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A family watches TV together.

Quarantine Top 10: Movies watched by Library customers since March 2020

December 7, 2020

Besides reading books, what else is fun to do in quarantine? Watch movies of course! Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers access to Kanopyan award-winning video streaming service that provides access to more than 30,000 independent and documentary films ─ titles of unique social and cultural value from The Criterion Collection, The Great Courses, Media Education Foundation and thousands of independent filmmakers. There is something for everyone in the family to watch.

Curious what Library customers have watched while quarantined? Below, you will find the top 10 movies our customers have been streamed on Kanopy since March 2020.  All you need to join in the fun is your Charlotte Mecklenburg Library card or One Access ID number!

Learn more about Kanopy and checkout limits, click here. Need a Library card? Sign up here.

The top 10 movies Library customers have watched since March 2020:

Creepy Carrots (2013) - The Twilight Zone comes to the carrot patch as a rabbit fears his favorite treats are out to get him. Run time: 10 minutes

Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus (2009) - When a bus driver takes a break from his route, a very unlikely volunteer springs up to take his place -- a pigeon! But you've never met one like this before. Run time: 8 minutes

Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late (2011) - It's getting dark out, but one stubborn Pigeon is NOT going to bed! Children will love this interactive bedtime romp, which puts readers back in the driver's seat, deflecting Pigeon's sly trickery as he tries to escape his inevitable bedtime. Will you let him stay up late? Run time: 8 minutes.

Midsommar (2010) - An American couple, their relationship floundering, travel to a fabled Swedish midsummer festival where they become trapped in a sinister nightmare. Run time: 148 minutes.

I’m Brave! (2015) - Come visit the firehouse and discover all the tools that firetrucks need to do their jobs and what it takes to be brave. Run time: 9 minutes.

What We Do In The Shadows (2014) - Housemates Viago, Deacon, and Vladislav (Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi & Jonathan Brugh) are three vampires who are trying to get by in modern society; from paying rent and doing housework to trying to get invited into nightclubs. They are just like anyone else - except they're immortal and must feast on human blood. When their 8000 year-old roommate Petyr, turns 20-something human hipster Nick, into a vampire, the guys must guide him through his newfound eternal life. Run time: 86 minutes. Rated R.

Episode One – The Difference Between Us (2003) - The Difference Between Us examines the contemporary science - including genetics - that challenges our common sense assumptions that human beings can be bundled into three or four fundamentally different groups according to their physical traits.  Run time: 58 minutes.

Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs (2015) - Once upon a time, there were three hungry Dinosaurs: Papa Dinosaur, Mama Dinosaur...and a Dinosaur who happened to be visiting from Norway. One day - for no particular reason - they decided to tidy up their house, make the beds, and prepare pudding of varying temperatures. And then - for no particular reason - they decided to go...someplace else. They are definitely not setting a trap for some succulent, unsupervised little girl. Run time: 11 minutes.

Lady Bird (2017) - Directed by Greta Gerwig and nominated for five Oscars, Lady Bird is a warm, affecting comedy about a high schooler (Saoirse Ronan) who must navigate a loving but turbulent relationship with her strong-willed mother (Laurie Metcalf) over the course of her eventful and poignant senior year of high school. Run time: 94 minutes. Rated R.

You Are (Not) Small (2016)  - Two fuzzy creatures can't agree on who is small and who is big, until a couple of surpise guests show up, settling it once and for all! An original and very funny story about size - it all depends on who's standing next to you. Run time : 5 minutes.
 

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This blog was written by Serena Guest of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

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Stay connected while staying home with online programming from the Library.

Online Programming from the Library - Week of 12/14/20

December 9, 2020

Did you know that you can continue to stay connected to the Library while staying home? How would you like to participate in a virtual storytime with your family or receive resume help all from the comfort of your couch? Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library every week for a wide range of online programming for children, teens and adults. See a complete listing of this upcoming programming for the week of 12/14/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Sunday 12/13

Jubilee Presented by the Journalism Collaborative – 4 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

 

Monday 12/14

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

Concert- Music at St. Albans – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

Parent Lunch & Learn: Building Your Child's Brain, One Book at a Time – 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

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

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

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

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

Learning Circle: Childhood in the Digital Age – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

 

Tuesday 12/15       

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's 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

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

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

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

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

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3:30 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

 

Wednesday 12/16

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's 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

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

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Teens Live on Instagram: DIY No-Sew Masks – 5 p.m. (Teen programming)   learn more

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

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

 

Thursday 12/17

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

One-on-One Ereader Tutoring – 10 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

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

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

Active Reading Training – 3 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3:30 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

Learning Circle: Functional Fitness – 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

Teen Fanfiction Writing Club – 5 p.m. (Teen 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 12/18

Family Storytime – 9:30 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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 12 p.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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 3:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

 

Saturday 12/19

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

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

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

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Sherrill Roland uses his experience of being wrongfully incarcerated is upending prejudices and creating a safe space for his community.

Building empathy by looking through your neighbor's lens

December 10, 2020

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.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library's Engage 2020 Art and Activism series offers a glimpse into present-day artists who have shared their talents, and even lives, to create social and civic change. Last month, I had the privilege of interviewing local artist Sherrill Roland for the final installment of this series to learn about his work with The Jumpsuit Project. Roland created this initiative in 2016 to spark conversations around the issues related to incarceration and its impact on those who experience it — a subject he is all too familiar with. In 2013, Roland found himself wrongfully incarcerated just as he was beginning his graduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. His performance encourages viewers to address their prejudices towards those incarcerated, and it challenges widely held beliefs surrounding the practice of mass incarceration. Through his work with The Jumpsuit Project, Roland is sparking real change in his community by sharing his own story and creating a safe space for others to learn about the lasting effects of mass incarceration.

Sherrill Roland's performance was one of the most powerful programs I've facilitated this year as his story resonated with me on many levels. We have all dealt with incarceration's effects, whether through personal experiences or having to cope with its impact on our loved ones. Through my interview with him, I was able to briefly glimpse life through his eyes. This experience allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the trauma and personal tragedy my own loved ones have endured — some of whom are still facing the challenge of rebuilding their lives after incarceration. Roland's story is compelling, and sheds light on the numerous injustices faced by many people of color today. So many Black Americans have experienced injustices just as he did, and this must change.

I encourage you to take a moment to watch the replay of my conversation with Sherrill Roland and examine your own prejudices today. Building empathy is the first step we can all take to build a stronger and more just community.

Check Out the Interview Replay

Learn More About Sherrill Roland and The Jumpsuit Project 

 

This blog post was written by Cearra Harris a teen services librarian at West Boulevard Library.

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Person reading an ebook on a mobile device.

Just keep reading: The top 10 e-books of quarantine

December 10, 2020

Since quarantine began, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library customers have downloaded 126,683 e-books from hoopla! More than ever, this is a good time to relax and escape into a great book. Below you will find the top ten adult fiction e-books downloaded on Hoopla by Library customers since March 2020.   

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.

On to the books:

  1. The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson
    The hardscrabble folks of Troublesome Creek have to scrap for everything-everything except books, that is. Thanks to Roosevelt's Kentucky Pack Horse Library Project, Troublesome's got its very own traveling librarian, Cussy Mary Carter.
     
  2. The Last Flight by Julie Clark
    Two women. Two Flights. One last chance to disappear.
     
  3. The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
    Two women-a female spy recruited to the real-life Alice Network in France during World War I and an unconventional American socialite searching for her cousin in 1947-are brought together in a mesmerizing story of courage and redemption.
     
  4. The Woman In The Window by A.J.
    It isn't paranoia if it's really happening…. Anna Fox lives alone-a recluse in her New York City home, unable to venture outside. She spends her day drinking wine (maybe too much), watching old movies, recalling happier times….and spying on her neighbors. Then the Russells move into the house across the way: a father, a mother, their teenage son. The perfect family. But when Anna, gazing out her window one night, sees something she shouldn't, her world begins to crumble-and its shocking secrets are laid bare.
     
  5. The Last Anniversary by Liane Moriarty
    Sophie Honeywell always wondered if Thomas Gordon was the one who got away. He was the perfect boyfriend, but on the day he was going to propose, she broke his heart. A year later he married his travel agent, while Sophie has been mortifyingly single ever since. Now Thomas is back in her life because Sophie has unexpectedly inherited his aunt Connie's house on Scribbly Gum Island-home of the famously unsolved Munro Baby mystery.
     
  6. 1984 by George Orwell
    Nineteen Eighty-Four, often published as 1984, is a dystopian novel published in 1949 by English author George Orwell. The novel is set in the year 1984 when most of the world population have become victims of perpetual war, omnipresent government surveillance and propaganda.
     
  7. The Summer House by Thomas Nelson
    Lily Bishop wakes one morning to find a good-bye note and divorce papers from her husband on the kitchen counter. Having moved to Alabama for his job only weeks before, Lily is devastated but forced to contemplate her next steps when she sees a flier at the grocery store for a hair stylist position in a local retirement community.
     
  8. Virgin River  by Robyn Carr
    When the recently widowed Melinda Monroe sees this ad, she quickly decides that the remote mountain town of Virgin River might be the perfect place to escape her heartache, and to reenergize the nursing career she loves. But her high hopes are dashed within an hour of arriving - the cabin is a dump, the roads are treacherous and the local doctor wants nothing to do with her. Realizing she's made a huge mistake, Mel decides to leave town the following morning. But a tiny baby abandoned on a front porch changes her plans…and former marine Jack Sheridan cements them into place.
     
  9. Beach Haven by T.I. Lowe
    Free-spirited Opal Gilbert seems to have everything she needs to keep living a happy life in Sunset Cove as she refurbishes vintage furniture to sell at her funky ocean-side boutique, Bless This Mess. Until Lincoln Cole, a new-to-town ex-Marine nursing deep wounds and harboring hurts he can't seem to shake, wanders into her shop.
     
  10. My Dear Hamilton by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie
    Coming of age on the perilous frontier of revolutionary New York, Elizabeth Schuyler champions the fight for independence. And when she meets Alexander Hamilton, Washington's penniless but passionate aide-de-camp, she's captivated by the young officer's charisma and brilliance.

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This blog was written by Serena Guest of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

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Charles Thomas - (Re)Discovering the Library's Importance in our Community

(Re)Discovering the Library's Importance in our Community

December 16, 2020

As I wrap up the year, I reflect on how crisis has shaken us to our core.  It’s during times like these that real friends and trusted partners are revealed. What I have (re)discovered is that the Library has again stood with and for our community during what may be the most challenging year in my lifetime, providing essential resources, serving as a partner and offering ingenuity and support during a difficult time.

In the early days of the pandemic, the library closed its doors but didn’t shutter its services. Instead, it expanded them and increased offerings. The Library’s innovation department partnered with a consortium of local universities, schools and health organizations to produce PPEs for our healthcare workers to help keep them safe in the fight. The team accomplished this by taking the Library’s 3D printers to produce PPEs from their own homes.

While physical locations were closed and then re-opened with limited services, the Library moved all its programming online, expanded its digital programming to provide virtual story times and offered online job help services. It also expanded access to thousands of e-books and digital resources for Library cardholders.

This past fall when school started, the Library was again on the front lines. A recent image posted on the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Instagram account illustrates this fact. The image shows a teacher and her students sitting on the sidewalk in front of the University City Regional Library. Why would a teacher set up class for her students outside of the library during a pandemic? They are using the Library’s free Wi-Fi. It’s hard for those of us blessed with multiple devices and internet access to imagine such a scenario for our children but COVID-19 has further revealed the divide in our community. The Library continues to be a bridge, providing access to information for all residents. 

The Library joined in efforts to close the digital divide and ensure more students and families had access to the internet and digital literacy by partnering with the County, neighborhood leaders and the Charlotte Digital Inclusion Alliance. In addition to providing Wi-Fi outside of its buildings, the Library used CARES Act funding from the County to provide 1,400 free computers to eligible households. This is an excellent example of how the Library works to improve lives and build a stronger community. The vital leadership role the Library plays throughout our area connects people to the resources they need.

I grew up a latchkey kid on Monroe Road across from East Mecklenburg High School and the Independence branch library, so I understand what it means to be without and to know what a vital resource our Library is. I recall relishing my hours perusing books, completing a research assignment or checking out the latest music. The Library was essential for my development and growth, and during this pandemic we’ve seen just how essential it is for the well-being of our community.

At the start of 2020, I checked out three books for my 11- and 13-year olds from the Mountain Island branch, including a book of home science experiments and books on how to build microcomputers. Little did I know that this would be my last time visiting a library branch in 2020. Within two weeks, the U.S. and world began to realize the significance of COVID-19 and within six weeks I was working from home and shortly thereafter my kids began schooling from home.

On week two of their remote learning, I remembered the experiment book I checked out at the Library. The kids were spending so much time on the computer that the book presented a perfect way to engage with them in the real world. Our first project was paper airplanes—old school and easy. We spent three hours outside with no devices, just laughing and telling stories of whose plane flew the furthest and giggling at the plane that landed on our neighbor’s roof. I thought, what an awesome time and wondered what was next. Then, I noticed the books were overdue. In the craziness of teleworking and homeschooling, I completely forgot to return our items. But when I checked my online Library account, I discovered I didn’t owe anything.  No fines were issued to any customers for overdue materials during the shutdown and subsequent early phases of re-opening. It was clearly an extension of the adaptability of their services.

Now as we look to plan for the next year, I sit down to take the Mecklenburg County Budget Survey and cast my vote for increased Library funding. The Library is at the top of my list of services worthy of additional investment because of its ability to adapt and provide essential services even in the most challenging of times. The Library was there when I was kid, it’s there for my children now and continues to be a resource for all. It is an organization I believe to be critical to the well-being of our Mecklenburg community. I encourage all of you to take the budget survey as well and request additional investment in our Library.

Click here to take the Mecklenburg County Budget Survey through December 23, 2020.

This blog is written by Charles Thomas, a Charlotte Mecklenburg Library card user and Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Board Trustee

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Online Programming from the Library - Week of 12/21/20

December 16, 2020

Did you know that you can continue to stay connected to the Library while staying home? How would you like to participate in a virtual storytime with your family or receive resume help all from the comfort of your couch? Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library every week for a wide range of online programming for children, teens and adults. See a complete listing of this upcoming programming for the week of 12/21/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 12/21

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Tuesday 12/22       

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Wednesday 12/23

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Thursday 12/24

LIBRARY CLOSED- NO PROGRAMMING

 

Friday 12/25

LIBRARY CLOSED- NO PROGRAMMING

 

Saturday 12/26

LIBRARY CLOSED- NO PROGRAMMING

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Books from the Library of Congress

Who knew government information could actually be interesting?

December 16, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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



 

 

 

 

 









 

 

(Left) Statistical Abstract of the United States

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

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

  

 

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

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

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

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

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Virtual Programming from the Library - Week of 5/11/20

May 7, 2020

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 5/11/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Sunday 5/10

International Authors Book Club for 20-30 Somethings (Virtual) - 4 p.m.   LEARN MORE

Monday 5/11

Family Storytime - 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)  REGISTER

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

Career Talk Over Coffee @ Home (Virtual) – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

French for Beginners – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Mindful Monday -12 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

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

One-on-One Homework Help - 1:30 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 Homework Help - 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) REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Teen Technology – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.   REGISTER

Career Connections: Meet a Realtor – 5 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

 

Tuesday 5/12              

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

Aprendiendo Juntos en Casa – 10 a.m. (information to be emailed to prior participants)

One-on-One Homework Help - 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

Learning Circle: The Science of Well-Being – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

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

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

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Teen and Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help - 1:30 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 Homework Help - 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 3 p.m.   (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.   REGISTER

Confident Career Moves with Ericka Spradley (virtual) Session 1 – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of K-3 Students – 6 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

WFAE Presents: Podcasting 101 – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Graphic Novel Book Club – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Matthews Fiction Writing Group - 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Murderino Book Club – 7 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m.  (Teen programming)  REGISTER

 

Wednesday 5/13

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

One-on-One Homework Help - 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

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

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

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Lunch & Munch Book Club - 12 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

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

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 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 Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

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

Engage 2020: School Age Stories – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Teen Technology – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Which Test Should I Take? SAT vs ACT with The Princeton Review – 4 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.    REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  REGISTER

Main Pages Book Club – 5:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

 

Thursday 5/14

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Write Like You Mean It – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)  LEARN MORE

Aprendiendo Juntos en Casa – 10 a.m. (information to be emailed to prior participants)

One-on-One Homework Help - 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

One-on-One Homework Help - 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

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

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

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

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Adult and Teen programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Planning for the Future with an Advance Directive – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of 2-5 year olds – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

One-on-One Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

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

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.   REGISTER

Book Talk: Children's - 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.  REGISTER

North County Regional Wordsmiths – 5 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Spanish Conversation Club – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Mystery Readers Book Club – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 7 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

English Conversation Club - 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Books on Tap Book Club – 7 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

 

Friday 5/15

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Nonprofit Services Coffee & Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 10 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Baby Storytime – 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

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

One-on-One Homework Help – 11 a.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

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

Spanish Conversation Club – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

One-on-One Homework Help – 1:30 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 Homework Help – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.   REGISTER

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

SAT Strategy Session with The Princeton Review – 4 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 4 p.m.  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Technology – 5 p.m.   REGISTER

 

Saturday 5/16

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

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

Laundry Day – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 1 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

English Conversation Club – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Finding Home Community Conversation – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 2 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

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Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers Mango Languages to cardholders seeking to learn a foreign language.

Explore the world and learn a new language

May 7, 2020

Desplácese hacia abajo para ver la versión en español

Have you thought about learning a new language? Do you want to improve your language skills? Maybe you haven’t practiced your Spanish in years, or you hope to visit France some day and want to learn basic French before you go. While you may not have access to Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s physical collection right now, we have several resources to help you reach your goals from home – or wherever your internet connection takes you. All of these are free with a Library card. 

Mango Languages offers interactive software for learning more than 70 world languages and includes more than 17 ESL/ELL courses. Each course allows you to practice listening, reading and speaking the language. You can use this resource as a guest, but if you create an account Mango Languages will track your progress so you can pick up where you left off each time you return. You can download the app to take learning with you. Watch this video for a quick tutorial and click here to get started. 



ESL students who want to continue their mastery of the English language while earning CEUs (Continuing Education Units) can also turn to Universal Class. When you access Universal Class through the Library’s website and create your free account, you’ll be able to take courses such as ESL Grammar Skills (Levels 1-5) and ESL Basic Writing Skills. These self-paced courses offer more structure with assignments to complete and feedback from an instructor. Finish the course to earn a certificate of completion. 

While taking advantage of online courses is an invaluable part of learning a language, it also helps to be able to interact with people in your community. For example, the Library offers weekly Conversation Clubs on our schedule of online programming. A Conversation Club allows participants to practice speaking a language in a relaxed environment, without the pressure of taking a class.  The Library currently offers English and Spanish Conversation Clubs and is working to add other languages soon. Visit the Library’s online calendar and be sure to register as space may be limited to ensure a positive experience for all who attend.  

The Library also provides resources to help you read or listen to texts in other languages. OverDrive and hoopla offer downloadable e-books and e-audiobooks in Spanish for all ages. TumbleBooks has a collection of e-books for children in French and Spanish under the “Language Learning” tab. Children can follow along as the book is read aloud or read independently. When you access the New York Times – Digital Solutions and create a free account, you can read the paper in English, Spanish or Chinese. A limited number of “offsite” passes is available each day. Learn more about using this resource at home here

The Library’s resources are free to use with your Library card or ONE Access ID. If you don’t have a card, you can apply for one here. So, what are you waiting for? ¡Si puedo comenzar hoy! - that means I can get started today! 

 

¿Ha pensado en aprender un nuevo idioma? ¿Quiere mejorar sus habilidades lingüísticas? Tal vez no ha practicado su español en años, o espera visitar Francia algún día y quiere aprender francés básico antes de ir. Si bien es posible que no tenga acceso a la colección física de la Biblioteca de Charlotte Mecklenburg en este momento, tenemos varios recursos para ayudarlo a alcanzar sus objetivos desde su hogar, o donde sea que lo lleve su conexión a Internet. Todo esto es gratis con una tarjeta de la biblioteca.

Mango Languages es un curso de aprendizaje de idiomas con más de 70 cursos de lenguajes mundiales y más de 17 cursos de inglés como segundo idioma (ESL por sus siglas en inglés) y aprendizaje del idioma inglés (ELL por sus siglas en inglés). Cada curso le permite practicar escuchar, leer y hablar el idioma. Puede usar este recurso como invitado, pero si crea una cuenta, Mango Languages hará un seguimiento de su progreso para que pueda retomarlo al ingresar. Puede descargar la aplicación para llevar el aprendizaje con usted. Mire este video para obtener un tutorial rápido y haga clic aquí para comenzar.

Los estudiantes de ESL que desean continuar su dominio del idioma inglés mientras obtienen Unidades de Educación Continua (CEUs por sus siglas en inglés) también pueden recurrir a Universal Class. Cuando ingresa a Universal Class a través del sitio web de la biblioteca y crea una cuenta gratuita, podrá tomar cursos como habilidades de gramática ESL (niveles 1-5) y habilidades básicas de escritura ESL. Estos cursos ofrecen más estructura con tareas para completar y comentarios de un instructor, y los puede llevar a su propio ritmo. Cuando termine el curso podrá obtener un certificado de finalización.

Si bien aprovechar los cursos en línea es una parte invaluable del aprendizaje de un idioma, también es bueno interactuar con las personas de su comunidad. Por ejemplo, la biblioteca ofrece clubes de conversación semanales en nuestro horario de programación en línea. Un club de conversación les permite a los participantes practicar la conversación de un idioma en un ambiente relajado, sin la presión de tomar una clase. La biblioteca actualmente ofrece clubes de conversación en inglés y español y agregará otros idiomas pronto. Visite el calendario en línea de la biblioteca y asegúrese de registrarse, ya que el espacio puede ser limitado para garantizar una experiencia positiva para todos los participantes.  



La biblioteca también proporciona recursos para ayudarlo a leer o escuchar textos en otros idiomas. OverDrive y hoopla ofrecen libros y audiolibros electrónicos descargables en español para todas las edades. TumbleBooks tiene una colección de libros electrónicos para niños en francés y español en la pestaña titulada "Language Learning". Los niños pueden escuchar mientras el libro se lee en voz alta o pueden leerlo de forma independiente. Cuando accede al periódico New York Times - Digital Solutions y crea una cuenta gratuita, puede leerlo en inglés, español o chino. Un número limitado de pases está disponible cada día. Obtenga más información sobre el uso de este recurso en casa aquí.

Los recursos de la biblioteca son de uso gratuito con su tarjeta de la biblioteca o su número de ONE Access. Si no tiene una tarjeta, puede solicitarla aquí. ¿Entonces, qué espera? I can get started today! - ¡Eso significa: ¡Sí puedo comenzar hoy!

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Teens can use Charlotte Mecklenburg Library's College & Career Connections programs to prepare for their future.

Teen talk: Take your next step during COVID-19

May 11, 2020

Deciding what to do after high school is stressful enough, but with everything going on in the world right now, we can’t imagine the additional pressure for teens. The good news is that Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has a whole initiative called College & Career Connections to make it a little easier to figure out your next step. We are still here for you! 

Though our libraries are physically closed, we are offering ways for you to map out your journey for after high school – whether you know your path or you’re still figuring things out. Register for one of our Book a Librarian – My Next Step for Teens programs where you can hop on a video call with a Teen Services staff member who can chat with you about making your next move. We’ll help guide you by connecting you with the resources you need to succeed. These 1-on-1 sessions are meant to be conversations, so there’s no pressure whether you have one question or ten! We’ve even increased our availability, adding new days and times to our calendar to better accommodate your schedule. If you haven’t seen our Road Map and Checklist, check it out here.   

Prefer just kicking back and listening? No problem. We have a new podcast series on Career Exploration on our Digital Branch page. The episodes are short, fun and engaging. Interested in giving back to your community and earning some community service hours?  You can find virtual volunteering opportunities here (and also digital escape rooms in case you feel the need to break free).

Also, if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed thinking about college testing, we have programs and resources to help ease your mind. We’ve teamed up with The Princeton Review to help you tackle those tests. Programs such as Which Test Should I Take? SAT vs ACT, SAT Strategy Session, ACT Strategy Session, Dream Colleges, Online Practice Tests and Scores Back Sessions will help you prepare for your future. Registration is free, but space is still limited. Be sure to check our online calendar for all the details. The College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) is also looking to help answer your financial aid and FAFSA questions, so we’ll let you know once that event is ready to go.        

Though this is all focused on College & Career Connections, the Library is working behind the scenes to start some new programs for you too. In fact, we’ve moved some fun, interactive programs to our ImaginOn Instagram page. Each week, we host Teens LIVE on Instagram Live to give you a place to kick back, relax and meet other students in the community while learning new skills, hobbies, participating in video and music challenges and so much more. We recently held sessions making no-sew masks and delicious, chocolate peanut butter no-bake cookies!

We hope you’ll join us for our next live programs. Until then, you can always connect with us on cmlibrary.org.