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Join the hottest "club" in town by getting a Library card this September
August 29, 2025
This blog was written by Darrell Anderson, marketing and communications specialist for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.
September is Library Card Sign-up Month! It’s the perfect time to get a Charlotte Mecklenburg Library card—and the best part? It’s totally FREE!
Your library card gives you and your family access to millions of amazing resources:
• Books, audiobooks, movies, music & more
• Digital tools, streaming, eBooks, and learning resources
• Creative kits and hands-on materials
• Fun programs and events—both online and in-person
• Spaces to study, connect, and create
Don’t just take our word for it. Keep reading for just a taste of what a library card at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has to offer!
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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 Homework Help 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!
The hottest "club" in the Queen City is a book club
Millennials — have you been looking for a book club to join, or maybe even interested in starting your own? What about programing that speaks to all your interests, from career help to gaming? Look no further than the Library! Who needs bottle service when you’ve got complimentary book service? Slide through, check us out, and be back home by 8:30 with a tote full of stories (and zero regrets). No cover. Zero fines. Free parking. Say less! Check out one of our robust book club kits to help you get started and pop in for a program while you're here.
CMLibrary. Your new favorite spot—minus the hangover.
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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.
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.
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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!
ONE Access™
Comunidad
ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center
300 East Seventh Street,
Charlotte, NC 28202
United States
Contact us:
(704) 416-4600 Hours:
Sunday 1:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am-5:00 pm
After Hours Book Drop | Available
What We Offer
View Branch Events
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Branch Manager
Research and Learn
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Top 10 Homework Hacks with your ONE Access Account
September 5, 2025
This blog was written by Elyse Farmer, Program Coordinator at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.
Homework piling up now that school is back in session? Don’t stress, your ONE Access Library account has you covered! Each month we're sharing a Top 10 list in honor of ONE Access turning 10. Here are 10 Homework Hacks to make assignments easier this school year.
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Get Free Homework Help In-Person: All Charlotte Mecklenburg Library locations provide free Homework Help, where trained volunteers set up in our locations at least one afternoon each week to offer assistance with assignments, practicing other skills, or getting connected to library resources.
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Login for Free Professional Tutoring Help via Tutor.com: Cannot make it to a Library location? No worries! With your ONE Access Library account, you can access professional live tutoring via Tutor.com, a resource that provides certified tutors in any subject area daily from 3:00-11:00 p.m. 15 free sessions are available every week for ONE Access students!
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Never Pay for a Book Again: ONE Access Library accounts allow students to borrow up to 10 print or audiobooks, and borrow digital e-books, magazines, and audiobooks! When school reading assignments are given, check with your local library to access these materials; digital materials are available online, anytime!
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Great Study Spaces: Do you need a quiet place to study and complete your homework? Quiet, comfortable study spaces are available at library locations to help! Access to free Wi-Fi and study rooms are also available daily and on weekends, perfect for group projects.
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Access Current Events: ONE Access Students have access to hundreds of digital newspapers and magazines, perfect for assignments where informational text or current events are needed.
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Ace Research Papers: For students completing research papers, free library databases are available for use! Various digital databases are available- we recommend PebbleGo and PowerKnowledge for elementary school students, and SIRS Discoverer or ProQuest for middle and high school students. Many of these databases also offer free citation support, perfect for making sure assignments are just right.
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Language Homework Help: Learning a new language? ONE Access Library accounts have access to Transparent Language, a free learning platform for learners of all levels looking to build their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in a foreign language.
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Practice for Tests: Utilize the Learning Express/Prep Step eLearning platform with your ONE Access account, to access free practice tests in Math, English, Science, Social Studies (grades 4-12), as well as test prep courses for college placement tests.
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Explore Career Resources: Teens beginning their journey to deciding what to do after high school should take advantage of College and Career Connections programming at all Charlotte Mecklenburg Library locations. Free programs and workshops are offered by community experts from resources to pay for college, admissions essay help, test prep, and online practice tests. Starting in October, teens are also invited to take The Road Map to Success Challenge, by participating and logging activities over the course of the school year that aid in planning for their future to earn badges and prizes!
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Ask a Librarian: We saved the best for last! The biggest homework hack is for ONE Access students to make use of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library staff. Staff are always happy to recommend books and resources, programming, or a little encouragement to guide students in their learning.
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Visit your local library in-person or online to take advantage of these homework hacks today! Charlotte Mecklenburg Library wishes all students in our community a wonderful 2025-2026 school year.
Reading Buddies
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Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Carolina Ascent Football Club: A Winning Partnership for Welcoming Week
September 3, 2025
This blog post was written by Lonna Vines, branch manager at the Myers Park branch of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.
Charlotte, NC proudly holds the Certified Welcoming designation from Welcoming America, a recognition awarded to cities and counties that demonstrate a strong commitment to welcoming and immigrant inclusion. As of 2025, only 28 cities and counties across the U.S. have earned this honor.
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library recognizes the vital role that newcomers play in enriching our community, and we work year-round to help new residents -- with extra emphasis on international newcomers -- get connected, stay engaged, and feel at home in our city.
That’s why we are thrilled to announce a brand new partnership with the Carolina Ascent Football Club, Charlotte’s newest professional sports team. The Ascent is a women’s soccer team already making an impact on and off the field. What better organization to partner with in celebration of Welcoming Week than a team made up of athletes who know what it means to move to a new city and build a community.
Recently, library staff had the opportunity to visit a team practice and chat with a few of the players about their experiences moving to Charlotte.
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Meet Taylor Porter: Newcomer, Athlete, and Book Lover
One of those players was Taylor Porter, who joined Carolina Ascent FC and moved to Charlotte just over a year ago. Originally from sunny San Diego, Taylor knows firsthand what it’s like to make a big move and start fresh in a new city.
When asked about her transition to Charlotte, Taylor smiled:
“I think the thing that surprised me most was just how welcoming people are here. It’s not easy moving across the country, leaving behind friends and family, but Charlotte has a way of making you feel at home. My teammates have been incredible, but I’ve also met people just by exploring the city.”
Taylor admits she misses San Diego’s beaches, but she’s quickly found her own Charlotte favorites.
“I love exploring all the local coffee shops. Each one has such a different vibe, and it’s become my way of getting to know the city. Plus, as a reader, it’s the perfect place to relax with a good book.”
Her most recent read? Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry.
Taylor’s story highlights exactly why this partnership is so special—newcomers bring their passions, talents, and fresh perspectives, and in turn, they find belonging and community in Charlotte.
Celebrate Welcoming Week with Us
Welcoming Week 2025 will be held September 12–21, and the library has an exciting lineup of events planned. In addition to programs across our branches, we’re bringing back our popular Welcoming Challenge, running from September 1–30.
Here’s how it works:
- Pick up a challenge sheet at your nearest Charlotte Mecklenburg Library branch.
- Complete three activities from the sheet.
- Return your completed sheet to the branch to earn prizes!
Prizes include (while supplies last):
- Sign-up Prize: A WelcomeCLT Button
- Completion Prize: A WelcomeCLT Insulated Tote Bag + a free Carolina Ascent FC ticket
- Grand Prize: An internationally themed basket with books, snacks, merchandise, and a Carolina Ascent hospitality package for a family of four to enjoy food and fun at a match
Library Night with Carolina Ascent
Mark your calendars: Carolina Ascent FC is hosting a special “Library Night” on Wednesday, September 24 at 7:00pm at American Legion Memorial Stadium. All you need to join the fun is your WelcomeCLT Challenge sheet. Pick one up at your local library branch, complete your activities, and claim your free ticket!
Together, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Carolina Ascent are celebrating what makes our city so special: a community where everyone, whether brand new or lifelong resident, belongs. Visit WelcomeCLT.org to learn more.
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