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Community Read: Chinese Art in Conversation

March 31, 2025

Not quite ready say goodbye to March - or our Community Read? Still have more questions about art, Chinese culture, or museums?

 

Take a look at our panel, which featured two experts on Chinese art in conversation with Anselm Smith, an Adult Services Library Associate at the Cornelius branch. The conversation touched on the history of the Zodiac heads that featured so prominently in the novel, the differences between Chinese and Western art, the tension between "regional" and "national" in Chinese art practices, the ideal museum, and more. 

Additionally, here are some further recommendations from our panelists:  

 

Dr. Ruiying Gao recommended Peter Hessler's Other Rivers: A Chinese Education, which has insight into the lives of two generations of Chinese students.

 

She's also looking forward to the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts’ exhibition of Japanese National Art Treasures. In particular, she's excited about Letter of Distress and Indignation, a calligraphy piece associated with Wang Xizhi (303-361), who is regarded as the greatest calligrapher in China. This specific piece was likely collected by the Japanese imperial house as early as the 8th century.

 

Dr. Yukina Zhang is a fan of LuYang's work, citing LuYang's play with gender, Traditional Chinese Medicine, spirituality, and the video games, anime, and manga subculture of the 1990s.

 

She also recommends the work of Lara Jaishree Netting. Her book, A Perpetual Fire: John C. Ferguson and His Quest for Chinese Art and Culture, looks at the life of an American collector of Chinese art who was discussed during the panel discussion and who serves as a model for Chinese-American friendship and appreciation.

 

For those in the area interested in Chinese bronzes, there will be a lecture by Dr. Pengliang Lu, Brooke Russell Astor Curator of Chinese Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, at Davidson College on Thursday, April 10, from 6:30 - 7:30.

 

See the flyer for more information! 

National Library Week 2025

April 7, 2025

National Library Week (NLW) is organized by the American Library Association (ALA) as "an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities." It is from April 6 to April 12.

 

We have prepared a series of images that highlight a few things that the Library offers the community!

Be sure to follow CML on social media and join the conversation by using the hashtag #NationalLibraryWeek

Summer VolunTeen Applications Opening Soon - Apply Today

April 15, 2025

Looking to earn community service hours this summer as a teen volunteer? Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is looking for responsible teens (ages 13-17) who enjoy working with the public, helping others, and giving back to their community. Applications open today, April 15th, at 3:30pm, which is when teens will be able to view available opportunities and apply. Applications will be accepted until the end of the month or until a branch reaches capacity. 

 

If you do not see a position posted for your preferred location, then a position is no longer available, and you will need to apply to another location. While there are a limited number of opportunities, almost all locations are participating in this program. Teens may only apply to one location per semester. Please note that applying does not guarantee a position. 

 

After you apply, someone from the library will contact you to set up an interview if you meet qualifications. If you wish to inquire about your application, please reach out to the branch where you applied to follow up. Please apply on the Volunteer page. Click on Become a Volunteer and search for “Summer VolunTeen” opportunities. 

 

Still have questions? Check our VolunTeen FAQs for more details! We look forward to seeing your application soon! 

Celebrate National Volunteer Week April 20-26, 2025 with the Library

April 16, 2025

This blog was written by Chauna Wall, Volunteer Coordinator for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

 

Volunteering is vital, an essential workforce to a community’s wellbeing. So many local and national programs from education to disaster relief to the arts are underpinned by the contributions of volunteers. Volunteers of all ages foster a community of connection and engagement.

 

Today we enter a week-long celebration called  National Volunteer Week  which runs from  April 20 - April 26, 2025  

 

During this week we take the opportunity to shine a light on the people that inspire us to serve for the benefit of the greater good.   Volunteerism empowers individuals to find their purpose, to take their passion and turn it into meaningful change. When you answer the call to make a difference, we make progress in “Improving Lives and Building a Stronger Community”,  our core mission.

 

We celebrate our volunteers for giving their time and talents to Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the many volunteers who stand with us in promoting inclusion, education and literacy to the entire community.

 

Every day our volunteers inspire us and help us create a more educated and literate community. Never doubt you make a measurable difference. Last year 1,235 volunteers gave us over 25,000 hours which equates to a value of over $800,000! 

Arthur “Buzzy” W.
Volunteer at South County Regional Library

 

Our Portuguese, Spanish, and English Conversation Clubs have many dedicated members, and we have become friends. We have become family.  We help each other by listening to each other and we make new friends.

Ashlyn W.
Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

 

I appreciate meeting new people, making new connections and the ability to contribute and help others.

Becky G. 
Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

 

I worked for Mecklenburg County for 30+ years and I like giving back to the community. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a great impact.

Carol L.
Volunteer at Independence Regional Library

 

I love being able to help make Library users feel more comfortable and supported.

Kathy M.
Reading Buddy at Mint Hill Library

 

It feels good to think someone might enjoy reading a little better because I volunteered.

Kay L. and Jack L.
Volunteers at South County Regional Library

 

I volunteer because I’ve always read, and libraries give people an opportunity to broaden their minds. - Kay

 

The Library is such a multifaceted resource that anything that I can do to make it more available to the community is worth my time and effort. - Jack

Lance W.
Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

 

Volunteering at the Library is a chance to give back. The staff at Mint Hill are wonderful!

Lee M.
Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

 

I’ve truly been blessed. I have always loved to read. I feel like I’m giving back some of the good things people have done for me.

Marianne L.
Volunteer at Matthews Library

 

Library books have always been a part of my life. As I grew older, I realized not everyone had access to books at home, but the Library filled that need. What could be a better way to give back to your community than to support the Library?

Meg S. and Winnie
Paws to Read Volunteers at ImaginOn

 

Helping young people practice their reading with Winnie unlocks a new confidence in reading and speaking skills that opens doors forever.

Pam M. and Seneca
Paws to Read volunteers at South County Regional Library

 

Seneca's enthusiasm, bright eyes, wagging tail, and willingness to bathe for her favorite volunteer destination keeps us coming back! Belly and ear scratches are in full abundance as well!

Robert M.
Paws to Read Volunteer at ImaginOn

 

No child should feel shame or fear when learning to read.

Sarah M.
Volunteer at ImaginOn

 

ImaginOn is such an amazing and creative space for kids, and the staff is very welcoming and kind.

Steven K.
Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

 

I love helping with Reading Buddies, the Student Success Center, Día and EpicFest.

Nora M.
Paws to Read Volunteer at ImaginOn

 

A child may come in and be afraid of reading, so they will just pet the dog. Ultimately, they feel more comfortable and will find a book and sit and read.

Alicia, Volunteer at SouthPark Regional Library:

 

"I love children's literature, especially picture books with their creative writing and unbelievable illustrations. I also think children are funny. When you combine reading a funny book with a fun child...it makes the volunteer work a real joy! I love escaping with books and hope to inspire this generation to find joy in the words and illustrations of children's literature. Thank you to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library system for making this possible."

 

Ben, Volunteer at SouthPark Regional Library:

 

"Technology can be daunting, but it's part of everyday life. I want people to feel more confident using their computers and phones. I don't know all the answers, so sometimes it becomes a quest with the person attending a class or tutoring session to see if we can find an answer or solution. The library offers Tech Titans 50+ programs, which is offered through a partnership with AARP, and it opened more ways I could volunteer."

 

Bernice Mar – CM Library Logistics Volunteer :

 

“Why do I want to volunteer? A strong library system is a vital part of every thriving community. This is a way for me to be an active part of a meaningful presence...an engine of sorts...that I believe is an essential, life-affirming resource that improves the quality-of-life for everyone (including non-library patrons).  As a child, the library is where I discovered that books opened a new and exciting world of stories, language, images, colors and patterns. It was such a treat to come home with a stack of new books to explore! That positive experience contributed to and blossomed into a lifelong love for reading, writing, learning, and self-expression. Eventually that led to a longstanding relationship with the Mecklenburg library system and its programs after moving to Charlotte two decades ago. “

 

 

You will see our VolunTeens and our adult volunteers helping with the following:

  • Adopt an Aisle which includes families and children 12 and under.
  • Tech tutoring classes and one on one learning
  • Leading writing groups
  • Training to be Reading Buddies and help with Student Success Centers  
  • Prepping for branch book sales
  • Shelving, pulling holds and helping with morning deliveries
  • English as a Second Language programs  
  • Stocking Free Little Libraries all over Mecklenburg County
  • The ever-popular Paws to Read program where even your trained dog can volunteer!

 

 If I may give a grateful nod to those of you who help our staff shelve in the children's department (which isn’t for the meek), and a special thank you to the 28  staff who have taken on the role of Volunteer Point Person (VPPs) who guide and engage with our volunteers daily. They have worked diligently to make the Library a great experience for our volunteers.  

 

Thank you for being a Library volunteer and helping deliver the magic of books, stories, technology and lifelong learning. You are a treasured and valuable part of our story.

Grand Opening of New University City Regional

January 28, 2025

This University City Regional branch closes for the final time on February 1 at 5:00 PM. The new University City Regional branch is located at 5528 Waters Edge Village Drive Charlotte, NC (behind the Applebee's on J.W. Clay Boulevard).


The Grand Opening will be on February 8 from 9:30am to 4:00pm. All invited to partake in the festivities. Activities for the day include family storytime, an Artist Talk with Anne Lemanski, Mother Minter, a 360 photo booth, gaming, a puppet show, music, a dance acrobatics performance, and face painting.

 

For details about specific events at the new University City Regional branch grand opening see this events page.

Sugar Creek Library Updates

February 3, 2025

UPCOMING MEETING

We want to know what you think! The new space will be filled with books and great staff. But, we want to know what else needs to go inside the new building and how it can best serve the community.

 

Join us to speak to the designers, and tell us what the new Library needs.

 

Tuesday, May 20
6:00p-8:00p
Sugar Creek Library
4045 N. Tryon St, Charlotte
Refreshments will be served

 

The Library is excited to share that the Sugar Creek branch will be getting a new location and a new building. Work on Sugar Creek will commence in early 2025 and the new building is scheduled to be completed in 2027.

 

The new library will double in size and is planned to be located near the Ella B Scarborough Community Resource Center. The architect selected for this project is Perkins + Will.

 

The Library is looking forward to sharing soon how the community can share thoughts and support for the new branch location.

From Letters to Legacy: The Romance That Built Wing Haven

February 11, 2025

This blog post was written by Brandon Lunsford, Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room Volunteer  

 

In December 2024, the Carolina Room received a generous donation from the Wing Haven Foundation, forming the new Wing Haven Collection. This collection documents the history of one of Charlotte’s most exceptional hidden gems—Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary. Located at 248 Ridgewood Avenue in the Myers Park neighborhood, Wing Haven began as the private residence and garden of Elizabeth and Eddie Clarkson. The couple built their home in 1927 as one of the first in the new neighborhood. Elizabeth’s interest in gardening transformed the once barren red clay landscape into a lush paradise of color. Her interest in birds and their habitats soon led to the creation of a sanctuary, attracting both feathered visitors and human admirers. Friends, neighbors, and professional ornithologists were welcomed to enjoy the gardens, where birds even felt comfortable enough to fly through the house and perch on Elizabeth’s arms as she played the piano. It was likely one of the only places in the world where birds and people coexisted in such harmony. In 1970, the Clarksons established the Wing Haven Foundation, officially opening the gardens to the public.

 

The collection also preserves the decades-long love story between Elizabeth and Eddie, which began in 1924. Author Mary Norton Kratt describes their courtship in her book, A Bird in the House: The Story of Wing Haven Gardens: “Elizabeth Barnhill told Eddie Clarkson on their first date in Boston, where he was working and where she was attending the New England Conservatory of Music, how she and her mother had raised white-winged doves.” After five years of courtship in seven states and one foreign country, Eddie and Elizabeth became engaged. After Eddie’s father urged him not to ‘let that pretty, little auburn-haired girl get away,’ Eddie drove to Uvalde, TX to propose to her. 

(Eddie and Elizabeth on their wedding day in 1927 in Texas)     

Eddie returned to his native Charlotte to build a home and a garden for his new bride following her precise instructions, and she remained in Texas until it was finished. While they were apart they wrote to each other daily–often multiple times on certain days. These letters, now part of the collection, offer a glimpse into their unwavering devotion. So far, we have processed their letters dating from July 1925 to April 1927—over 850 in total!  Every letter from Elizabeth begins with some variation of “To My Precious Boy,” and every response from Eddie is addressed to “My Most Precious Girl.” Eddie often slipped wildflowers into his letters, which remain beautifully preserved almost 100 years later.  

Letters between Elizabeth and Eddie dated March 17/18, 1926.

This correspondence continued throughout their 60-year marriage until Elizabeth’s passing in 1988. Eddie followed in 1993, having spent their entire lives together in the home and gardens they built with love.

Valentine’s Card from Eddie to Elizabeth, 1950’s

The Wing Haven Collection is divided into two main series. The first focuses on Elizabeth Clarkson and includes decades of correspondence between her, Eddie, family and friends, as well as photographs, slides, personal materials, and promotional content about Wing Haven. This material spans from the 1920s to the 1980s, with the bulk dating from the 1920s to 1940s. The second series is based around internationally known garden writer Elizabeth Lawrence, who moved to Charlotte in 1948 and cultivated her own garden nearby at 348 Ridgewood Avenue.  

Eddie and Elizabeth at Wing Haven, 1980s

In a city that is rapidly changing, stepping into the house at Wing Haven feels like travelling back to 1927. The home remains untouched since the Clarksons moved in—the original furniture, piano, and even the small window openings designed for birds to enter still exist as they were.

It’s a rare opportunity to experience Charlotte as it was a century ago and to witness a living tribute to a timeless love story.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Wing Haven Collection! To find out more about Wing Haven and its special history, visit Wing Haven.

Black History Month Recorded on the Microphone

February 28, 2025

This blog was written by Lawrence Turner, adult services librarian at South County Regional Library

The thing about Black history is that the truth is so much more complex than anything you could make up.—Henry Louis Gates, professor and literary critic

Granted, Black History Month is the shortest month of the year but there exists a wealth of information and personal stories that may continue into March and beyond.  A book search in the library catalog for “African Americans” and “interviews” brings up a treasure trove of experiences that reflect and document the country and environment with its warts and shining moments. An interested reader can find an eye-opening collection to explore. 


A detailed look at African American history covers the institute of slavery and the experiences of those enslaved. One compact book is Slavery Time When I was Chillun edited by Belinda Hurmence. It’s library catalog entry describes the book as: Twelve oral histories of former slaves selected from the more than 2000 interviewed as part of the Slave Narratives of the Library of Congress for the Works Progress Administration in 1936. 


Multiple books have been based on those interviews and Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has its share with some only available as ebooks and others only available at the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room, housing archives and special collections.


The Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room is a valuable resource for investigating segmented groups like North Carolina Slave Narratives: a Folk History of Slavery in North Carolina From Interviews With Former Slaves along with events years later as Freedom’s Children: Young Civil Rights Activists Tell Their Own Stories by Ellen Levine (interviews from the 1950s and 1960s).  Currently, the location is available for visit by appointment only with email as the preferred contact.  


These books provide a varied history of African Americans would be an appealing read for many concerning life experiences and aspirations.  Look at the life of Clarice Freeman of Houston, Texas, as a case in point. In Lift Every Voice: a Celebration of Black Lives, selected older African Americans are interviewed for their perspective on success and looking to the future. Freeman, 101 years-old, an educator and community leader, shared her fight for racial equality as an economic driven concern. She said: “After college, I joined the Congress of Racial Equality, or CORE. One of my first experiences with the group was shutting down a restaurant. A group of us decided to go have dinner at this place. And, of course, the manager met us at the door and told us, ‘No Blacks.’ We said, “We’re hungry. We’re not going away until you let us in.’ The manager closed manager closed the door and locked it, not allowing any customers in, including white people. Another time, we were fundraising, and I asked a local CEO for a donation. He looked at me and said, ‘When are you people going to stop begging and support yourselves?’ I said, ‘Well, when we become CEOs just like you, when we have jobs that pay us just like you pay your employees, maybe we will have enough money to support ourselves.’”


Look for Lift Every Voice and other related books in this Black history booklist.  
 

Integrated Library System Transition

March 3, 2025

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is updating its behind-the-scenes software this April. This software enables our staff to manage and checkout materials and for you to place holds. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this transition.

 

Schedule

March 22 - extended checkout
Physical materials checked out starting on March 22 will have extended checkout periods. Checkouts will extend from 3 weeks to 6 weeks.

 

April 1 - limited services
Library services will be limited. Cardholders cannot place holds, submit an interlibrary loan request, or suggest materials for the Library to purchase.  New online Library card sign ups are also unavailable, new card signups must be completed in-person at a branch.

 

April 4 - event registration 
Online registration for events will be unavailable.

 

April 11 - account access
The online catalog will only show materials that the Library currently own. Cardholders will not be able to log into their accounts online or through the mobile app.

 

April 13 - limited services
Patrons can only check out materials from the branch they are physically at and cannot request items to be transferred between branches. To check if materials are available at a specific branch, we recommend calling the branch directly. Staff will be unable to access inventory at other locations. In order to checkout materials, patrons must have their physical or digital card present. 

 

The Library will be unable to process returns during this time.  Any returned materials will remain on a cardholder’s account until April 23. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library does not charge late fines for any materials. If possible, we ask patrons to hold materials until April 23 when the Library is able to process returns again.

 

Cardholders will also be unable to log in to their accounts, but will be able to see events and browse the catalog.

 

All checkouts will return from the temporary 6 week checkout period to the original 3 week checkout.

 

April 18 - temporary closure
All branches and book drops close. The Library will remain closed through April 22.

 

April 21 - book drops
Book drops reopen.

 

April 23 - branches reopen
Branches reopen and holds return. A temporary catalog will be available for requests and title searches. Returned materials are removed from cardholders accounts.

 

May 5 - return to all normal services
All services return to normal. Library catalog/mobile app, interlibrary loans, material purchase suggestions, and Library card signups are all available.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the benefit to changing the computer software for materials?
The new software will allow for improved efficiency, materials management, and cardholder account management.

 

Does this affect digital services?

This transition will not impact the digital services at all. Digital services such as Libby, Hoopla, etc. will all still be available. We encourage you to visit our digital branch during this time by clicking here.

 

Will I be able to visit MoLi during this transition?

Beginning April 17, MoLi will not be out during this transition. MoLi will return to regular operations on April 24. For details on MoLi and the schedule of our Mobile Library, click here. For any questions about MoLi, reach out to [email protected].