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Kanopy Kids
Summary

Stream a selection of educational and enriching videos on Kanopy Kids with developmentally appropriate, age-based ratings from Common Sense Media, as well as additional parental controls. Kanopy Kids categories include TV Series, Learning Languages, Animated Storybooks, Anime Favorites, Classic Films and Movies for the Whole Family. Kanopy Kids has unlimited views.

Details

Getting started:

If you are a first time user, create a Kanopy account by clicking the "Sign Up" button. When creating your account, enter your name, email address and select a password.  An email will be sent to you with a verification link. Click on the link sent in the email and it will ask you to select your Library (Charlotte Mecklenburg Library) and enter your Charlotte Mecklenburg Library barcode and PIN number.

Access the Collection

  • Click the "Access Now" button
  • Enter through the main Kanopy site, and click on "Kids" in the upper right corner. Click again to toggle out of Kids Mode and return to the main Kanopy collection.
  • Download the Kanopy app for Android, Apple, and Amazon Fire tablets.
  • Kanopy can be streamed on your desktop computer, tablets, smartphones, and TV apps. 
  • Click here for supported devices.

Borrowing

Kanopy Kids has unlimited plays!  New videos are added each month.

Parents can set a four-digit pin to prevent kids from viewing a title that has not been approved for viewing in Kanopy Kids.  Learn more here.

Need Help?

Click on the "Support" link in the footer of the Kanopy site. Help articles on creating accounts, using the website, mobile and tv apps, and more are available.

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OverDrive/Libby
Summary

OverDrive/Libby is a collection of e-books, digital audiobooks, and digital magazines offered by the library. E-books, audiobooks, and magazines can be downloaded to your computer, tablet, (including Kindle), or mobile device for offline reading or listening.

Details

OverDrive/Libby is a collection of e-books, digital audiobooks, and digital magazines offered by the library.  E-books, audiobooks, and magazines can be downloaded to your computer, tablet, (including Kindle), or mobile device for offline reading or listening.  OverDrive/Libby e-book titles can be read online using OverDrive Read and audiobooks can be listened to online using OverDrive Listen.  Mobile and tablet customers, download Libby app for iOS and Android.

Getting Started

All you need to get started is your Charlotte Mecklenburg Library card number or ONE Access account number.  

 

Access the Collection

  • Click the "Access Now" button

  • Libby is OverDrive's app, designed to get you reading as quickly and seamlessly as possible.  Learn more about Libby and find help here.
  • Kindle Fire users will download the Libby app in the Amazon app store.

Borrowing

  • You can have a maximum of 20 items checked to you out at any given time.  For example, if three items are returned, you can check out three more to get back to 20.  This limit is not effected by the day of the month.  Digital magazine checkouts do not count towards your limit.

  • The default lending period for ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines is two weeks.  The settings menu will let you customize your lending period to 7 days, 14 days, or 21 days.  

If items are check out, place a hold.  Customers are allowed 10 holds on their account at any given time.  You will be contacted by email when your item is available to check out.  You'll see an option to renew a title on your Loans page three days before it expires, as long as there are no holds.  If the title has holds, you can request it again.

Return items when you are finished or they will be automatically returned when they are due so you never accumulate late fees!  

Tips

  • Using OverDrive/Libby on your Kindle e-Reader?  This tutorial will get you started.

Need additional help with the OverDrive/Libby site?  Check here for troubleshooting or contact your local Library.

 

OverDrive/Libby es una colección de libros electrónicos y audiolibros digitales disponible a través de la biblioteca. Los libros electrónicos y los audiolibros se pueden descargar a su computadora, tableta (incluyendo a las tabletas Kindle) o dispositivo móvil. Los títulos de libros electrónicos de OverDrive/Libby se pueden leer en línea usando OverDrive Read y los audiolibros se pueden escuchar en línea usando OverDrive Listen. ¡La transmisión de video también está disponible! Los usuarios de móviles y tabletas pueden descargar la aplicación Libby para iOS y Android. 

Todo lo que necesita para comenzar es su número de tarjeta de la Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg o su número de cuenta ONE Access. Puede retirar hasta 20 artículos con un período máximo de préstamo de 21 días. También puede pedir los artículos que actualmente estén prestados. Devuelva los artículos cuando haya terminado o se devolverán automáticamente cuando se venzan. ¡Nunca se acumularán cargos por artículos atrasados! ¿Necesita ayuda con OverDrive/Libby? Consulte aquí para obtener ayuda o comuníquese con su biblioteca local. 

¿Tiene un dispositivo móvil? Actualmente hay dos maneras para usar OverDrive.  

  • Libby es una nueva aplicación desarrollada por OverDrive, diseñada para que su experiencia de lectura sea más rápida y fácil. Obtenga más información sobre Libby y encuentre ayuda aquí. 

 

 
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Find Imagination, Community and more with a Library Card

August 28, 2024

This blog was written by Darrell Anderson, marketing and communications specialist for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.


September is Library Card Sign-up Month, and it's the perfect time to get a card of your own. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers millions of resources including books, music, movies, creative materials, digital resources and programs (in-person and online) – all for FREE with a Library card. Check out just a small sampling of all the Library has to offer:
 

A Library card helps your child find Imagination


A Library card is more than just a card; it's a gateway to endless opportunities for your child's growth and development. With a Library card, your child gains access to a world where every book offers a new adventure, a fresh perspective, and a chance to explore diverse subjects. The Library provides an incredible range of resources beyond just books, including digital tools like Tutor.com, which offers online tutoring and homework assistance tailored specifically for school-age children and teens. This can be a game-changer in helping them understand challenging subjects and succeed academically. 


Additionally, our Student Success Centers and school-age programming offer in-person support, providing a nurturing environment where children can receive guidance and assistance on their educational journey. Although you don’t need a Library card to access these in-person resources, having one can enhance the experience and provide even more opportunities for learning and exploration. So why wait? Get a library card today and open the door to a universe of knowledge and imagination for your child. Let their creativity flourish and their curiosity lead the way!
 

EXPLORE CHILDREN'S & TEEN PROGRAMMING
 

FREE Digital Resources


The Library is a tremendous one-stop shop, not just for books but for digital resources and so much more. Maybe you want to perfect an existing skill - or learn a new one - with Universal Class or learn a new language with Transparent Language. Film buffs can benefit from a Library card, too. With the Kanopy, Libby and hoopla and apps – again, available for FREE with a Library card – you can stream or download new and classic films and documentaries. Whether it’s resources for that work project or the latest trending BookTok read, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has exactly what you’re looking for.

 

ACCESS RESOURCES
 

Find Comunidad (Community) 


For those that speak English as a second language, the Library has a rich collection of materials and resources in several world languages including Arabic, Chinese (traditional and simplified), French, German, American Sign Language and more. By far, the Library offers more Spanish materials than others (nearly 22,000 print books alone) to match the community’s needs. OverDrive/Libby, one of the Library’s digital platforms, has a Spanish collection that is frequently updated with new titles. Additionally, we have several bilingual staff members across the system as well as digital translation tablets available at all Library locations for more individualized assistance. Our friendly staff is here to make you feel comfortable and welcomed into our branches no matter what language you speak.

 

EXPLORE "COMUNIDAD"

EXPLORE OUR WORLD LANGUAGE COLLECTION

Value Like No Other


Are you curious about how much money a Library card can really save you? $100? $300? Even up to $1,000! Subscription services can be pricey and tend to add up over the course of a calendar year, not to mention how much you might spend on books, magazines and music. There’s no need to pay for subscription services ever again. See how much you can save with the Library by using the Library Value Calculator. Input the number of books, magazines, DVDs, music and resources you’ve purchased or used in a year, and you’ll be amazed at how much you could save by switching to the Library. The numbers don’t lie; a Library card is a great value!
 

Get a Card Today


Signing up for a Library card is easy and anybody can do it. Sign up for a Library card online or stop by your local branch and download the CMLibrary mobile app on your tablet or smartphone. Use the app to place holds, access resources and much more.


GET A CARD HERE


So, now that you know everything you can do with your Library card, what are you waiting for? Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and get your Library card today!

New to Charlotte? We’re Glad You’re Here

September 3, 2024

This blog was written by Lonna Vines, branch manager at the Myers Park branch of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Welcome to Charlotte! Whether new to the city or new to the United States, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is thrilled to welcome newcomers to the Queen City.

 

Charlotte proudly holds the Certified Welcoming designation from Welcoming America, a recognition granted to cities and counties that demonstrate a strong commitment to immigrant inclusion. As of 2024, Charlotte is one of only 24 cities and counties in the United States to receive this honor. The Library recognizes the crucial role that new residents play in enriching the city’s neighborhoods and encourages them to get involved and stay connected with the community.

 

One of the Library’s key initiatives is WelcomeCLT, which aims to assist new residents—particularly international newcomers—with information and resources to help them navigate their new environment. The WelcomeCLT website offers a variety of resources, including useful links, videos, and information. For additional support, the WelcomeCLT Libguide provides further resources. Each library branch features a WelcomeCLT kiosk, stocked with flyers and brochures about local resources. Additionally, library branches offer materials in 16 different languages.


Welcoming Week: September 13 – 22, 2024

To celebrate Welcoming Week, a period dedicated to fostering community connections and celebrating inclusivity, the Library will host several events. For more details or to register for these events, visit the Library Events page:

Arabic Alphabet Learning Circle
First Class - Thursday, September 5 at 6:15pm
University City Regional 
For Teens, Adults
 

Uncover the beauty of this script and gain a new perspective on the world of language. Over the course of five classes held every other week, participants aged 12 and up will delve into the fundamentals of the Arabic script, unraveling the mysteries of the Arabic Alphabet. Dive into the basics of the Arabic alphabet, exploring the unique shapes and sounds of each letter.

REGISTER

Tacos to Tamales: Exploring Latin American Culinary Traditions
Pineville Branch
For Adults
Friday, September 13 at 11 am
 

Join us as author Sandra A. Gutierrez discusses Latin American cuisine.  Sandra A. Gutierrez is a journalist, food writer and historian, professional cooking instructor, and author of several cookbooks.  She will present on her writing process as well as provide insight into culture awareness reflected in the foods she shares in her books.  Food will also be available from a local vendor to celebrate Latin American cuisine and a selection of Sandra’s books will be available for purchase at the event.

REGISTER

From Immigrant to Icon: Cultural Integration and the Power of Resilience
Saturday, September 14 at 3 pm
Matthews Branch
For Adults


Please join Aleksandra Degernes, President of the Eastern European Business Network CLT (EEBN), for her inspirational story of her immigrant experience and professional journey in the U.S. Aleksandra’s journey from newcomer to community leader showcases her determination and passion for helping others achieve their American dream. Today, the Eastern European Business Network is a hub of new connections, innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired and learn how you can be part of this dynamic community!

REGISTER

La Loteria
Tuesday, September 17 at 6 pm
South Boulevard Branch
For Preteens and Teens


Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and Welcoming Week! Grab your friends and play the traditional Mexican game, Lotería. This game of chance is similar to bingo but uses images instead of numbers or letters. Please note that all players are expected to follow the Gaming Etiquette Guidelines.

REGISTER

International Tea Tasting
Wednesday, September 18 at 5 pm
Allegra Westbrooks Regional
For School Ages, Preteens, Teens and Adults


Celebrate Welcoming Week through tasting various teas and beverages from around the world. Light snacks will be served. Participants will also explore the library’s online resources to connect to their family’s cultural heritage. This interactive event is suitable for ages 5 and up.

REGISTER

Immigration 101
Thursday, September 19 at 5:30 pm
Independence Regional 
For Adults


Join Immigration Attorney, Laura Waits from Eagan Immigration, for an informative session on Immigration 101. This event will provide valuable insight into the naturalization process, immigrant rights, and how to navigate common legal challenges faced by immigrants. This same event will be held at multiple locations, please check the library events page for additional information.

REGISTER

 

WelcomeCLT Beanstack Challenge: September 1-30, 2024

During September, the Library is hosting the WelcomeCLT Beanstack Challenge. Participants can earn a WelcomeCLT magnet and book by completing three activities from one of the following tracks: New Americans, New to Charlotte or Welcomers. Participants who complete three activities will be eligible for prizes, available at any Charlotte Mecklenburg Library location while supplies last.

Find "Comunidad" at the Library during Hispanic Heritage Month

September 11, 2024

Este blog fue escrito por Darrell Anderson, especialista en marketing y comunicaciones de la biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg.


¿Sabía que los hispanoamericanos conforman el grupo de inmigrantes más grande de los EE. UU.? Tan solo en el condado de Mecklenburg, se calcula que un 15 % de la población, es decir, 169,922 residentes, se identifican como hispanos.


Desde el 15 de septiembre hasta el 15 de octubre, las comunidades de todos los Estados Unidos honran sus historias, culturas y contribuciones ricas de hispanos y latinoamericanos durante el Mes de la Herencia Hispana (Hispanic Heritage Month). Este año, la biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg adhiere a este momento especial con una serie de eventos y programas participativos que demuestran la diversidad y la vivacidad de nuestra comunidad hispana.

 

Un mes para celebrar la herencia y la cultura


La biblioteca es mucho más que un lugar para pedir libros prestados: es un centro de conexión comunitaria y enriquecimiento cultural. Invitamos a la comunidad hispana a “encontrar la comunidad” (o “find community”), y les recordamos que todos son bienvenidos en nuestro lugar. La biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg asume el compromiso de servir a todos los miembros de la comunidad, lo que se pone de manifiesto con su personal bilingüe y que habla español. Conozca a algunos de ellos y compruebe por qué la comunidad es tan importante en su trabajo.

Andrew Meyer
Asistente de Biblioteca, Biblioteca Plaza Midwood:


“Para mí, la comunidad significa ‘familia’. En la comunidad, tenemos un sentido de pertenencia y no nos sentimos juzgados por quiénes somos o por lo que hemos hecho en el pasado. Es una oportunidad de crecer y alcanzar todo nuestro potencial”.

Patty Lyons
Bibliotecaria, Biblioteca Mint Hill:


“Para mí, la comunidad es un grupo de personas que viven en el mismo vecindario o que se rodean de quienes les dan un sentido de pertenencia. Aunque vivo en Cornelius, trabajo en la biblioteca de Mint Hill y creo que formo parte de la comunidad a la que sirvo”.

Yuleyska Barron
Gerente de Servicios de Acceso, Biblioteca Regional Independence:


“Para mí, la comunidad implica un entorno en el que pueda crecer, adaptarme y compartir mi vida y mis intereses. Creo que la biblioteca es una parte importante de este proyecto porque somos la fuente de confianza para ofrecer todo tipo de recursos que pueden ayudar a las personas a mejorar su vida”.

Cómo conectarse


Si es un residente que habla español o conoce a alguien que podría beneficiarse de los servicios de biblioteca bilingüe, aquí se detalla cómo puede aprovechar al máximo lo que la CML tiene para ofrecer:


• Visite la biblioteca: Visite cualquier sede de la biblioteca y pregunte por los miembros del personal que lo pueden ayudar en español. Contamos con varios miembros bilingües en todo el sistema, así como tabletas con traducción digital disponibles en todos los centros bibliotecarios para ofrecer una asistencia más personalizada. Nuestro amable personal está aquí para hacerlo sentir cómodo y bienvenido en nuestras sedes, sin importar qué idioma hable. Encuentre una sede cerca de usted aquí.


• Asista a programas bilingües: Esté atento al calendario de eventos de la biblioteca para descubrir narraciones de cuentos, talleres y eventos culturales. Estos programas están diseñados para ser inclusivos e interesantes para las familias que hablan español. Consulte nuestros programas aquí.


• Utilice los recursos en línea: Esta biblioteca ofrece muchos más materiales en español que otras (casi 22,000 libros impresos solamente) para satisfacer las necesidades de la comunidad. Explore los recursos digitales de la biblioteca, que incluyen libros, libros electrónicos y otros materiales en español. OverDrive/Libby, una de las plataformas digitales de la biblioteca, tiene una colección en español que se actualiza con frecuencia con nuevos títulos. Puede acceder aquí.


Mientras nos reunimos a celebrar el Mes de la Herencia Hispana, honremos el pasado, abracemos el presente y miremos hacia un futuro enriquecido con las diversas voces e historias de nuestra comunidad. ¡Acompáñenos en la biblioteca y sea parte de esta celebración trascendental!

 

 

This blog was written by Darrell Anderson, marketing and communications specialist for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.


Did you know that Hispanic Americans make up the largest immigrant group in the United States? In Mecklenburg County alone, an estimated 15% of the population, or 169,922 residents, identify as Hispanic according to recent census data.


From September 15 to October 15, communities across the United States honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans during Hispanic Heritage Month. This year, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is embracing this special time with a series of engaging events and programs that showcase the diversity and vibrancy of our Hispanic community.


A Month-Long Celebration of Heritage and Culture


The Library is more than just a place to borrow books; it's a hub for community connection and cultural enrichment. We invite the Hispanic community to “encontrar comunidad” or “find community” and know that all are welcome within our doors. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has a commitment to serving all community members which is exemplified through its bilingual and Spanish-speaking staff. Meet just a few of them and learn why community is so important to their work:

Andrew Meyer
Library Assistant, Plaza Midwood Library:


“For me, community means ‘family.’ Community is a place where you have a sense of belonging and don't feel judged for who you are or the things you have done in the past. It is an opportunity to grow and reach your full potential.”

Patty Lyons
Librarian, Mint Hill Library:


“For me, community is a group of people who live in the same neighborhood or who are surrounded by those who give them a sense of belonging. Although I live in Cornelius, I work at the Mint Hill Library and feel like I am actually part of the same community I serve.”

Yuleyska Barron
Access Services Manager, Independence Regional Library:


‘For me, community means an environment where I can grow, adapt, and share my life and interests. I think the Library is an important part of this project because we are the go-to source for providing all of these resources that can help our clients improve their lives.”

How to Connect


If you’re a Spanish-speaking resident or know someone who would benefit from bilingual library services, here’s how you can make the most of what CML offers:

 

Visit the Library: Drop by any Library branch and inquire about staff members who can assist you in Spanish. We have several bilingual staff members across the system as well as digital translation tablets available at all Library locations for more individualized assistance. Our friendly staff is here to make you feel comfortable and welcomed into our branches no matter what language you speak. Find a branch near you HERE.

 

Attend Bilingual Programs: Keep an eye on the Library’s events calendar for upcoming bilingual storytimes, workshops, and cultural events. These programs are designed to be inclusive and engaging for Spanish-speaking families. View our programs HERE.

 

Utilize Online Resources: By far, the Library offers more Spanish materials than others (nearly 22,000 print books alone) to match the community’s needs. Explore the library’s digital resources, which include Spanish-language books, e-books, and other materials. OverDrive/Libby, one of the Library’s digital platforms, has a Spanish collection that is frequently updated with new titles.
 

As we come together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s honor the past, embrace the present, and look forward to a future enriched by the diverse voices and stories of our community. Join us at the Library and be a part of this meaningful celebration!

2024 Summer Bookmark Contest for Children

September 13, 2024

This summer, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library hosted our first ever bookmark contest for children in grades K-5 to encourage reading, learning, and exploring while showcasing the creativity of our community. And you better believe it—y’all are creative! 


We received over 800 bookmark entries—including ones from every library location as well as entries from outside of Mecklenburg County and even outside of North Carolina! Themes included everything from love of books and reading (which made our hearts so happy!) to nature, animals, positive messages, and beautiful patterns. We also got to see unique materials used to complete the challenge, with everything from watercolors, stickers, beads, and even playdough used in some of the designs!


The depth and breadth of talent was so much that we changed course when it came to our winners. While we originally planned to select just 2 winners (one for grades K-2 and one for grades 3-5), it quickly became clear we needed a winner for each grade level. Our amazing summer Volunteens helped us narrow down selections and then voted on the winners at the end of the contest. The teen input was so valuable, and we appreciate their time and dedication to this project!


We are thrilled to announce the winners below, and copies of each bookmark will be available to pick up in every library location while supplies last. A huge thank you to our community for your response to this contest, and CONGRATULATIONS to our winners.