Have you ever had an idea that you couldn’t wrap your head around? Have you ever struggled with how to present yourself confidently in interviews? Or maybe you just needed to talk with someone who could offer objective career development strategies. In the initial stages of any project, idea or career advice opportunity, there are points of confusion or discontentment that lead to frustration. Sometimes, you need a listening ear that will provide sound guidance to help you along or confirm your efforts.

This moment is when most people seek out a coach.

Friends and family have a good ear and offer advice, but what is most needed for someone seeking options for growth and improvement is the assistance of someone who can provide objective insight, helping to identify goals, achieve perspective, supply effective feedback, and furnish support.

Coaching can key into personal potential that leads to maximized performance in career, entrepreneurship, personal, professional and business growth. The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers such “talk it out” sessions in the form of Career Development Intensive Coaching. Coaching sessions occur weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This coaching service primarily helps Library customers by assisting with:

• Resume/cover letter/LinkedIn coaching
• Mock interviewing and interview strategies
• Strategizing the job search
• Negotiating salaries
• Career changes and transitioning
• Talking out ideas and projects for entrepreneurs and small businesses

The Library’s Career Development Intensive Coaching is geared towards coaching individuals on personal and professional growth and development, career confidence, small business ideas, resources, business development and enhancing the entrepreneurial mindset. At some point, everyone is looking for growth and improvement in their life and you can talk it out with a coach at your local Library.

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This blog was written by De'Trice Fox of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Over the past few months, the United States has found itself gripped by a wave of emotions, ranging from weariness and frustration to combustible love and empathy. As protests and demonstrations in response to years of police brutality and centuries of racial injustice boil over, the Charlotte Journalism Collaborative (CJC) finds themselves wanting to connect with the local community and steer the conversation towards a better tomorrow. They believe there’s no better time than now to inspire change that truly fosters justice for all.

On Sunday, June 28, 2020, the CJC, comprised of a partnership of six major media companies and other local institutions including The Charlotte Observer, La Noticia, Qcitymetro, qnotes, WCNC, WFAE, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and more, will kick off the first event in a two-part, virtual program meant to foster a greater community discussion on the racial iniquities and injustice plaguing the nation. The first event, a watch party for the Vice special Black South Rising, provides a look at Black Americans living in the United States and the centuries-old prejudice many experience within systems that significantly impact their human rights, civil liberties, access to education and healthcare, socio-economic wellbeing and more – with an even sharper focus on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community. As the Collaborative continues to report on the affordable housing crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, a wider lens is necessary to recognize the intersections of racial inequality and to investigate workable solutions. The screening will run from 6-8 p.m.

Then, on July 2, 2020, at 6 p.m., the Collaborative will conclude its Black South Rising program with a virtual community discussion. Participants are encouraged to bring conversation ideas and suggestions to influence anti-racist policy and equitable change forward. Attendees might consider solutions implemented by other cities, states or countries and revisit suggestions Charlotte community members, government and other city institutions have yet to execute.

Do not miss your chance to watch this eye-opening film and participate in important dialogue with members of a community sourced panel including Justin Perry, licensed clinical social worker and community therapist and Tina Marshall, community activist.

Please be sure to register for both events. Links to register are provided below:

• Charlotte Journalism Collaborative Presents: Black South Rising - Watch Party
• Charlotte Journalism Collaborative Presents: Black South Rising Conversation
   

Looking to access Black South Rising before or after the weekend? View the film on Vice’s website here.
Feel free to still join in on the July 2 Black South Rising discussion at 6 p.m. Register here. 

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This blog was written by Asha Ellison of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

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 6/28/2020* below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

*There will be no programming on 7/3 and 7/4 in observance of the Independence Day holiday. 

Sunday 6/28

Charlotte Journalism Collaborative Presents: Black South Rising - Watch Party – 6 p.m.  (Adult programming)  learn more

Monday 6/29

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

French for Beginners – 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

Mindful Mondays – 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. (Adult programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 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)  learn more

Tuesday 6/30              

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 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

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: Learning Circles: Women Have Always Worked (Part 3) – 11 a.m.  (Adult 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

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

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 2 p.m.   (Children's programming)  learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Teen Anime Club – 3 p.m.  (Teen programming)   register

Traditional Storytelling – 3 p.m. (Children’s programming)  learn more

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

Wednesday 7/1

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Bridging the Social Distance: A Community Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

Online Listen and Move 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

Poetry in Pajamas – 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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Teens LIVE: Wonder Woman Diadem Cosplay – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

Charlemos Charlotte: Spanish-English Language Exchange – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Thursday 7/2

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 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

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

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

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Elevator Pitch (Virtual) – 3 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Book Talk: Children's – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Charlotte Journalism Collaborative Presents: Black South Rising Conversation – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  learn more

Friday 7/3

LIBRARY CLOSED – NO PROGRAMMING 

Saturday 7/4

LIBRARY CLOSED – NO PROGRAMMING

CLICK HERE TO SEARCH TITLES

ADULT NONFICTION:

The Only Plane in the Sky, by Garrett Graff
Winner of Audiobook of the Year

Award-winning journalist and author Graff paints a comprehensive, minute-by-minute account of the September 11 attacks, told in the words of those who experienced that dramatic and tragic day. From the firefighters who streamed into the smoke-filled stairwells of the Twin Towers to the fighter pilots scrambled from air bases with orders to shoot down any hijacked commercial aircraft; from the teachers who held their fear at bay while evacuating terrified children from nearby schools; to the stricken family members trapped helplessly on the ground, Graff weaves together the unforgettable testimonies of men and women caught in an unprecedented human drama.

The judging panel praised this unique production: “The Only Plane in the Sky is an extraordinary achievement that takes a gut-wrenching and almost unimaginable text and re-injects its humanness. Graff has created a historical document with the deftness of a poet and this production only builds on it, adding a narrative propulsion that never seems exploitative and an emotional depth that's never overwrought.”

Grace will Lead us Home, by Jennifer Hawes
Winner, Nonfiction

On June 17, 2015, 12 members of the historically black Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina welcomed a young white man to their evening Bible study. He arrived with a pistol, 88 bullets, and hopes of starting a race war. Dylann Roof’s massacre of nine innocents horrified the nation. Two days later, some relatives of the dead stood at Roof’s hearing and said, “I forgive you.” That grace offered the country a hopeful ending to an awful story. But for the survivors and victims’ families, the journey had just begun.

“This audiobook achieves an exceptional performance of an important work on a difficult subject - mass murder and its aftermath.”—AudioFile magazine
 

ADULT FICTION:

Ten Thousand Doors of January, by Alex E. Harrow
Winner, Fantasy

In the early 1900s, in a sprawling mansion filled with peculiar treasures, January Scaller is a curiosity herself. As the ward of the wealthy Mr. Locke, she feels little different from the artifacts that decorate the halls: carefully maintained, largely ignored, and utterly out of place. Then she finds a strange book. A book that carries the scent of other worlds and tells a tale of secret doors, of love, adventure, and danger.

“January LaVoy's breathtaking narration shines in a fantasy in which Doors offer infinite possibilities for adventure.”—AudioFile magazine
 

CHILDREN:

Charlotte’s Web, by E.B. White
Winner, Middle Grades

Brought to life by Meryl Streep and a full cast, this beloved book by E. B. White is a classic of children's literature that is “just about perfect” (New York Times). Some Pig. Humble. Radiant. These are the words in Charlotte's Web, high up in Zuckerman's barn. Charlotte's spiderweb tells of her feelings for a little pig named Wilbur, who simply wants a friend. They also express the love of a girl named Fern, who saved Wilbur's life when he was born the runt of his litter.

“Every portrayal of every character, major and minor, bursts with personality.”—AudioFile magazine
 

New Kid, by Jerry Craft
Finalist

Riverdale Academy Day School is every parent's dream for their child: it has a beautiful sprawling campus, a rigorous academic curriculum, and ample extracurricular activities. It's also distinctly lacking in diversity. African-American new kid Jordan Banks would rather go to art school, but his parents have enrolled him, so he dutifully commutes to the Bronx from his home in Washington Heights, Manhattan. When he's not being confused with the few other students of color, he is being spoken to in slang, is receiving looks when financial aid is mentioned, or is forced to navigate many more micro-aggressions. Artwork by Craft interweaves the story with

Jordan's sketchbook drawings, which convey the tension of existing in two markedly different places. The sketches show him being called "angry" for his observations, feeling minuscule in a cafeteria, and traveling by public transportation across different socioeconomic and racially segregated neighborhoods, changing his outfit and demeanor to fit in. This engaging story offers an authentic secondary cast and captures the high jinks of middle schoolers and the tensions that come with being a person of color in a traditionally white space. Ages 8-12.
 

YOUNG ADULT:

Hey, Kiddo, by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Winner

In this profoundly moving memoir about growing up in a family grappling with addiction, Krosoczka describes his youth. His mom was an addict, in and out of rehab; his father was a mystery; and Jarrett lived with his grandparents - two very loud, loving, opinionated people who had thought they were through with raising children until Jarrett came along.

“A full cast of more than 40 performers brings this powerful graphic novel memoir vividly to life. Narrator pros Jeanne Birdsall, Richard Ferrone, and Jenna Lamia take the roles of the grandparents and the author's birth mother. His father voices himself, reliving the painful memories of their family history. Young Jarrett and his friend Pat are portrayed by Jarrett's and Pat's children, and Jarrett's aunts deliver their own parts as well, making every interaction incredibly authentic.”—AudioFile magazine

June is almost over and that means it’s time for the second half of our double challenge, Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere!  From July 1 to August 8 we are challenging the community to read 20 million minutes. If you participated in our first challenge, you are automatically enrolled. If not sign up today at summerbreak.cmlibrary.org! In June we read 2,265,939 minutes and we know we can beat that during these dog days of summer.

Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere challenges our community to read 20 million minutes together. Log your reading time to be eligible for the following prizes:

• Wendy’s Jr. Frosty coupon when you sign up
• Babies and children earn a new book upon completion of the challenge
• Teens earn either a new book or a fun doodle notebook upon completion of the challenge
• Adults earn a library tote bag upon completion of the challenge

Summer Break prize distribution is not available during current library operations and procedures. Keep checking our website for details on when library operations permit prizes to be claimed.

*All prizes will be available while supplies last.

Complete Summer Break during each challenge by reaching 600 points. These points can be obtained by:

Logging at least 10 hours of reading time (600 points)

OR

Logging any combination of reading and learning activities with at least 5 hours of reading for a total of 600 points.

Please note that you can only earn 300 points for doing learning activities, and we encourage you to read all summer long!

Children’s Learning Activities for Summer Break

This summer discover the learning moments all around us. The Library is here to help you get your child ready to read with simple activities every day.

Read:

• Try a new book from one of our Book Talks for children.
• Choose a book from one of our suggested children’s reading lists for Summer Break.

Explore:

• Use the Library resource PowerKnowledge to learn about the animals in your backyard.
• Attend an online concert or play.

Create:

• Save old items to create sensory games and boards
• Try a science experiment with one of these library resources.

Play:

• Create puppets, then use them to act out a play.
• Play a board game.

Give:

• Write a letter to a senior at a nursing home or assisted living facility.
• Draw something encouraging on your driveway or sidewalk.

Write:

• Play "restaurant" and take your family's orders on a notepad.
• Write a new ending to your favorite book or story.

Innovative and Educational Programs for Children

Though our Summer Break 2020 program can be completed entirely online, our libraries are hosting some wonderful virtual programs this summer for kids. 

Read: Book Talks: Children’s (Thursdays at 3 p.m. on YouTube)

Want to know what to read next? Each week librarians recommend new titles for all ages! We’ve got book recommendations for all interests: interactive mysteries, magical creatures, family read-alouds, and more!

learn more

Explore: Story Explorers Enrichment (Tuesdays at 2 p.m. on YouTube)

Learn about a new topic each week with a fun activity you can do with items at home! Discover whirlygigs, fireworks in a glass, and more in these videos!

learn more

Play: Listen and Move Storytimes (M/W at 10:30 a.m. on Facebook Live)

Move your body and discover new stories in this energetic storytime focused on lots of dancing and movement

learn more

Write: StoryWalks at local parks

Need inspiration for writing your own story? Try visiting a local park to enjoy a StoryWalk! All 5 parks have had new stories installed, and it’s great time to get some fresh air, connect with fun stories, and be inspired! If you visit a StoryWalk, please let us know what you think by completing the survey at the end of each StoryWalk.

Learn more

Visit our calendar for even more upcoming virtual programs that you can access from home!  Choose “Select tag(s)” on the right to narrow down by age.

Comments? Questions?

Are you having problems with the Summer Break 2020 website or your account?  Do you have questions about the program? Do you have a wonderful story to share about the Library and Summer Break? Feel free to chat with us online or email us at [email protected] for help or feedback.

The 2020 Summer Break program is brought to you by Charlotte Mecklenburg Library with additional support from Wendy’s and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation. 

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 7/6/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 7/6

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 10 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

Mindful Mondays – 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. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 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)   learn more

Tuesday 7/7              

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 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

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: Learning Circles: Women Have Always Worked (Part 4) – 11 a.m.  (Adult 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

Nonprofit Services: Intro to Finding Grants – 2 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

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

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 2 p.m.   (Children's programming)  learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Traditional Storytelling – 3 p.m. (Children’s programming)  learn more

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

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of K-3 Students – 6 p.m.  (Adult programming)  register

Wednesday 7/8

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Bridging the Social Distance: A Community Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

Online Listen and Move 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

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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Teens LIVE: Pokemon Perler Bead Art – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

Engage 2020: 21-Day Racial Equity and Social Justice Challenge – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Thursday 7/9

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 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

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

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

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Elevator Pitch (Virtual) – 3 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Book Talk: Children's – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Teens LIVE on Instagram: No Sew Masks – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

Friday 7/10

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

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

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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Saturday 7/11

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

Learning Circle: The Science of Well-Being – 9:30 a.m.  (Adult programming)  register

Getting Started Podcasting – 10 a.m.  (Adult programming)  register

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

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

Engage 2020 is pleased to welcome Sonya Ramsey, Ph.D., of the UNC Charlotte History department for the Engage 2020: Summer Series - A Conversation on Tuesday, July 14 at 7 p.m. 

Dr. Ramsey is an Associate Professor of History and Women’s and Gender Studies and Director of the Graduate Certificate Program in Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Born in  Elizabeth City, North Carolina, she grew up in Nashville, Tennessee. She received a Master’s and a Ph.D. in United States History from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Dr. Ramsey specializes in African American Women’s History, the History of Education, and Southern History. An experienced oral historian, in 1993, she became one of the original interviewers in the Behind the Veil Project: Documenting the Jim Crow South oral history project sponsored by Duke University and the Ford Foundation.

Dr. Ramsey is the author of several historical works including, Reading, Writing, and Segregation: a Century of Black Women Teachers in Nashville, published by the University of Illinois Press. Currently, she is completing her book manuscript, After the Marches: Bertha Maxwell-Roddey's Educational Activism in the Desegregated South, which is under advanced contract with the University Press of Florida.

She is currently writing a biography of Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey (b. 1930), who served on the front lines in Charlotte’s school desegregation battles as one of the first black women principals of a white elementary school in 1968. She worked to create a supportive and academically engaging environment for students as the founding director of UNC Charlotte’s Africana Studies Department (1971) and as the founder of the National Council for Black Studies, (1975) and she became a local community institution builder as Co-Founder of the Harvey Gantt Center. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey and other black women educators fought to improve children’s lives as the nation’s sentiment turned away from alleviating poverty, school segregation, and discrimination after the 1970s.

CARING AS ACTIVISM: BLACK WOMEN SCHOOL LEADERS AND SOCIAL CHANGE FROM THE 1950s TO THE 1990s

In these tumultuous times, one can see the impact of collective action. Dr. Ramsey's presentation will focus on a less prominent, but just as effective form of activism by discussing the experiences of four local African American women educational activists, Jayne Hemphill, the principal of Alexander Street Elementary School during segregation; Elizabeth Randolph, a former principal and the first black woman CMS administrator, Kathleen Crosby, a principal during the 1970s busing era and a CMS Area Superintendent, and Bertha Maxwell-Roddey, one of the first black women principals of a white elementary school in the City and founder of UNC Charlotte’s Africana Studies Department. These school leaders practiced a form of ‘caring activism’ as they fought against sexism and racism to develop unique strategies from negotiation to confrontation to help their students thrive. The lessons that they taught their students extended beyond the classroom and can serve as guides as we all strive to be caring activists.  

Dr. Ramsey's presentation will be streamed live on the Library’s Facebook page and will be available afterward for viewing.  We hope you will join the conversation. See the event details here.

In this election year, the Library is partnering with the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) offering programs like this one to encourage everyone to look back at what has been accomplished in the past and to move forward with empowerment to make a difference in one's own community. To learn more about Engage 2020, click here.

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 7/13/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 7/13

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 10 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

Mindful Mondays – 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. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 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)  learn more

Tuesday 7/14             

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 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

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

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 2 p.m.   (Children's programming)  learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Traditional Storytelling – 3 p.m. (Children’s programming)  learn more

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

Active Reading Comprehension Strategies for Upper Elementary Learners  – 6 p.m.  (Adult programming)  register

Engage 2020: Summer Series with Historian Sonya Ramsey – 7 p.m.  (Adult programming)  learn more

Wednesday 7/15

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Bridging the Social Distance: A Community Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

Online Listen and Move 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

Poetry in Pajamas – 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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

Engage 2020: 21-Day Racial Equity and Social Justice Challenge – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Planning for the Future with an Advance Directive – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Thursday 7/16

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 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

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

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

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

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 – 2:30 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)  learn more

Teens LIVE on Instagram: Photo Transfer Art – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

Social Justice Book Club – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Friday 7/17

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

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

Ted Talk Discussion Group: Climate Change – 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 – 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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

Saturday 7/18

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

Learning Circle: The Science of Well-Being – 9:30 a.m.  (Adult programming)  register

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

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

Did you know that babies, toddlers and preschoolers can join in on Summer Break too? Reading time includes time spent being read to and time spent reading to someone else. This means that parents can log reading time for everyone whether they read to or with their child!  

This summer discover the learning moments all around us. The Library is here to help you get your child ready to read with simple activities every day.  

When you register your child ages 0-3 years for Summer Break, you will find age-appropriate activities to complete to earn virtual badges, in addition to reading. We also have a colorful pamphlet with ideas for learning activities and lots of great literacy tips. Some of our activity ideas include:  

Read: 

• Participate in virtual storytime with your child. 

• Talk about the beginning, middle and end of the story while reading a book. 

Explore: 

• Visit a Storywalk at a local park  

• Move like the animals in the book you are reading. 

Create: 

• Make up a silly song and sing it 

• Create art using your handprint or footprint 

Play: 

• Turn everyday moments into brain building activities by explaining what you're doing and encouraging your toddler. 

• Play I Spy using the world around you. 

Give: 

• Talk about flowers with your child and give one to someone special. 

• Video chat a friend or family member online to cheer them up. 

Write: 

• Use your fingers to practice writing your name in shaving cream. 

• Name all the words you can think of that begin with the first letter of your name. 

Learn About the Benefits of Active Reading 

Active Reading is a great way to engage with your child while you read together. The ABCs of Active Reading are:  

• A: Ask Questions. Open ended questions get kids talking. “What do you think will happen next in the story?” 

• B: Build Vocabulary. Demonstrating new words builds vocabulary. Don’t just read the word “whisper” – actually whisper.  

• C: Connect to Child’s World. Relating the story to what kids know helps them learn more about the world.  

The Summer Break program is wonderful for all ages! We have activities, book suggestions and programs for babies, children, teens and adults. 

Comments? Questions? 

Are you having problems with the Summer Break website or your account? Do you have questions about the program? Feel free to call your local library for assistance or email [email protected]. 

The 2020 Summer Break program is brought to you by Charlotte Mecklenburg Library with additional support from Wendy’s and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation. 

Looking for some great movies your kids can watch now that school is out for the summer? Look no further.

Hoopla  has a great selection of movies for kids. Here are the top five that have been streaming on Hoopla. All you need to join in the fun is your Charlotte Mecklenburg Library card or One Access ID!

Learn more about hoopla and checkout limits here.  Need a Library card?  Sign up here.

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog (2010) - The popular children’s book is turned into a short movie. When Pigeon finds a delicious hot dog, he can't wait to devour it. But then along comes a sly duckling who wants a bite. Who will be the more clever bird? Run time: 7 minutes

Dragons Love Tacos 2: The Sequel (2002) - News alert! It has just been discovered that there are NO MORE TACOS left anywhere in the world. This is a huge problem because, as you know, dragons love tacos. If only there was a way for the dragons to travel back in time to before tacos went extinct. Then they could grab lots of tacos and bring them back! It's the perfect plan, as long as there's no spicy salsa. You remember what happened last time... The award-winning creators of Robo-Sauce and Secret Pizza Party return with a gut-bustingly hilarious companion to the bestselling phenomenon Dragons Love Tacos. Run time: 10 minutes

My Little Pony Equestria Girls (2013) - When her crown is stolen from the Crystal Empire, Twilight Sparkle pursues the thief, Sunset Shimmer, into an alternate world where she finds herself turned into…a teenage girl! To regain her crown and return to Equestria, Twilight must learn how to fit into this strange new world and defeat Sunset Shimmer in a competition to become crowned Princess of the Fall Formal at Canterlot High. Luckily, she'll have the assistance of Spike and five teenage girls who remind her of a certain group of ponies back home. Run time: 1 hour and 12 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: 7 minutes

Elmo’s Potty Time  (2010) -  Potty training can be fun! Create a positive potty time experience for your child with Elmo and his Sesame Street friends with Elmo's Potty Time! This amusing and song-filled story teaches children that everyone has to learn how to use the potty. Your child will learn that accidents are okay and that it takes time and practice before he can use the potty on his own. So dance, sing, and laugh as your child learns confidence-building skills and helpful healthy habits that will last a lifetime! Run time 44minutes.

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