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

Virtual Programming from the Library - Week of 9/14/20

September 10, 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 9/14/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Sunday 9/13

Engage 2020: Community Conversations - Local Voices Matter  register

 

Monday 9/14

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

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

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

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

Stronger Together: Support for your Job Search – 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

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

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

 

Tuesday 9/15         

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

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   learn more

Getting Started with Microsoft Powerpoint – 11 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

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of K-3 Students – 12 p.m. (Adult 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 – 12 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Intro to Proposal Writing – 2 p.m. (Adult programming) 

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

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 3 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

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

Creating Resumes with the Job Help Center – 6:30 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

 

Wednesday 9/16

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

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

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

Active Reading Comprehension Strategies for Upper Elementary Learners  – 3 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: The 1619 Project – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)

 

Thursday 9/17

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

Cuentos en 2 idiomas: inglés y español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   learn more

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

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

Learning Circle: American Sign Language – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

Learning Circle: Foundations of Mindfulness – 3 p.m. (Adult programming) 

Story Explorer’s Enrichment – 3 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

Book Talk: Children's – 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

Teens Live on Instagram: Bullet Journaling – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

Remote Learning 101: Using Library Resources to Enhance Your Child's Learning – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

 

Friday 9/18

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

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

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

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

Engage 2020: Ted Talks Discussion: The Importance of Seeking The Whole Story – 11 a.m. (Adult programming) 

Virtual Reading Buddies – 12 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

Mindful Friday- Meditation for Wellness – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Learning Circle: How to Be an LGBT+ Ally – 1 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

 

Saturday 9/19

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

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

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

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Remembering the life and legacy of Chadwick Boseman

Remembering the life and legacy of Chadwick Boseman

September 10, 2020

2020 is really something. Kobe Bryant’s sudden death in January brought a feeling of mortality that I cannot shake to this day. One doesn’t need to be a basketball fan to recognize the name of a man who influenced nearly every Black teen’s jump shot for the past 20 years. Kobe’s legacy lives on. Now, with Chadwick Boseman’s death in August, we honor a similar legacy.

In his most prolific role, Chadwick Boseman was much more than just the sovereign T’Challa of the fictional Wakanda. It’s his legacy as the Black Panther who gave young Black children in communities all over the world a hero who looked like them. 

Chadwick and Black Panther movie director Ryan Coogler were able to turn a somewhat obscure Marvel character into a mainstay while creating a cultural phenomenon. I saw Black Panther four times the month it came out. Inspired by the significance of the plot and my own personal role influencing children in the community, I decided to don the Black Panther persona in the Library, hoping to accomplish a fraction of what Chadwick managed to do in his role onscreen. Black men are significantly underrepresented in libraries and education, so as the outlier I could show the real importance of that representation.

Even my roleplaying of this character only scratches the surface of what this fine actor accomplished. Long before Black Panther or his rise to superstardom, Boseman played other notable Black heroes like Jackie Robinson, Thurgood Marshall and James Brown. In his personal life, Chadwick was often acknowledged for his kindness, humility and strength of character. He continued to be a hero despite his cancer diagnosis. That is another reason why his death is surreal to me. It is especially devastating when the good die young.

2020 was supposed to be our year, a year full of potential, the start to a shiny new decade that would leave behind the uncertainty of years past and bring hope to a new generation. What we got in return was a far cry from our expectations, and so broad in its effect there isn’t enough room on this page to recount it all. (SPOILER ALERT) Much like the end of the movie Avengers: Infinity War, we have been left blindsided by the sheer amount of loss. If there was one thing I was not prepared for when watching that movie for the first time, it was for the heroes to fall short, lose their battle and perish. Among the fallen was King T’Challa/Black Panther himself, who disintegrated amid the chaos of war. The Marvel Universe can easily correct any adversity with a second movie but, sadly, there are no do-overs in the real world and we mourn the loss of Chadwick Boseman. A king has fallen but the kingdom lives on. Wakanda Forever.

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This blog was written by Darius Smalls at the ImaginOn branch of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

 

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Supporting your Black coworkers

Supporting your Black coworkers

September 11, 2020

James Baldwin once said, “To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all the time...”

Although Baldwin was quoted saying this in 1961, his words still resonate in 2020 concerning America’s state of affairs. Imagine being Black and waking up nearly every day to a new case of police brutality against Black people, with protests erupting from supporters of Black lives lost and brutalized and still having to go on with your regular routine.

Work. It is that place where we spend most of our time and forge formidable relationships that we sustain throughout life--or at least until we move on to the next job. Work is the routine we must keep up in these trying times. We have lifestyles to maintain, which depends on whether you are earning a livable wage.

Still, the most prominent obstacle in keeping up with the day-to-day is dealing with how Black people are treated in America and how current events affect Black people in the workplace. We become mad, sad, numb, sometimes desensitized, and a whole host of other feelings. Black people are constantly working to cope with what’s happening to them in the streets. We consider taking time to embrace the care needed surrounding being Black in America and seeking support from other Black people­-–specifically family and close friends. But how do we perceive and receive support from the place where we spend most of our time: the workplace?

Navigating the workplace as a Black employee is trying during times of civil unrest. Many organizations have become hyper-aware of these circumstances and are taking steps to address the issues to support Black people. The workplace’s response to what’s happening in America with Black people is crucial in maintaining a healthy space where we can feel safe with our thoughts, feelings and actions. We spend much of our life in the workplace, and emotional safety is becoming something that we need more and more of because Black people are emotionally drained. The support of leaders and coworkers is essential to the productivity and deliverables expected of our time spent at work.

Here are some ways you can support your Black employees and coworkers:

  • Allow space. Be empathetic to the needs of Black people and their need to take a break and be silent. We don’t always want to talk about it.
  • Recognize your privilege. Don’t be so comfortable in your privilege that you alienate the people with whom you work closely.
  • Get educated. Don’t expect Black people to educate you on what’s going on with the state of Black people in America. Educate yourself beyond what you see in the news and on social media.
  • Broadcast your support. Be an ally and an anti-racist. Call people out when they say or do racist things because your silence is complicit.

 

 

 

Now let’s revisit the quote by James Baldwin, but this time in full: “To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a state of rage almost, almost all of the time — and in one’s work. And part of the rage is this: It isn’t only what is happening to you. But it’s what’s happening all around you and all of the time in the face of the most extraordinary and criminal indifference, indifference of most white people in this country, and their ignorance. Now, since this is so, it’s a great temptation to simplify the issues under the illusion that if you simplify them enough, people will recognize them. I think this illusion is very dangerous because, in fact, it isn’t the way it works. A complex thing can’t be made simple. You simply have to try to deal with it in all its complexity and hope to get that complexity across.”

Now, let’s sit with that, welcome these suggestions, and make impactful change in the world.

This blog written by De’Trice Fox at the Job Help Center at Main Library of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library 

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Learning from the uncomfortable

Learning from the uncomfortable

September 11, 2020

As a teen librarian, I was hesitant about developing and facilitating my first virtual program during the summer of 2020. The weight of current events made it difficult for me as I found myself unmotivated to promote my regular programs. In many of the outreach programs I facilitate, transparency is a common theme. Being transparent allows me to build authentic trust and form healthy relationships with the teens I serve. So, I knew if I facilitated a program that did not address current events, I would be doing my participants, the community and myself a disservice. As a teen librarian, my ultimate goal is to ensure that my department is viewed as a learning center for young adults. If we’re honest with ourselves, we learn the most when we’re uncomfortable and while having tough but important conversations.

Navigating how to have a conversation about race with teens was tricky. I knew a structured program would feel forced and disingenuous. While we’re all getting used to virtual meetings, an open dialogue might not be productive because the online space is a difficult place to exhibit vulnerability. Establishing the trust necessary to have an open discussion about race takes time and a lot of trial and error. 

I began developing my program knowing that for the first session engagement would mostly likely be minimal and so I shifted my measurement of success. To me, this program would be successful if even only one participant felt safe enough to share his or her experiences. I also invited panelists to be a part of the program. Collaborating with people who are dedicated to social change helped me build confidence while providing important suggestions as I developed the program. Ultimately, the program was a success. The panelists offered great insight, and the program participants were actively engaged.

As we navigate the necessary conversations about race and other issues in our community, we need to shift our focus. This is especially true when having these conversations with youth. We shouldn’t shy away from tough conversations because, ultimately, they foster healthy dialogue and true growth. They allow us to connect and build trust with the people who matter most to us. As we collaborate with trusted community members and organizations, we do our part to build a stronger community.

Today, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and do something to spark real change in your conversation. Whether it’s attending one of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Black Lives Matter programs or having a tough conversation of your own, just know taking one step today can positively impact your community tomorrow.

 

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This blog was written by Cearra Harris at the West Boulevard Library branch of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

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Get to Know the Allegra Westbrooks Regional Community

September 8, 2023

Situated conveniently off I-85 and Beatties Ford Road, Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library is located in the Lincoln Heights community in Charlotte’s Historic West End.

Formerly Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, Allegra Westbrooks Regional is the only Charlotte Mecklenburg Library named for an individual. Ms. Westbrooks began her career with the Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County in 1947. Prior to desegregation, she managed the only library serving African American residents in Charlotte at the time—the Brevard Street Library for Negroes. Ms. Westbrooks was promoted to Supervisor of Branches in 1957, making her the first African American public library supervisor in North Carolina. She served in this role for many years until her retirement in 1984. Ms. Westbrooks passed away in April 2017 at the age of 96.

Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library welcomes customers from many neighborhoods along and around busy Beatties Ford Road serving a diverse community of readers, learners, job seekers, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and more. A variety of library programs are offered including multiple book clubs, a multigenerational chess club, technology classes, and Storytime among others. Collections include a diverse selection of materials such as fiction and non-fiction titles in multiple world languages, African-American fiction collection and African-American and religion non-circulating collections.

Located just over a mile away from the Library is Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte’s only   historically Black college/university (HBCU) and West Complex,  “the largest culturally centered placemaking project on the West Side.” Unique community organizations like For the Struggle, Inc.  and Beatties Ford Road Vocational Training Center can also be found just blocks away from Allegra Westbrooks Regional. Well-established eateries like West End Fresh Seafood Market and Original Chicken and Ribs along with newcomer Archive CLT, a local staff favorite.

New residents may find support through the Office of Equity, Mobility, and Immigrant Integration , Refugee Health – Mecklenburg County Public Health, and Refugee Support Services. Are you new to Charlotte? Explore other neighborhoods through the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library blog and WelcomeCLT, a digital space created for newcomers to Charlotte.

Resources:

This blog post was written by Alesha Lackey, regional manager for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

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Banned Book Story Time at Charlotte Museum of History

September 12, 2023

*This blog was compiled with information from charlottemuseum.org*

Censorship of information in public libraries and schools has become a hot topic for debate in recent months. While we haven’t yet had to implement these ‘book bans’ here in Charlotte, we are certainly witnessing a significant moment in our country’s history as lengthy lists of accredited authors and titles are prohibited from public and educational spaces. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Charlotte Museum of History have partnered to bring these beloved and incredibly important stories to readers of all levels in the Charlotte community: introducing Banned Book Story Time!

Join us for one “banned” title a month and share in the magic of storytelling. Learn about key moments in our history, expose your young readers to new perspectives, encourage creativity and imagination, and excite their love of reading!

Each program will differ in theme so there is always something new and exciting to look forward to. All programs will include an interactive ‘banned book’ storytime session with a Charlotte Mecklenburg Library representative, and a supplementary activity to reinforce that month’s theme. Let’s put an end to censorship by celebrating the many stories, people, cultures, and perspectives that make up our diverse Charlotte community (and beyond!).

All storytimes are free and located at the Charlotte Museum of History. The following dates are the scheduled storytimes (click the links to register): 

The Charlotte Museum of History saves and shares the Charlotte region’s history, connecting the past to current issues and opportunities. We believe a shared understanding of the past can enrich the community’s future, and we work to tell the stories of all parts of our community and all those who have inhabited our area.

The museum sits on an eight-acre wooded campus in fast-changing East Charlotte. It’s the site of the oldest surviving house in Mecklenburg County, the Rock House built circa 1774 for the Hezekiah Alexander household. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a designated local landmark, the house is Charlotte’s only remaining structure from the days of the Revolutionary period. Nearby are a relocated barn dating to the era, a reproduction log kitchen, and a reconstructed two-story springhouse. Tours of the site and museum programs highlight how people lived during that era and tell of the many cultures that came together to build Charlotte, including the stories of Black, Indigenous, and immigrant communities.

Find more at Charlotte Museum of History Events

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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage with Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

September 13, 2023

This blog was updated September 5, 2023 to reflect current Census data.

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, an estimated 14% of the population, or 157,118 residents, is Hispanic.

Each year, from September 15 to October 15, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library joins in the national celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, but we believe in celebrating el ritmo (the rhythm) of Hispanic culture yearlong! We honor the contributions of American citizens from Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean, according to the Library of Congress’ official website. Need resources or looking for ways to celebrate Hispanic culture and the Latinx community? We provide a few resources below.

Curious to learn about the rich, cultural presence and contributions of Hispanic people in the Queen City? Click here to read Con A de Arte: A history of Hispanic Presence in Charlotte which takes a closer look our culturally rich neighbors.

Looking for a great book that explores Hispanic culture? Click here to dive into curated book lists that cover topics for children, teens and adults – including detective and mystery fiction, Young Adult (YA) books with Latinx Voices and other Spanish-English bilingual reads.

In collaboration with Cine Casual (www.cinecasual.com), a Charlotte-based site that specializes in Ibero-American cinema, you can find a curated a list of books and films that tell the struggles of being Hispanic/Latinx in the United States, while also highlighting and celebrating the pride and accomplishments of the community.

As always, you can explore our calendar of events to see what programs and activities are coming up in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

Looking for events around town? Check out the Latin American Coalition's 33nd Festival Latinoamericano on September 23, 2023 in Charlotte's east side and the 11th annual Hola Charlotte Festival hosted by Norsan Media in Uptown Charlotte on October 7, 2023.

We look forward to celebrating with you this month. Visit cmlibrary.org for more events, news and updates.

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 Este blog se actualizó el 5 de septiembre de 2023 para reflejar los datos actuales del censo.

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.? En el condado de Mecklenburg, se calcula que un 14 % de la población, es decir, 157,118 residentes, son hispanos.

Cada año, desde el 15 de septiembre hasta el 15 de octubre, la biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg se une a la celebración nacional del Mes de la Herencia Hispana, pero ¡creemos en celebrar el ritmo de la cultura hispana todo el año! Rendimos homenaje a los aportes de ciudadanos americanos de México, América Central, América del Sur y el Caribe, según se indica en el sitio web oficial de la Biblioteca del Congreso. ¿Necesita recursos o busca maneras de celebrar la cultura hispana y la comunidad latina? A continuación, encontrará algunos recursos.

¿Siente curiosidad por aprender acerca de la rica presencia cultural y los aportes de los hispanos en Queen City? Haga clic aquí para leer Con A de Arte: A history of Hispanic Presence in Charlotte (Con A de Arte: la historia de la presencia hispana en Charlotte) que analiza en detalle a nuestros vecinos rebosantes de cultura.

¿Busca un buen libro para descubrir la cultura hispana? Haga clic aquí para descubrir listas de libros seleccionados que cubren temas para niños, adolescentes y adultos, incluso ficción detectivesca y de misterio, libros para jóvenes adultos con voces latinas y otras lecturas bilingües en español y en inglés.

En colaboración con Cine Casual (www.cinecasual.com), un sitio con sede en Charlotte que se especializa en cine iberoamericano, podrá encontrar una lista de libros y películas seleccionados que detallan las dificultades de ser hispano o latino en los Estados Unidos, al mismo tiempo que destaca y celebra el orgullo y los logros de la comunidad.

Como siempre, puede explorar nuestro calendario de eventos para ver qué programas y actividades habrá para celebrar el Mes Nacional de la Herencia Hispana. 

¿En busca de eventos en la ciudad? Visite el 33.º Festival Latinoamericano de la Coalición Latinoamericana el 23 de septiembre de 2023 en el área este de Charlotte y el 11.º Hola Charlotte Festival anual organizado por Norsan Media en Uptown Charlotte el 7 de octubre de 2023.

Esperamos celebrar este mes juntos. Visite cmlibrary.org para descubrir más eventos, novedades y actualizaciones.

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Celebrating Poetry Month with Art at Myers Park Library

March 13, 2023

This blog was written by Mimi Curlee, adult librarian with Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, in March 2023

 

April is National Poetry Month. If you haven’t experienced any poetry since “Roses are red, violets are blue….” we encourage you to expand your poetry experience this month. The Myers Park Library has invited artist Justin Klaus to create an art installation celebrating the poetry of Dionne D. Hunter.

 

Facing the intersection of Queens and Providence roads, the artist has stretched shrinkwrap between 3 trees. He's spray painted a stanza from the poem “I’m at that Age” by local poet Dionne D. Hunter. He also sprain painted her portrait! 

 

All ages are invited to Celebrate Poetry Month with Dionne D. Hunter for a reading of the poem at on Tuesday, April 25th at 4:00pm. School age children created a sign that points foot traffic from the parking lot to the art installation. The installation will remain up for two weeks, weather permitting.

 

Please join us at this intersection of poetry, art, paint, and creativity to celebrate! 

 

I’m at that Age
by Dionne D. Hunter

 

I’m at the age where I appreciate every sunrise, sunset and all the hours 
in between

 

The age that causes me to notice the rhythmic timing of each breath

 

Each one serving as a reminder to thank God for allowing me to see
another day…

 

I’m at that age where things have start to stiffen up and maybe I don’t
move as fluently as I did at twenty two

 

But I’m also at that age where I realize so many people didn’t even get to
see today
So, I pray on bent and aching knee
Thank You Lord for Blessing me

 

I’m at that age where I see my kids making some of the same mistakes
that I did
And have to remind myself that though never easy
I made it through and so will they

 

I’m at that age where I understand that money will never buy true
happiness
But I’m also at that age where I understand that it definitely does help to
have a bit

 

I’m at that age where 6 pack abs still attract
But I’m also at that age where the actions of a true gentleman stops me
in my tracks

 

I’m at that age where I know what it means to be a Woman and how to
treat my Man

 

Beginning with listening to him while he explains what he needs from
me
Because, although there may be many similarities
All men are not the same

 

I’m at that age where I know good things don’t come to those who wait
They go to those who Plan, Work, Educate, Sacrifice, and repeat
rigorously over and over, and over again

 

I’m at that age where I appreciate spending time with my entire family
Whether we’re on good terms or not
Because I’m at that age where I’ve begun to lose so many people that I
care about.

 

I’m at that age where I’m bearing down on that age when more chapters
of my life will be in past instead of future tense
But I’m also at that age where I refuse to give up
I continue to strive
To Climb
To Improve
To Share and Create
Baring my Soul to the Universe
Honoring my Ancestors
My God and Myself
By becoming the best version of me possible
Striving to be MORE!
Loving!
Caring!
Patient and Nonjudgmental!
Because I’m at that age….

 

While you’re waiting, find some poetry to read. How can you resist titles such as How to Fly (in Ten Thousand Easy Lessons) by Barbara Kingsolver and The Courage of a Butterfly by Edmond E. Frank. Click this list for more recommendations.

 

Bios:

 Justin Klaus, aka J Voc is a local Charlotte artist specializing in acrylic, aerosol murals and original paintings. His love of bright colors finds its way into almost all of his work; including abstracts, landscapes, and portraits. J Voc is a self-taught artist who believes you should never stop learning or seeking to use your talents and skills to lift others up. While he does offer commissioned work of all kinds, Justin most enjoys creating pieces that edify the soul; evoking thoughts and emotions of Love, Joy, Unity, and Freedom. When he’s not painting, you will likely find him on a skateboard, surfboard, or bike. You can see more of his work on Instagram @jvoc_art and at www.jvocart.com.

 

 

 

Dionne D Hunter is an Author, Poet, and Spoken Word Artist who is also proud to be a United States Navy Veteran, mother of two and grandmother of four. She’s the author of a short story titled “I am a Dahomey Warrior!” which follows the life of a young girl growing up in Africa prior to its colonization. In addition, Ms. Hunter’s poetry has been published in several anthologies, and she was a finalist for the 2022 inaugural position of Charlotte North Carolina Poet Laureate. To contact Ms. Hunter please email [email protected]

 

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South County Regional Library Anniversary Blog

September 19, 2023

South County Regional Library celebrates its 25-year anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 24 from 1-4 p.m. The Library, located at 5801 Rea Road, at the intersection of Rea Road and Pineville-Matthews Road, opened its doors to the public on September 20, 1998.    

Since then, some things have changed. There are no aquariums on the second floor anymore, but there is a makerspace with 3D printers, a vinyl cutter, and a laser cutter. The water sculpture hanging above the stairs and the enormous teal eel have gone, but public art, created by North Carolina artist and sculptor Jim Gallucci, Open Book, Open Mind was installed during the 2021 renovation.   

Customers and community members are invited on Sunday to celebrate the Library and its presence in the community. Visit MoLi (CML’s mobile library) or the Detour Coffee truck, stop to watch a demonstration of the Bob Ross style of art, walk along the photo gallery of South County’s history, or look for the newly displayed artwork provided through a new partnership with the Charlotte Art League.  

There’s a bit of something for everyone this Sunday at South County Regional! Learn more at https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/64cbd4a9c102fe4100a2455f.

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Library Expanding Partnership with CMS through Hiring Events

September 21, 2023

*Written by David Sniffin, Library Program Manager - Workforce Development*

Beginning in February of 2023, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, in partnership with Charlotte Works/NC Works, started hosting hiring events with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools at targeted regional locations. So far, hiring events have been hosted at Independence Regional Library, North County Regional Library, and South County Regional Library. 

These are not traditional job fairs but are designed and marketed as hiring events where job seekers can earn employment on the spot. These hiring events are the first time that CMS has offered joint instructional and non-instructional hiring opportunities to fill existing needs across multiple schools and departments. The Library looks forward to continuing this partnership as it continues to offer hiring events throughout 2023 and into late 2024.  

Hiring events will take place at the following locations through 2024:

  • Allegra Westbrooks Regional on April 24
  • Independence Regional on May 15
  • Allegra Westbrooks Regional on June 25
  • South County Regional on July 31