This year, going back to school looks different for everyone. While many students are settling into virtual school and learning from home, others are attending school in a hybrid format including online and in-person instruction, and some may be fully back in the classroom. Whatever the case, this curated list of back-to-school reads includes home schooling titles for parents and titles with characters who are home-schooled themselves.

Click here to browse the CMLibrary Suggests: Back-toSchool Book List

ADULT NONFICTION

Born Reading:  Bringing Up Bookworms in a Digital Age, by Jason Boog

Most parents spend time thinking about how to give their child a competitive advantage in our fast-paced society. Interactive reading gives kids a significant edge, writes journalist Boog, a former publishing editor at Mediabistro, where he was also lead editor of the site's GalleyCat publishing blog. He asserts that there is a right way to read to your child between birth and age five. For each year, Boog provides a reading list and specific storytelling lessons, which include key questions to ask children to scaffold understanding. The book's "Playbook" section has tips and conversation starters to help novices navigate the read-aloud experience. For the higher preschool levels, Boog shares how following these reading guidelines correlates with specific Common Core standards. The explosion of digital devices is bringing a new face to reading, and the author shares how to make e-readers, smartphones, and tablets complement rather than distract from the book experience. He includes digital resources, apps, and audiobooks. VERDICT Boog's work helps parents navigate the world of reading and harness the positive power of digital technology. Librarians, preschool teachers, and parents will find this a valuable resource for building childhood literacy.
 

Make it Stick:  The Science of Successful Learning, by Peter C. Brown

Co-authors Brown (Jumping the Job Track), Henry L. Roediger (James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor of Psychology, Washington Univ. in St. Louis), and Mark A. McDaniel (psychology, director of the Ctr. for Integrative Research on Cognition, Learning, and Education, Washington Univ. in St. Louis) challenge traditional ideas about learning in this survey of cognitive studies. The authors contend that, contrary to popular belief, effective long-term learning doesn't occur through passive and repeated exposure to information. Rather, learners can best acquire knowledge by actively recalling information and connecting it to their own experience. Brown, Roediger, and McDaniel enumerate principles for improving learning, but they couch these ideas in narrative, including personal anecdotes and case studies that demonstrate each point. The authors provide suggestions to students, adult learners, and trainers who may wish to implement new techniques in instruction. All the while, they demonstrate their own principles by reiterating key concepts, building associations, and interweaving topics throughout the book. Instructors and students will find that this title not only describes cognitive principles in general terms but also provides specific examples of study techniques and methods for constructing more effective courses. VERDICT This book will appeal to high school and college students as well as educators, trainers, and anyone interested in improving memory or having a better understanding of cognitive science.
 

Help Your Kids with Math, from DK Publishing

Using a full-color illustrated approach, a guide to parental math tutoring looks at every aspect of the challenging subject, from simple sums to simultaneous equations, in a book with simple explanations and clear illustrations that parents can share with their children.
 

How to Work and Homeschool, by Pamela Price

Do you want to homeschool, but you need to keep working? Maybe you're already homeschooling, but you would like to start a business? Perhaps you're homeschooling, working, and volunteering, but need to create space for yourself? How can this possibly be done? How do other parents manage? Enter Pamela Price of Red, White & Grew. After interviewing parents who are dealing with these very issues, Pamela has written "How to Work and Homeschool: Practical Advice, Tips, and Strategies from Parents," published by GHF Press. Filled with real world examples and tried-and-tested approaches, "How to Work and Homeschool" will give you the ideas and confidence to develop a game plan to incorporate work, homeschool, family obligations, and more into your busy life. Pamela busts myths about work and homeschool, shares some truths, and even provides sample schedules to help you get started.  Whether you're considering homeschooling or are a veteran looking to make a change, "How to Work and Homeschool: Practical Advice, Tips, and Strategies from Parents" will help you on your journey.

The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart

A joyful and accessible approach to homeschool that harnesses children's natural curiosity and makes learning a part of everyday life, whether they're in elementary or high school. Parents who are deeply invested in their children's education can be hard on themselves and their kids. When exhausted parents are living the day-to-day grind, it can seem impossible to muster enough energy to make learning fun or interesting. How do parents nurture a love of learning amid childhood chaos, parental self-doubt, the flu, and state academic standards? In this book, Julie Bogart distills decades of experience--homeschooling her five now grown children, developing curricula, and training homeschooling families around the world--to show parents how to make education an exciting, even enchanting, experience for their kids, whether they're in elementary or high school. Enchantment is about ease, not striving. Bogart shows parents how to make room for surprise, mystery, risk, and adventure in their family's routine, so they can create an environment that naturally moves learning forward. If a child wants to pick up a new hobby or explore a subject area that the parent knows little about, it's easy to simply say "no" to end the discussion and the parental discomfort, while dousing their child's curious spark. Bogart gently invites parents to model brave learning for their kids so they, too, can approach life with curiosity, joy, and the courage to take learning risks.

JUVENILE FICTION

Stop the Presses, by Rachel Wise

Sam's love of newsprint clashes with her love for the planet--and her BFF--in a Dear Know-It-All conflict of newsworthy proportions! When Sam hears Cherry Valley Middle School is "going green," she is delighted. Saving the Earth is very important to Sam, plus, she knows she can get a great story out of it. But that's before she finds out one of the environmentally friendly suggestions is to stop printing The Cherry Valley Voice! Who would dare to suggest that the school newspaper be published only online? When she discovers the idea came from her BFF, Hailey, Sam gets even more upset. How will Dear Know-It-All solve this total disagreement?
 

Princess Posey and the First Grade Boys, by Stephanie Greene

Posey gets in trouble when she makes up a not-so-nice song about one of the boys in her class.
 

Trick Out My School!, by Robin Mellom

The school face-lift that overachieving seventh-grade class-president Libby scores from the highest-rated school makeover reality show on TV brings host Kip Hottie McHotster Lee and a second camera crew to Westside Middle School (already the setting for an ongoing reality show). It also opens multiple cans of worms for Libby with the discovery that beneath the razzle-dazzle, the makeover is largely a sham. As in previous episodes of The Classroom, the on-camera conceit is readily abandoned for a lively mixture of inner ruminations and chapters of third-person narrative. More light school comedy, with frequent cartoon head shots, notebook pages, and illustrated high spots
 

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl, by Stacy McAnulty

A lightning strike made Lucy, 12, a math genius but, after years of homeschooling, her grandmother enrolls her in middle school and she learns that life is more than numbers.
 

The Perfect Secret, by Rob Buyea

Gavin, Randi, Scott, Trevor and Natalie are back for seventh grade, and they have a big goal for the year: to get their teachers Mrs. Magenta and Mrs. Woods to mend their broken relationship. Although the five friends have discovered their teachers' secret, that they are mother and daughter, this won't be the only secret the kids find themselves keeping over the course of the school year. First-person narration switches among the five protagonists, effectively giving insight into their own personal challenges and struggles as they work together to help their teachers. Buyea has carved out a niche with sensitive and heartfelt stories, and this companion to The Perfect Score (2017) has him tackling topics like racism, immigration, bullying, and family secrets, with a deft hand. Buyea's story always remains positive, and although the ending might be a bit too fairy tale-ish for some readers, it could provide a nice escape for readers dealing with these issues of their own. Another winner from Buyea that is highly recommended for all middle-grade readers.

PICTURE BOOKS AND EASY READERS

Edda, a Little Valkyrie’s First Day of School, by Adam Auerbach

Adjusting to the rhythms and rules of school can be tough for any kid, but imagine how much of a challenge it is for a young Norse warrior maiden. Edda wants to spend time with people her own age, which is why she asks her kindly papa (though he's never named, with his eye-patch, it's safe to assume he's Odin) to fly her from Asgard to a typical neighborhood elementary school. But making the transition from helping "search the land for unruly monsters" to sitting still in class and waiting in line for the slide is asking a lot. Auerbach-an accomplished editorial artist with an approachable line drawing style and a sly, sympathetic wit-makes a terrific children's book debut in this folklore-meets-first-day story. He doesn't get too specific with his

Norse inspirations (Edda's magical home is as much Adventure Time as Asgard), but Edda is a fresh, funny twist on the kid who can't quite find a groove. While most readers won't have access to a dragon to help smooth the way for themselves, they should find her story encouraging.
 

Chu’s First Day of School, by Neil Gaiman

First introduced in Chu's Day (HarperCollins, 2012), the adorable, rotund little panda with the big sneeze here takes on a big milestone: his first day at school. Initially nervous and subdued as he watches his classmates discuss their special talents, Chu soon realizes that he, too, has something unique to share with his new friends and teacher. Once again, Rex's rich, painterly illustrations, characterized by deep, vibrant hues and rendered in oil and mixed media on board, dominate this quirky work. The contrast between the more serious tone of the images and the chaos introduced by Chu's famous sneeze, brought on by a dusty chalkboard, will delight children. Though the topic is familiar-a bad case of nerves before the first day is well-trod territory-and the story itself is on the spare side, readers will enjoy this humorous take on the subject. As with the first book, there's plenty of detail in the artwork, and children will love the appealing animals depicted: eagles, snakes, monkeys, and more. A charming title that is sure to leave kids wanting more-more Chu and more readings of this whimsical tale.
 

Teacher’s Pets, by Stephanie Calmenson

The girls are dismayed when their teacher is out sick and they have a substitute. Mr. Z makes goofy jokes and can't keep the class under control. Worst of all, he doesn't say anything when mean Darlene makes fun of Kate and Lucie. Luckily, once the girls turn into dogs, Kate and Lucie learn they can save the day--and even make a new friend.

Desplácese hacia abajo para ver la versión en español

Welcome to Week Two of Summer Break: Read, Learn, Explore! We hope that your summer is off to a great start and you are recording all the time you have spent reading and learning. As a reminder, Summer Break began on June 7, 2021 and will run through August 14, 2021. You can log all your reading here.  

Looking for some reading suggestions? 

We all know that reading is important, but did you know that children and teens who do not read over the summer may experience 2-3 months of learning loss by the time school starts back in the fall? Reading is just as important for adults, as it keeps adult brains flexible and nimble. Plus, adults who read serve as great role models for kids. That is why the Library recommends at least 20 minutes of reading per day for everyone – of all ages – all summer long.

We know it can be hard to come up with a great list of books to read, so Library staff are here to help! We have created new lists for summer 2021 for kids, teens and adults so you can keep your brains active. These recommended reading lists can be found on our website here. (After you register for an account or Sign In, select “Recommendations” in the menu on the top left.) This summer you can also sign-up to receive book recommendations though our Summer Break site. Keep reading and remember to record your time on your Summer Break account.

Here are a few examples of the many great reading recommendations available on our site:

Roar, Roar Dinosaur – Dino Books for Babies and Toddlers

These board books and e-books are filled with dinosaur stories for babies and toddlers.

Let’s Have FUN this Summer!

It's Summer and school is out! Don't be bored this summer. Whether you want to have fun outdoors, learn a new skill, create cool crafts or read stories about Summertime, you'll find something to keep you entertained!

Vacation Mode is On: New Summer Middle Grade Reads

Is your summer break finally here? If you're looking for a book to read by the pool, at the beach, in the car on your road trip, or just to read at home to stay out of the heat, here is a list of summer books that were published in 2020 and 2021! These books are meant for children grades 3-8 or ages 8-12. Many of these titles are available in multiple formats; click on the title for more information on availability.

If you’d like more help finding your next great read, staff at your local library can help with even more book recommendations. Also, check out NoveList Plus, an online resource dedicated to helping readers connect with a terrific title. Search your favorite title, genre, or author to find a read-alike, browse subject-specific lists, or try the appeal mixer and create a list of titles based on different book characteristics.

Exciting Programs

This summer, the library is hosting some wonderful programs online. Check out the available programming on the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library calendar.

Comments? Questions?

Are you having problems with the Summer Break 2021 website or your account? Do you have questions about the program? Do you have a wonderful story about the library and Summer Break? Feel free to chat with us online, call your local branch or email us at [email protected] for help or feedback. 

The 2021 Summer Break program is brought to you by Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. Additional support comes from Wendy’s and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation with Spanish translations sponsored by Norsan Media.

Bienvenido a la semana 2 del programa de vacaciones de verano

Bienvenido a la semana 2 del programa de vacaciones de verano: ¡leer, aprender y explorar! Esperamos que este verano haya comenzado muy bien, y que estés registrando todo el tiempo que pasas leyendo y aprendiendo. Como recordatorio, el programa de vacaciones de verano comenzó el 7 de junio de 2021 y se extenderá hasta el 14 de agosto de 2021. Puedes registrar todo lo que lees aquí. 

¿Buscas algunas sugerencias de lectura? 

Todos sabemos que leer es importante, pero ¿sabías que los niños y los adolescentes que no leen durante el verano pueden perder entre 2 y 3 meses de aprendizaje para el momento en el que la escuela vuelva a comenzar en otoño? Leer es igual de importante para los adultos, ya que les mantiene el cerebro flexible y ágil. Además, los adultos que leen son un gran ejemplo para los niños. Es por eso que la biblioteca recomienda al menos 20 minutos de lectura por día para todos (de todas las edades) durante todo el verano.

Sabemos que puede ser difícil armar una gran lista de libros para leer, ¡por eso el personal de la biblioteca está para ayudarte! Hemos creado nuevas listas para el verano de 2021 para que niños, adolescentes y adultos puedan mantener sus cerebros activos. Estas listas de libros recomendados se pueden encontrar en nuestro sitio web en aquí (después de inscribirte o de ingresar, selecciona “Recomendaciones” en el menú de arriba a la izquierda). Este verano también puedes registrarte para recibir recomendaciones de libros a través de nuestro sitio del programa de vacaciones de verano. Sigue leyendo y recuerda registrar el tiempo en tu cuenta del programa de vacaciones de verano.

Estos son algunos ejemplos de las tantas recomendaciones excelentes de lectura que hay disponibles en nuestro sitio:

“Roar, Roar Dinosaur” – libros de dinosaurios para bebés y niños pequeños

Estos libros de cartón y libros electrónicos están llenos de historias de dinosaurios para bebés y niños pequeños.

¡A DIVERTIRNOS este verano!

¡Es verano, y la escuela terminó! No te aburras este verano. Ya sea que quieras divertirte al aire libre, aprender una nueva habilidad, hacer geniales manualidades o leer historias sobre el verano, ¡encontrarás algo que te mantendrá entretenido!

Ya estamos en modo “vacaciones”: nuevos libros de verano para alumnos de escuela media

¿Ya llegó tu receso de verano? Si estás buscando un libro para leer junto a la piscina, en la playa, en el auto mientras viajas por carretera o solo para leer en casa y resguardarte del calor, ¡esta es una lista de libros de verano que se publicaron en 2020 y 2021! Estos libros son para niños de 3.° a 8.° grado o de 8 a 12 años de edad. Muchos de estos títulos están disponibles en varios formatos; haz clic en el título para saber si está disponible.

Si quisieras más ayuda para encontrar tu próximo gran libro, el personal de tu biblioteca local puede ayudarte con aún más recomendaciones. Además, echa un vistazo a NoveList Plus, un recurso en línea dedicado a ayudar a vincular a los lectores con un título genial. Busca tu título, género o autor favorito para encontrar un libro similar; explora listas de temas; o prueba el mezclador de gustos y crea una lista de títulos que se base en las características de diferentes libros.

Programas emocionantes

Este verano, la biblioteca tiene unos fascinantes programas en línea. Echa un vistazo a la programación disponible en el calendario de la biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg.

¿Tienes comentarios o preguntas?

¿Tienes problemas con el sitio web del programa de vacaciones de verano 2021 o tu cuenta? ¿Tienes preguntas sobre el programa? ¿Tienes una fascinante historia sobre la biblioteca y el receso de verano? No dudes en chatear con nosotros en línea, llamar a tu sucursal local o enviarnos un correo electrónico a [email protected] para recibir ayuda o comentarios. 

El programa de vacaciones de verano 2021 llega a ti gracias a la biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg. Contamos con respaldo adicional de Wendy’s y de la fundación de la biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg, con traducciones al español patrocinados por Norsan Media.

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This blog was written by Whitney Lebron, Summer Break team member for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

NOTE: This blog was updated Friday, September 24, 2021 to include updates to branch hours of operations.

Find a book, have a seat and enjoy your time at the Library. Beginning Tuesday, June 1, 2021, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library customers can do just that at their local Library location. Just two weeks after re-opening material/book returns to cheers and applause from the public, the Library will further expand services and move to Level 3 of its multilevel re-opening plan

New services

Level 3 services include customer access to limited seating, expanded computer time for adults and children (by in-person appointment at designated branches), self-serve copier/scanner services and appointment-only access to the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room. Teen customers can also return to the Teen Loft at ImaginOn located at 300 E 7^th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.

Note: Occupancy limits are in effect at all Library locations. Limits vary by branch. Please contact your local Library location directly for capacity information. Click here to find a branch.

Additionally, the Library is thrilled to re-open the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room, a popular and critical community resource, which closed to in-person visitors in March 2020. Located in Main Library, the Carolina Room houses historical and current information on Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and North Carolina. It also contains genealogical resources from all 50 states in print and online. To date, the Carolina Room is the largest collection of family history materials in a North Carolina public library.

Customers are permitted to book a maximum two, sixty-minute appointments per day in the Carolina Room. To read safety rules, policies and find directions for making an appointment, click here and select “Schedule Appointment” on the same page. For those who aren’t ready to return to the Carolina Room at this time, staff continue to provide virtual reference services including the limited copying of books and other materials (magazines, microfilm, maps, etc.) Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

For virtual assistance, customers can email [email protected] or call (704) 416-0150 during normal operating hours.

Continued services

Customers may continue to pick up holds, enjoy in-person browsing of books and materials, and can return materials to material/book drops during or outside of branch hours of operations. Note: Material/book returns are closed during closures for holidays, renovations, inclement weather, etc. Returns will be closed on the evening of the last business day before a holiday.

Access to digital resources and participation in the Library’s many programs, events, services and more for children, teens, adults, Outreach and the Job Help Center remain available in online and virtual formats.

To find information about the Library’s exciting programs and events, please visit the Library calendar here.

Branch requirements (Updated August 21, 2021)

Face coverings are REQUIRED in Library branches. Beginning Tuesday, August 17, 2021, in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, face coverings must be appropriately worn by Library visitors, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.  We serve everyone in our community, even the most vulnerable populations, and consideration for the safety of all is imperative.

Face coverings do not need to be worn by someone who:  

• Should not wear a face covering due to any medical or behavioral condition or disability (including, but not limited to, any person who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious or incapacitated, or is otherwise unable to put on or remove the Face Covering without assistance);   
• Is actively eating or drinking;  
• Is seeking to communicate with someone who is hearing-impaired in a way that requires the mouth to be visible;  
• Is giving a speech or performance for a broadcast, or to an audience, where they maintain a distance of at least 20 feet from the audience (the audience is still required to wear a face covering if indoors);  
• Is temporarily removing their face coverings at work, as determined by local, state, or federal regulations or workplace safety guidelines;  
• Has found their face covering is impeding visibility to operate equipment or a vehicle.   
• Under 5 years of age.
• Medical exemptions apply; those with medical exemptions can wear a face shield if they choose.
• Face shields alone (without a face covering/mask) are not acceptable.  Customers can wear a face shield if they are also wearing an appropriately positioned face covering/mask.

Anyone who declines to wear a face covering for any of these exemptions will not be required to produce documentation or any other proof of a condition. Everyone is asked to tell the truth – and if they are healthy and able to wear a face covering – to wear a face covering so that they do not put other people at risk of serious illness and death.    

The Library continues to incorporate in-person services in a responsible way that focuses on safety. Follow us on social media or visit the Library’s blog at cmlibrary.org/blog for updated information on the continued re-opening of services.

The Library will continue to open under these operational hours:

Monday-Thursday - 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Friday and Saturday - 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday - closed at select branches (After the Labor Day holiday on September 6, 2021, all regional Library locations will be open on Sundays from 12-5 p.m. This includes the following locations: Allegra Westbrooks Regional - Beatties Ford Road, ImaginOn,  Independence Regional, Main Library, North County Regional,  South County Regional, SouthPark Regional and University City Regional.)

Here’s what’s available during Level 3 services*:

• Managed maximum number of customers in a branch at a time
• Use of social distancing safety markers
• Ability to browse for materials
• Option to use computers for expanded times (through in-branch reservation only) at branch locations EXCEPT Cornelius, Davidson and ImaginOn Libraries
• Streamlined self-checkout designed for quick in-and-out and safe, socially-distanced interactions.
• Mobile printing is available for pickup from the branch. Learn more here.
• Wi-Fi access is available outside the facility 24/7
• Free mobile hotspots are available for customers to place on hold for checkout for seven (7) days at a time
• Materials and holds available for pickup inside the branches.
• All checkouts are self-checkouts. You can scan your card (physical or on the app) and the materials. You will not need to enter your pin.
• All material/book drops are open
• Programming continues online
• Seating is available
• Self-serve print/copier/scan services available. Fax capability is available as some branches. Please contact your branch directly.

*Services subject to change

Community and study rooms – Room reservations are unavailable until further notice.

Outreach programming – Continues online or virtual, as coordinated between our Outreach team and the organization.

Programming and events – All programs and events for children, teens, adults and the Job Help Center remain online in virtual formats. Check here for the weekly schedule or visit the Calendar page on our website. 

We’re here for you online or on the phone.
You can reach our online chat during regular operating hours at cmlibrary.org and click on Ask a Librarian. Our telephone reference team is also available during normal operating hours at (704) 416-0101, or you can contact your local branch location directly - visit the Branches page for more information.

Money Magnets, sponsored by Self-Help Credit Union, is a club for kid entrepreneurs that gives families opportunities to learn from local Black entrepreneurs. Our special guest entrepreneur this month is Steven L. Stack, who was a millionaire at age 31 and now works as a generational wealth strategist. He will be joined by his 8-year-old daughter, Nia, to share their experiences. They will focus on what building wealth means, no matter where you start, and how working well with the people around you can be a solid long-term way to plan.

Steven L. Stack, Financial Coach and CEFI  www.stevenlstack.com

This is the second program in a four-part series. It’s offered online from 6-7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 26. Registration is required. 

Register

KidPreneurs in training who attend three Money Magnets programs, complete a business plan, and pitch their business idea in a R.I.C.H. Circle receive $25 in seed funding for their business plus a $25 Youth Savings Account at Self-Help Credit Union.

Money Magnets One-on-One Strategy Session

These individual coaching sessions are an online follow-up program to The Business of Family Business. Sessions are offered by appointment only and are geared toward helping kidpreneurs-in-training get one-on-one assistance with fleshing out their business ideas and learning about specific resources. Strategy sessions are open to K-5 students and their responsible adults who attended The Business of Family Business.

This program is offered online on Saturday, June 5. Register for one 15-minute session that falls between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

register

Upcoming Session Topics

Each of these programs is followed by relevant One-on-One Strategy Sessions.

• The Business of Caring (6/30/2021) -- Guest entrepreneur is organic product developer, Ayesha Murphy.
• The Business of Launching (7/28/2021) -- Surprise guest entrepreneur.

How It All Began

Money Magnets was one of West Boulevard Library’s responses to the Chetty Study, which highlights conditions that make it difficult for Charlotteans who are born into poverty to transition out of poverty. Money Magnets disrupts poverty by providing resources for economic empowerment to kids and their responsible adults in areas most likely to be negatively affected by this trend.

Alexandra Arrington, LCMHCA, NCC, BC-TMH   AlexandraArrington.com

Money Magnets was piloted as a start-up social entrepreneurial effort during the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s observance of Money Smart Week in 2019. It’s a four-session online program facilitated by Alexandra Arrington, a former kid entrepreneur herself. Money Magnets teaches elementary schoolers and their families about financial literacy, community-mindedness, and character education within the framework of business ownership. Reinforcement of literacy and vocabulary, building social capital, and encouraging calculated risk are also included. Perhaps the greatest opportunities provided are networking with and being coached by successful local Black entrepreneurs and earning a modest amount of seed money to begin their businesses plus a $25 savings account from Self-Help Credit Union.

Another benefit of our focus on kids’ experience with these concepts is that their responsible adults are also involved and work with the student to support their learning, as well as reinforce their own understanding.

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This blog was written by Teresa Cain, librarian at West Boulevard Library.

Refugee Support Services (RSS) is a “501(c)3 nonprofit post-resettlement organization that helps newly-arrived refugees make Charlotte their new home.”

Each week Emily Little, outreach specialist for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, steps into the flag hall at Galilee Center where Refugee Support Services is located and is welcomed with smiles and nods, hellos and hugs. As she gets to the end of the hall, she stops at the “Love and Learn” room amidst cheers and shouts of, “Ms. Emily’s here!” Since 2015, Emily has visited the RSS “Love and Learn” program weekly to engage the children in storytime, read-alouds and early literacy extension activities. The children range in ages from two to four years old (often with some babies and lap sitters tagging along with the parents) and come from a wide range of countries such as Vietnam, Congo, Eritrea, Burma, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Iraq. There have been as many as 40 participants in storytime at once! The main goal during storytime is to give children and attending parents an immersive experience in English literacy practices. Emily and RSS Education Programs Coordinator, Anne Banks, have collaborated in presenting stories, crafts, songs and activities that follow a monthly theme. 

Over the years, the parents have received library cards from Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and have participated in children’s literacy workshops on site including Active Reading and Every Child Ready to Read. The opportunity to work not only with the children, but the parents as well, has helped make this program successful.

The past year brought about many challenges, but Library services continued. Ms. Anne says, “Since March 2020, Ms. Emily continues to bring her warmth, enthusiasm, and knowledge of children’s literacy to the Refugee Support Services program participants through weekly Zoom sessions. Refugee Support Services has greatly benefitted from a strong partnership with Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and their Outreach Specialist, Ms. Emily.” The children’s smiling faces and familiar voices provided a bright spot and some needed consistency in an otherwise unstable year.

At Refugee Support Services, an agency whose mission is to, “facilitate programs and intercultural relationships that promote refugee self-sufficiency and enrich our community” partnering with the Library just makes sense. The Library’s mission is to improve lives and build a stronger community — there’s no better way to do that than through partnering with RSS.

The partnership and collaboration between agencies like the Library and RSS is a perfect example of our promise Accessible and welcoming to all, our public library celebrates and supports the joy of reading and learning, fosters exploration and personal growth, and connects individuals to each other, the community and the world. In short, we help people think, “I can.”

When community agencies work together in collaboration for a common purpose, the shared motto then becomes “We can!”

Booklists to celebrate the Immigrant Experience

The Library also has curated several booklists that celebrate the immigrant experience for all ages. Check them out below and grab any of the selected titles:

Children's Picture Books on immigration

Children's Chapter Books on immigration

Teen Books on Immigration

Adult books on Immigration

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This blog was written by Emily Little, outreach specialist for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) Month is May and serves as a destined time to identify the historic and cultural achievements of this diverse population within the United States largely consisting of Chinese, Indian, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean and Japanese residents. The Library can help as it offers books, ebooks, streaming videos and more about this community. 

One way is through the library booklist specifically entitled for AAPI month with 32 titles for multiple ages. Another related booklist with 12 titles for adult readers is Asian American Authors to Celebrate Heritage Month.    

Access AAPI Month Booklist          Access AAPI Adult Booklist

This year, that observation takes a heightened alert as concerned individuals nationally and locally have drawn attention to the rise in instances of hate and violence directed towards Asian Americans. Tragically, these citizens are being accused and blamed by some for the outbreak of the coronavirus disease. 

On May 17, The Charlotte Observer published a guest editorial column from a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill student about the urgency to protect Asian Americans locally. The column also included signatures from a city county member, county commissioner and several officers of associations affiliated with the Indian, Chinese and Asian American communities. The article concluded with a charge to encourage Charlotteans to extend their “Southern hospitality” to protect and to share awareness about the rise of anti-Asian violence. 

Regrettably, that violence has occurred as reported in local news when an Asian grocery store owner was shot in east Charlotte by an assailant intent on inflicting bodily harm last month. On the national news scale, President Joe Biden signed the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act last Thursday, as a response to the growth of violence against Asian Americans related to the coronavirus pandemic. 

To delve further into the background of the AAPI community’s assimilation into the United States and, conversely, its bouts with periods of racism then look at the booklist entitled “Experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders” with newer titles from the Library collection.

Access Experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Booklist

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

What’s one more thing to add to your already hectic schedule that you have in your final year of high school or college? Partying and celebrating your forthcoming freedom from school is most likely at the top of that to-do list. But before you celebrate that freedom, consider this: an internship.

An internship is when a student works in an organization (paid or unpaid), which allows the student to gain valuable experience, learn new and valuable skills and develop priceless relationships. Internships can last for as little as three months (summer is coming) and as much as six months, so it doesn’t take up your whole final year of high school or college. Think about all the things you’ve learned as a student and the type of advantage having an internship will give you when you finally enter the workforce.

THE BENEFITS OF INTERNSHIPS

Having recognized the benefits of an internship and taken advantage of those opportunities, here are some great reasons to get an internship:

Gain Valuable Experience 

This is your opportunity to “try out” the job or career of your choice. You also gain skills that you can only learn on the job. Not only have you gained skills, but you’ve had the opportunity to demonstrate them. The individuals that you work with during your internship can vouch for your skills and experience.

Spruce up your resume

College is a great way to begin your career journey with clubs and organizations. Still, viable experience as an intern could turn the eye of many employers, creating an edge over others in the job market.

Develop Skills 

Your skillset is limited when you first finish school. An internship will help develop and enhance soft and hard skills. Today’s employers are just as interested in your soft or transferable skills as they are in the specific skills to the job.

Build Relevant Relationships 

Networking is a vital skill to have in the job market. The relationships that you build while interning is critical to your future success. Once you build those relationships, they, in turn, can set you up for success just based on the relationships that you’ve built.

Meet Your Mentor 

It would be best if you had direction, and one of the best ways to get that is to acquire a mentor. Many people meet their mentors in their internships. Mentors are experienced and trusted advisers — they are a part of that relationship-building you should be doing in your internship. Still, they work with you to ensure you are successful. Mentorship is not a one-way relationship. It requires giving and taking to be effective.

REACH OUT

So, did I spark an interest? Do you want to learn more about internships? Learning more about finding an internship is as easy as talking with your guidance counselor or visiting your college and career center. All the resources you need to get started are right there in the palm of your hands. The staff there are there to help you succeed in this aspect.  Your school may have partnered with large corporations and medium-sized businesses to offer internships to students just like you. 

When moving into the workforce soon after school, taking advantage of internships creates opportunities beyond the time spent during an internship. It’s not easy to get work right out of school, so the more experience you can gain to include in the work experience section of your resume, the better. Get a leg up on other students entering the workforce by obtaining vital skills that employers crave under your belt. Internships are not all fun and games, though. They are meant to test your ability to work a job and give you hands-on experience in the industry or field of your choice.

Internships test all the work you put in your classes by thrusting you into the reality of the job — giving you the chance to try out the job before you work the job. Now, take the first step into your future and sign up for an internship.

The Job Help Center at the Library can help with your college and career path and goals. From one-on-one resume reviews to mock interviews, the Job Help Center can help you find, apply and be ready to interview for that internship. See the calendar here.

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This blog was written and updated by De’Trice Fox, adult services librarian in the Main Library’s Job Help Center.

Let’s face it: the past year has been challenging for many reasons, but, for some, the lack of travel opportunities really put a damper on life. Now that the world is reopening, some stir-crazy feelings can be put to rest with exciting travel programs and helpful travel resources available at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. The only passport or ticket you need is your Library card! (Need a card? Get one here.)

Whether your next trip is mentally mapped out or planned to a “T,” let the Library provide fuel for the journey.

Consider your Library card a personal travel experience curator when you use it to:

1. Plan a trip – Use traditional guidebooks to help you navigate your next adventure. Complete with titles such as The Family Travel Handbook by Imogen Hall, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz and The Backpacker’s Bible by Suzanne King, you’ll be able to travel near, far, on or off the beaten path any day. (Library tip: Download the Hoopla app to access hundreds of recently published guidebooks, maps included, from well-known publishers such as Frommer’s and Fodor’s
    
2. Learn a new language – Parlez-vous français (Do you speak French?)? Do you want to? You can certainly learn with FREE access to Transparent Language. This culturally rich and effective learning resource is perfect for all skill levels. Transparent Language provides an engaging experience that helps learners build listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in over 110 languages. It also combines robust courses, supplemental vocabulary, extensive grammar resources and mobile apps for a complete language-learning experience.

If you prefer to learn a language in a group setting, the Library offers online conversation clubs that may pique your interest. With languages currently ranging from Arabic and English to Spanish and French. You may also meet likeminded travelers when you sign up for engaging conversation here.

1. Stay connected – You’ll likely document your travels and want to share them with family and friends along the way. If you’re unsure about the availability or the cost of internet access while you’re away, rent a Wi-Fi hotspot. Rentals are only available for use in the continental United States.
    
2. Travel by chair – Did you know the Library offers opportunities for you to explore faraway places without having to leave the comfort of your home? It’s true! Our online Armchair Travel programs provide customers a sensory experience and the chance to learn about exotic lands, important past events in a meaningful manner and much more. Armchair Travel programs are suitable for adults and teens ages 12-18. Click here to find your next adventure.

   If  solo-video travel is more your jam, escape to the sunny tropics or frigid Arctic by watching more than 220 travel videos on our video service, Kanopy. Kanopy is perfect because it has video options for children and adults.
    

3. Learn about culture and history – Learning the culture of the people and places you plan to visit is paramount. Luckily, your Library card gets you access to Universal Class where you can study the cultures of Japan, China, France, Spain and more. Click here to start learning.

If exploring culture is music to your ears, consider immersing yourself in the beats and sounds of desired travels. Find amazing Afrobeats, brilliant Brazilian sambas and bossa novas, or hear the gongs of Shanghai with a quick and FREE search in Freegal. Freegal offers download or streaming access to more than 10 million songs, including Sony Music’s catalog of legendary artists. Even better? Library customers get five (5) free downloads (songs are one download whereas videos count as two) and five (5) hours of streaming each week.

Now that you know some ways to travel the world with your Library card, the next question is: where will you go first?

Share your travels with us on our social media platforms (@cmlibrary on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) and tell us what you love by leaving a comment, tagging us or using the hashtag #cmlibrary.

Happy travels!

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This blog was written by Asha Ellison, marketing and communications specialist at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.