politics, a lot about disappointment. I remember expressing my concern about all the anger, the hatred and fear that seemed to be creeping its way into my nation, my job, the lives of my friends, and even into my family. And I said to him – "I was lucky because my parents took the time to educate me about racism."

I had never thought that would be something I would reflect on – how fortunate I was that my family did not "shy away" from sensitive topics. That their patriotism and love for their country didn't make them blind to the faults and failures in its past and even in its present. What stood out to me as a child, and now as an adult and a librarian, was how they relied on literature to help me understand this very real issue.

I remember going to the library and coming home with books such as the Addy series by American Girl, Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor, or A Picture of Freedom by Pat McKissack. These stories taught me so many things. They taught me the history of African Americans in my country and the cruelty and hardships that they have endured. It taught me the unfortunate truth that your skin color made a difference – and sometimes still does. But also, and I think more importantly, it taught me that African Americans are human.

Perhaps that sounds silly, but it's very easy to make generalizations and blanket statements about something you don't understand. It's very easy to dehumanize a culture and therefore disregard what happens to its people because you've never had to interact with it. But when you are faced with understanding, sharing feelings of fear, sorrow, and hope, you face common ground. You are no longer remarking about some distant and unfamiliar minority. These are your neighbors, coworkers, friends and your family. These are people you will fight and die for.

I think literature written by African American authors is pivotal to growing our understanding as a community. There are some events we will never experience in our lives that we can experience amid the pages of a book. We will never be exposed to some struggles in our lives that we can be exposed to through literature.

While I grew up in a very diverse community, that is not the case for everyone. People of many different ethnic origins were a part of my life since birth and I am blessed because of this. I am blessed because I can't imagine growing up in a world where everyone I know looks "like me." I am blessed because I can acknowledge the past. And I am blessed because I can hope for the future.

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This blog post was written by Hannah P. Simmons, a senior library assistant at North County Regional Library.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is in the process of developing a Facilities Master Plan that will guide the Library over the next 10-15 years. Part of that process is getting feedback from the community regarding what is most important to you regarding library locations.  We’d love to get your thoughts and opinions on topics such as:

• Does your neighborhood need a  library?
• Is your current library branch serving your needs?
• What is the biggest gap in how your library branch is serving your needs?
• How do the library buildings themselves support your community needs?
• What opportunities exist for the Library to better serve Mecklenburg county residents?

The survey is now closed. Thank you to all who participated. 

Join us and share your thoughts!

During each session, we need your feedback on where you think new libraries may be needed and where library buildings and services need to be expanded or improved. We will also share examples and best practices from across the country as to what strong 21^st century libraries look like.

Sessions are 60-90 minutes in length and will held via Zoom. The information shared will be very visual so it will be best to have access to a computer, but the audio portion of the meeting may be accessed using a computer or a phone.

Registrations are required, so be sure to sign up to participate in a session so that we are able to provide you with the sign-in information. Sign-ups will be done using the links below.  Sessions are limited to 80 participants.  These sessions will be offered in English and Spanish.  The sign up link below will offer you this option.

Five sessions available - registration required 

• February 10, 2021 9:30-11 a.m. Click here to register 
  
   
• February 10, 2021 6:30-8 p.m. Click here to register 
  
   
• February 11, 2021 Noon-1:30 p.m. Click here to register 
  
   
• February 11, 2021 4:30-6 p.m. Click here to register 

Join us for a session. The time should prove to be interesting, enlightening and productive in creating a vibrant Library system for our future.

Celebrate Black History Month this February with Charlotte Mecklenburg Library! Join us and explore themed online programs for all ages.  Charlotte Mecklenburg Library's Black Lives Matter programming initiative has a variety of discussions, storytimes, book groups, speaker series and more to explore the and celebrate Black History this month and every month. Take a look below to see highlighted selection of our upcoming programs and check our online calendar for registration information and a full listing of events. Download a PDF of our calendar here.

Get Inspired

Join us for engaging speakers on a variety of topics

Meet Black Creatives, Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.

Connect with Black Creatives in our community every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. during Black History Month. We will have different Black Creatives talk about their unique businesses and services. Be inspired and learn how you can live out your creative dreams.

Author Talk: Derrick Barners and Gordon C. James, Thursday, February 11 at 6 p.m. (Facebook Live & YouTube Live)

Join us for A Conversation with Derrick Barnes and Gordon C. James, author and illustrator of The New York Times bestseller, I Am Every Good Thing. We will be streaming on Facebook and YouTube.

I can Celebrate National African American Read-In, Thursday, February 18 at 6 p.m.

The National African American Read-In is the nation’s first and oldest event dedicated to diversity in literature. Join us as we celebrate this event with a VIRTUAL READ-IN featuring local authors and students from Westerly Hills Academy.

Meet the Podcasters, Saturday, February 20 at 3 p.m.

Meet the Podcasters: There're Back! The Black Guy Who Tips podcasters, Rod and Karen will join us to discuss current events, books and upcoming projects. We will wrap up with some Black History Trivia.

Learn Something New

Explore Black history, culture, and more

Story Explorers: Rocket Like Mae Jemison, Saturday, February 8 at 3 p.m.

Kids ages 5 to 11 are invited to this special Black History Month literacy program celebrating Mae Jemison! Together, we'll learn about Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to enter space, though interactive activities including math, science, games and more.

Harlem Unbound (Call of Cthulhu 7E), Wednesday, February 10 at 5:30 p.m.

Participate in a Call of Cthulhu roleplaying game set in early 20^th century Harlem, NY. The players will put themselves in the shoes of Harlemites navigating day-to-day issues including racism, community, politics, nightlife and Cosmic Horror.

Esports and Gaming in the Black Community, Saturday, February 20 at 12 p.m.

Meet the founders, Dr. Lawson Williams and Professor Cash, of the 1^st HBCU Esports and Gaming program at Johnson C. Smith University. Plus, meet local entrepreneur Rick Suarez, who took his love of sports to create Stay Plugged IN, a virtual gaming company.

The Impact of Gentrification on the Black Community, Saturday, February 20 at 1 p.m.

The ongoing housing crisis and the displacement of residents due to neighborhoods' changing demographics continue to be of great concern in Black communities. This program will address the impact of gentrification happening in historically Black neighborhoods in the Charlotte area.

Parent Lunch & Learn: i can read Black stories, Wednesday, February 24 at 12 p.m.

Parents and Caregivers will learn about the importance of children's literature that center characters who are Black or people of color, as well as tips for selecting books to foster conversations about equity and inclusivity.

Join a Discussion

Discuss books, films, and more with community members and library staff

Graphic Novel Book Club, Wednesday, February 3 at 6 p.m.

What We'll Be Discussing:  Black History In Its Own Words, by Ronald Wimberly.

Ted Talk Discussion Group, multiple dates

What We'll Be Discussing:

• 2/5 at 11 a.m.: Black Lives Matter and Say Her Name
• 2/19 at 11 a.m.: Systemic Racism

Steele Creek Readers Book Club, Tuesday, February 9 10:30 a.m.

What We'll Be Discussing:  A Kind of Freedom by Margaret Wikerson Sexton

Black Women + Democracy, a virtual film and discussion series, multiple dates

What We’ll Be Discussing:

• 2/14 at 2 p.m.: Knock Down the House Film screening starts at 2 p.m., discussion at 3:15 p.m.
• 2/15 at 6 p.m.: Chisholm ‘72 - Unbought & Unbossed, Watch the film on your own then join for the discussion at 6pm.

Social Justice Book Club, Thursday, February 18 at 6:30 p.m. or Saturday, February 20 at 2 p.m.

What We'll Be Discussing:  Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi or Stamped by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi (your choice)

Teen Book Talk, Monday February 22 at 5:30 p.m.

What We'll Be Discussing:  This is My America by Kim Johnson

Let's Get Graphic! Saturday, February 27 at 10 a.m.

What We'll Be Discussing:  People of Color and Minority Representation in Graphic Novels & Comic Books

6pm Film Discussion: Black Men in White Coats  Saturday, February 27th at 6 p.m. 

What We’ll Be Discussing: This documentary that dissects the systemic barriers preventing black men from becoming medical doctors and the consequences on society at large. Upon registration, a link to the film will be shared. 

Attend a Storytime

Enjoy stories, songs, and movement activities that support empathy and understanding of issues affecting Black children and families.

I can read Black stories storytime, every Saturday at 11 a.m.

This storytime features books that center characters who are Black or people of color, offers strategies to foster conversations about equity and inclusivity, and encourages early literacy skill development and a love of books and reading in your child.

SouthPark Branch Family Storytime, Thursday, February 18 at 10 a.m.

This program will be provided by SouthPark library staff.

Your whole family can enjoy stories, songs, and movement activities that support early literacy skill development and help foster a love of books and reading in your child. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate. This week's stories will center around Black History Month and Black Lives Matter.

Research History

The Library offers a variety of digital resources to aid in performing historical and biographical research.

HistoryMakers Digital Archive

The HistoryMakers is an oral history collection highlighting the accomplishments of individual African Americans and African-American-led groups and movements.  It is unique among collections of African American heritage because of its large and varied scope, with interviewees from across the United States, from a variety of fields, and with memories stretching from the 1890s to the present.

Access

Daily Life Through History

Daily Life Through History is a collection of e-books about life during different periods of history. These historical period includes Ancient Rome, Greece and Egypt, the middle ages, the Renaissance, colonial times, the Civil War and World War I and II. In additions topics such as the role of women and children, food and clothing, and work conditions are covered, as well as a time line of major events.

Access