Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has always been regarded as a pillar in the community for children’s programming. If you would have visited the Library prior to March 15, 2020, you would’ve seen and heard children of all ages participating in storytimes, programming for school-age children, librarians helping children find books to enjoy, and children frolicking through Library locations to select books to take home and love. While a very different scene exists at our physical Library locations today, children’s programming has transitioned virtually, and we want you to join us online. There’s something online for every child to enjoy with the Library!

Programs for young children

Tune in to ImaginOn’s Facebook every morning at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. for live storytimes with your favorite Library storytellers. Build early literacy habits with tips from our librarians and enjoy listening to new books selected to share with you. Spanish storytimes are available every Tuesday and Thursday at 9:30 a.m. and babies can enjoy participating in a special baby storytime on Friday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Again, you can access these live storytimes by visiting and liking the ImaginOn Facebook page.

Programs for school-age children

We’ve got numerous exciting and engaging programs for your school-age child as well. Our Library staff has been busy creating enrichment programs and book talks for you to enjoy by accessing our Digital Branch online here. Learn to animate by making a Flip-o-Rama, hear Library staff share books from countries around the world, learn about cool genres to begin reading, and much more. New programs are added weekly. These programs are available anytime from the convenience of your home.

School-age support

Need help furthering your child’s learning? The Library is committed to improving reading proficiency for all children and provides educational support online too. One-on-one appointments are available every day for homework help and Reading Buddies. Our Library staff will join your child on a Zoom call to help with their classwork assignments and homework. Library staff are also available to be your child’s reading buddy to share some of our digital e-books (Spanish reading buddy support is available on Mondays). Sign up by visiting the online calendar and searching for these programs here.

While we miss having you at our physical locations, we continue to be here for you virtually. Take advantage of online programming for children with the Library today.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library encourages reading and learning all year long. The summer months, when students take a break from school, are critical to expanded learning. In fact, summertime poses the most academic risk because students without access to summer learning opportunities can fall behind their peers, creating an achievement gap that is hard to close.

To keep kids on track with important matters such as literacy and physical activity, the Library offers Summer Break, annual summer learning program that encourages children to read, learn and explore.

With library locations currently closed due to the state’s stay-at-home order, the Library has made some changes to the Summer Break program this year. This year, the program runs June 1 – August 8 with registration beginning on June 1. There will also be two separate—yet related—challenges:

• Summer Break: At Home (June 1-30) – All participants – babies, children, teens and adults – are challenged to stay at home and read 15 million minutes as a community while working towards earning virtual badges.
• Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere (July 1-August 8) - The community is challenged to read another 20 million minutes and, in addition to more virtual badges, participants can earn prizes.

Participants can sign up for Summer Break: At Home beginning June 1, and once signed up, will be automatically added to the second challenge. Participants can also pre-register for Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere on June 15. 

Also new this year, there is a mobile app called “Beanstack Tracker” where participants can create a free online account to track reading time, learning and leisure activities throughout the program. It’s easy to use:

• Download the app through your App store by searching “Beanstack Tracker,” made by Zoobean and downloading it to your phone or other device
• Create an account with your email address for just you, or your whole family, and search for “Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.” Then, select the challenge Summer Break: At Home
• Track activities online to collect virtual badges

Summer Break participants complete the program after achieving 600 points either through reading, or with a combination of reading and learning activities. During Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere (July 1 – August 8) participants can earn a Wendy’s Jr. Frosty coupon at sign up and a prize at completion. Prizes may be available after July 1, pending library operations. Prizes are available while supplies last. 

Sign up for Summer Break

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.

Many are currently searching for employment, perhaps more people than ever before in our lifetime. Whether you have changed jobs recently and feel comfortable navigating an online environment or are dusting off a resumé that hasn’t been touched in years, this is a vulnerable place to be. Our full attention may be on the very real need to get an income stream flowing. It can be desperate at times and incredibly discouraging to send out emails or applications without knowing when or if we will hear back.

In this time of seeking, we may forget about our own physical, mental and emotional needs, which may be different in a time of increased stress. It is important to periodically take a break from the intensity of a job search/application process and check in with ourselves to see what is needed.

A few questions to consider:

• How am I feeling (physically, mentally, emotionally)?
• When was the last time I completely relaxed?
• Am I eating foods that support my health needs?
• Am I getting enough physical activity to feel strong and vibrant?
• How am I talking to myself? Is it in alignment with my goals? Is it kind?
• What am I passionate about? Have I allowed myself time to pursue that?
• Is the media I am consuming contributing to a positive outlook?
• Am I connecting daily to the natural world?
• Am I connecting to people who are supportive of me and my goals?
• Am I exploring other outlets for education or support in my job search?

Then, most importantly, if you find areas where you have neglected yourself, take a moment to shift the day’s plan and allow for rest, nutrition or a phone call to a special friend. The ways we care for ourselves each day allow us to be the very best version of ourselves when we interact with the world. When you’re well rested, have eaten a healthy meal and taken a moment to reflect on what is needed, you are likely to feel more confident.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the many free resources the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers to support your job search. The Library offers a resume review service, job coaching, daily job postings and a multitude of online resources and workshops to help position you for success in your next job. Click here to see the full schedule of job and career programs available to you.

Did you know that you can continue to stay connected to the Library while staying home? How would you like to participate in a virtual storytime with your family or receive resume help all from the comfort of your couch? Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library every week for a wide range of virtual programming for children, teens and adults. See a complete listing of this upcoming programming for the week of 5/25/2020* below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

*As a reminder, there will be no virtual programming on Monday 5/25 in observance of Memorial Day

Sunday 5/24

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

Monday 5/25

NO PROGRAMS- MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY 

Tuesday 5/26              

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Navigating Financial Aid and Paying for College with CFNC – 12 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Mindful Mondays – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

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

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12:30 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ACT Scores Back Session – 3 p.m.  (Teen programming)  LEARN MORE

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

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

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

Confident Career Moves with Ericka Spradley (virtual) Session 3 – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

Southern Voices Book Club – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

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

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

Wednesday 5/27

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

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

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

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

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

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

History and Historical Fiction - 12 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

Murder by the Book – 12:15 p.m.  (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12:30 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Learning Circle: Getting Started with Microsoft Excel - 1 p.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SAT Scores Back Session – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   LEARN MORE

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

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

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

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

Thursday 5/28

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Non Profit Services: Intro to Proposal Writing – 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

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

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12:30 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER    

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elevator Pitch (Virtual) - 3 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

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

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

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

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

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

Poldark Book Club – 6:00 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

Friday 5/29

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

Finding Home: A Community Conversation – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

Favorite Books Book Club – 10:30 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

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

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

Spanish Basics (Virtual) – 1 a.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

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

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

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

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

Teens LIVE - Dorm Room Hacks – 3 p.m. (Teen programming)   LEARN MORE

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

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

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

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

Saturday 5/30

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

Learning Circle: The Science of Wellbeing – 9:30 a.m.  (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

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

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

Teens LIVE - How to Make Energy Bars – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)    LEARN MORE

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

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

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

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

Have you ever wanted to manage your holds from home but weren’t sure what to do? As Charlotte Mecklenburg Library prepares for its phased approach to re-opening, now is a great time to review the list of holds on your account and determine whether you still want or need those items. This post will explain the difference between canceling and suspending/pausing a hold and show you how to take care of both from your computer, tablet or mobile device. Please note: In this case, we are referring to physical items that you placed on hold, not requests for e-books or e-audiobooks.

Canceling a hold

Were you able to check out the e-book version of a print title that you had on hold and find that you no longer need the print copy? Did you request items to help with a school project that you no longer need? Canceling a hold means that you no longer need that item and want to remove it from your holds list. You can cancel holds through the Library’s website or through the Library’s mobile app. Find steps to manage your holds below or here.

Canceling holds through the Library’s website on a PC, tablet or smartphone

 1) Visit www.cmlibrary.org and click the account button at the top of the page.

2) Enter your Library card number, ONE Access ID or username; then enter your PIN and click Log In. If you’ve never accessed your account through the Library’s website before, you will be asked to create a new account. Tip: When you create an account in Bibliocommons (the name for the Library’s catalog system), you will be asked to create a username. For future logins, you can use either your Library card number/ONE Access ID or the username you create.

3) You’ll see a box labeled My Borrowing on the left side of your screen. This includes access to materials you have checked out, your holds, your borrowing history (if that feature has been enabled) and any fees associated with your account. To access your list of holds, click where it says On Hold.

4) The next page displays your current hold requests. If you only want to cancel one hold, click the Cancel hold button next to the appropriate item. 

 If you want to cancel multiple holds, check the box next to each of the items you want to cancel. You should see that a red box has appeared at the bottom of your screen. Click on Manage Items, then click on Cancel holds. The system will ask you to confirm that you do want to cancel those holds.

 

How to cancel holds using the Library’s mobile app

If you do not have the Library’s mobile app, you can download it for free through the app store on your tablet or smartphone.

1) Log in to the mobile app using your Library card or ONE Access ID and your PIN.

2) The items you currently have checked out will be listed first. Scroll down to the section titled Waiting on Availability. Press the Cancel button next to each item you want to cancel.

Pausing/suspending a hold

Do you tend to place a lot of materials on hold and then find that they all come in at one time? Have you ever been on vacation only to find that the materials you requested came in while you were away, causing you to miss the opportunity to check them out? When you suspend/pause a hold, your name continues to move up the holds list, but your hold will not come in for you until after the date that you set. Tip: If you are managing your holds through the website, you will see the term “pause hold,” but the Library’s mobile app uses the term “suspend holds.” They both accomplish the same task – this is just one of the quirks of the system.

How to pause holds using the Library’s website on a PC, smartphone or tablet

If you want to pause your hold for only one item, or if you want to pause holds for multiple items using different dates, follow steps one through three listed under “Canceling a hold using the Library’s website on a PC, smartphone or tablet” above. Click Pause Hold next to the appropriate item. Then, choose Select a date and use the calendar tool that appears to pick the date after which you want to receive your hold. Please note: This does not necessarily mean that your hold will come in for you on that date. When your hold arrives still depends on where you are on the request list as well as the availability of the item. This just means you can be assured that your hold will not come in until sometime after the date you choose.

If you want to pause multiple holds using the same date, check the box next to each item you want to pause. You should see that a red box has appeared at the bottom of your screen. Click on Manage Items, then click on Pause holds. You’ll have the opportunity to Select a date from a calendar, then click on Yes, pause holds.

How to suspend holds using the CMLibrary mobile app

1) Log in to the mobile app using your Library card or ONE Access ID and your PIN.

2) The items you currently have checked out will be listed first. Scroll down to the section titled Waiting on Availability. Press the Suspend button next to each item you want to suspend.

3) Select your Resume Date and press Ok.

We understand that managing holds can be confusing, so please reach out to Library staff for help at any time. Staff can also assist you with canceling/suspending holds on e-books and e-audiobooks. While the Library is physically closed, staff are available Monday-Friday through our Ask a Librarian chat service from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Click here to learn how to connect with staff if you’re new to online chat.

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 7/20/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 7/20

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 7/21             

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

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

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

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

Road to Medicare – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of 2-5 Year Olds – 2 p.m.  (Children's programming)   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

Wednesday 7/22

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

Effective LinkedIn Strategies – 10 a.m. (Adult 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

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

Teens LIVE: Summer Break Felt Pens – 6 p.m (Teen programming)  learn more

Thursday 7/23

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

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

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 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 – 2:30 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

Elevator Pitch – 4 p.m. (Adult programming)    register

Teens LIVE on Instagram: Paint with Sharpies – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)   learn more

Friday 7/24

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

Move to Write: Write to Move Creativity Workshop – 10 a.m.  (Adult 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 7/25

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

Sex, Drugs, and Rock & Roll: Writing Gripping Scenes – 1 p.m.  (Adult programming)  register

Engage 2020: Look Back, Move Forward, seeks to bring diverse audiences together through facilitated conversations around important civic issues. In conjunction with the Digital Public Library of America, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is providing opportunities for the community to learn more about the history of civic initiatives, as well as how that history relates to current events in our country.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Engage 2020 Summer Series continues on Monday, July 20 at 7 p.m. with a virtual presentation by UNCC Professor Dante Bryant. Dr. Bryant is an Assistant Professor with the School of Social Work at UNC-Charlotte. His area of expertise lies in examining racial inequity, community organizing, and social activism. The topic of Dr. Bryant’s presentation will be “The History of Racial Progress and Social Resistance to Change” is a timely one. Please join us for this engaging presentation by visiting the Library's Facebook page, where the event will be live-streamed.

For more information on the Engage 2020: Summer Series - A Conversation with Dante Bryant, click here.

Each summer Charlotte Mecklenburg Library encourages people of all ages to participate in our summer learning program, Summer Break. There are lots of reasons why! We think one of the best parts of Summer Break is hearing from participants about all the wonderful, little, powerful or unexpected ways that the program has impacted their lives. From encouraging participants to further explore the city, to motivating students to read all summer long, we’ve compiled some notable stories. Keep reading for inspiration.

Summer Break Helps People of All Ages Discover Love of Reading

One of the things customers share most frequently is how Summer Break fosters a love of reading. One local parent said her family was thankful for the program adaptations for this summer and downloaded e-materials from our suggested summer reading lists. Another local preteen, who didn’t like reading last year, has been reading a lot during the summer, found new books to read, and says he likes reading now. Even seniors have told us they’ve found a renewed love of reading by finding new author addictions.

Find your next read with us:

Adults: https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/lists/show/1622474999

Teens: https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/lists/show/1622475399

Children: https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/lists/show/1622475403

Children and Parents Love Summer Break

One preschool mother says she loves how this program gives points while also encouraging little ones to read something daily on their own. Another mom said it’s always such an effort to get her middle schooler to read, but Summer Break is phenomenal! Logging reading and activities and then receiving badges and prizes is such an awesome incentive and keeps him motivated.

Has Summer Break Made an Impact on You?

If you have a success story you’d like to share about Summer Break, we’d love to hear it!  You can email us at [email protected] or fill out the form on our website.