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 10/5/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 10/5

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

Book a Librarian - Nonprofit Services – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

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

Parent Lunch & Learn: Using Library Resources to Enhance Your Child's Learning –  12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Mindful Mondays - Guided Relaxation and Meditation  –  12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

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

Book a Librarian – Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 4 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Stronger Together: Support for your Job Search – 4 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 5 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Tuesday 10/6         

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

Digital Literacy: Presentation Software: Designing with Canva – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

Book a Librarian - Nonprofit Services – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)    register

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

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

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

Virtual Reading Buddies – 12 p.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

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

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

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)  register

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

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

SAT, ACT, and Admissions in the Time of COVID – 6 p.m.  (Teen programming)  register

Sparking Creativity for Teens – 6 p.m.  (Teen programming)  register

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

Wednesday 10/7

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

Book a Librarian - Nonprofit Services – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get to Know the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Book a Librarian – Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Use Active Reading to Read Words – 2:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  register 

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 4 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 5 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)  register

Teens Live on Instagram: Bath Bombs – 5 p.m.  (Teen programming)   learn more

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

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

Thursday 10/8

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

Avoiding Covid-19 Scams & Fraud – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)  register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)  register

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

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

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

Friday 10/9

Family Storytime – 9:30 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 – 12 a.m. (Children's programming)   register

Mindful Friday- Meditation for Wellness – 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 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Saturday 10/10

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

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

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

STEAM Month is a monthlong celebration of science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics! The Library is proud to host events for children, teens and adults—everything from 3D printing, rookie science, coding, fossil digging and much more! These events spark interest and excitement in STEAM fields that last all year long. National STEAM Day is November 8, but we celebrate STEAM during the month of October to build enthusiasm and get everyone ready to join in on the fun!

Support engagement and learn more about STEAM with your children by exploring the great online resources below:  

• PebbleGo Science has information for children in grades K-3 on all types of science, engineering and technolog. Features include activities, critical thinking questions and videos with most articles. Also available in Spanish.

Access PebbleGo Science

• PowerKnowledge databases are great for kids in third through sixth grade; topics include earth and space science, physical science and life science; these databases are great for science project ideas!

Access PowerKnowledge Physical Science

Access PowerKnowledge Life Science

Access PowerKnowledge Earth and Space Science

We also have the following booklists with additional resources:

• STEAM reads for young kids 
• Little Explorers STEAM storytime
• Black Girls in STEAM
• STEM chapter books for elementary school
• STEAM books about music and technology 

You will also want to check out virtual STEAM programming for children this month! Visit our calendar at www.cmlibrary.org/calendar for a full list of STEAM programs for all ages and to register for the programs below. (Facebook Live storytimes do not require registration).

• STEAM Storytimes via Facebook Live (Monday-Saturday at 9:30 a.m.)
  
  • Join us virtually for a half hour of engaging stories, songs and music all about STEAM topics! Geared toward children ages 0-5 and featuring information about colors, the human body, math, art, engineering and more.
• Davidson Branch Story Explorers STEAM Spooky Science (Monday, October 5 at 4 p.m.)
  
  • Join us virtually as we explore spooky experiments.
• University City Branch Creating with Books (Tuesday, October 13 at 11 a.m.)
  
  • Make mini parachutes to launch.
• ImaginOn Rookie Science Amazing Colors (Tuesday, October 20 at 2 p.m.)
  
  • Join us virtually as we demonstrate many unique colorful experiments that are as dazzling to the eye as they are easy to do at home.
• Mint Hill Puppet Show (Wednesday, October 21 at 7 p.m.)
  
  • Join us virtually for a special STEAM puppet show.
• South Boulevard STEAM Month Magic Bag (Tuesday, October 27 at 6:30 p.m.)
  
  • Join us virtually to participate in a fun science experiment! Can you push a pencil through a bag filled with water without spilling a drop? To participate in the hands-on portion of this program you will need a plastic baggie and sharp pencils.

We also have 19 STEAM programs for teens during October. View a complete list of teen STEAM programming here.

--

This blog was written by Jesse Isley of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Come one, come all to the greatest discussion on earth! This one is flipping lives upside down.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room (RSCR) invites you to participate in a virtual discussion on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at 2 p.m. with author Libby Copeland to explore the culture of genealogy, and the science and business of DNA testing as the topic of her new book, The Lost Family: How DNA Testing is Upending Who We Are.

The Lost Family traces the journey of one woman, her unusual DNA test results, and a relentless, methodical drive for answers that becomes a modern genetic detective story. Additionally, Copeland’s new book investigates how home DNA testing impacts communities including adoptees, the donor-conceived and those who didn't start out with questions about their families – but now have questions based on their home-testing DNA discoveries. You don’t want to miss out on this exciting conversation!

Called “an entertaining and impressively comprehensive field guide to the rapidly evolving world of genetic testing,” by The Washington Post and “a fascinating account of lives dramatically affected by genetic sleuthing,” by The Wall Street Journal, Copeland’s The Lost Family is sure to be your next favorite read. “The Lost Family: How DNA Testing is Upending Who We Are” event is hosted online through Zoom by RSCR Librarian Shelia Bumgarner and is recommend for everyone ages 16-100.

Click here to register for this event.

How to join an online program
This event takes place on Zoom. Please register by 4 p.m., October 12, which is one day before the event. You’ll receive an email with a link to the secure Zoom meeting about 24 hours before the meeting.

New to using Zoom? Check out these resources to help you get started.

Early voting will start October 15, 2020 through October 31, 2020. There are 33 early voting locations, which include these four Libraries:

• Allegra Westbrooks Regional (Beatties Ford Road) – 2412 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216
• Mountain Island Library - 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way, Charlotte, NC 28214
• North County Regional Library - 16500 Holly Crest Lane, Huntersville, NC 28078
• West Boulevard Library - 2157 West Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28208

Voting hours will vary. For all 33 early voting locations and voting hours, please click here. 

The deadline to register in-person to vote is Friday, October 9, 2020. After the regular voter registration deadline of Friday, October 9, 2020, you can same-day register and vote at any of the early voting locations during the early voting period. This process is known as same-day registration. Same-day registrants must attest to their eligibility and provide proof of residence.

Looking for voting resources? The Library’s Engage 2020 has put together information here.

For more information, please visit the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections website 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 10/12/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 10/12

Library Closed- Staff Day

Tuesday 10/13         

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

History's Mysteries: What Time Is It? – 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

The Lost Family: How DNA Testing Is Upending Who We Are – 2 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

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

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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

SAT vs ACT: Which Test to Take with The Princeton Review – 5 p.m.  (Teen programming)  register

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

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

True Crime Podcast Discussion Club – 7 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

Wednesday 10/14

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book a Librarian – Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Caregiver Class: Comprehension Strategies for Upper Elementary Learners – 2:30 p.m. (Adult programming) register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 4 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 5 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Teens Live on Instagram: Beeswax Candles for STEAM Month – 5 p.m.  (Teen programming)   learn more

Planning for College with Johnson & Wales – 6 p.m.  (Teen programming)   register

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

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

Thursday 10/15

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book a Librarian - Technology – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 4 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 5 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Virtual Reading Buddies – 5 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Caregiver Class: Active Reading Training for Caregivers of 2-5 Year old's – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

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

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

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

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

Friday 10/16

Family Storytime – 9:30 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 – 12 a.m. (Children's programming)    register

Mindful Friday- Meditation for Wellness – 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 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

STEAM 101: How We Got to Now – 3 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

Saturday 10/17

ACT Practice Test with The Princeton Review – 9 a.m.  (Teen programming)  register

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

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

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

Recycle Right – 11 a.m.  (Adult programming)   register

Bullet Journal Group – 2 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

Social Justice Book Club – 2 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

Welcome to Week 3 of our Summer Break challenge: Summer Break: At Home! Did you know that people of all ages can participate in the Summer Break program? We hope that all the members of your family are having a great time participating and logging reading time and activities. Summer Break: At Home will run until June 30. Our next challenge Summer Break: Reading Takes You Everywhere starts July 1. If you have any questions about Summer Break, check out how the program works and sign up here. 

If you’re looking for even more fun learning activities to do this summer we have lots of suggestions! Check out our Digital Branch, Read Charlotte’s Reading Checkup, or our virtual programs. 

Digital Branch  

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but if you are ready to beat the heat, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has you covered. Stay in the cool air conditioning and access our digital branch any time! Available 24/7 here, the Digital Branch has a variety of offerings for all ages. Find fabulous reads, literacy extension activities, and Active Reading tips on the Storytime Train. Or tune in and try out one of our four podcasts. You can also view library programs or learn about library resources. The Digital Branch has something for everyone to enjoy, no matter the time or location! 

Reading Checkup with Read Charlotte 

Curious about your child’s reading level? It’s time for a Reading Checkup! Visit Read Charlotte’s new page for more information. This assessment tool is quick and completely free and will provide you with resources and activities specifically geared for your child’s reading level.  

Once you find or know your child’s reading level, you can find targeted activities here. Within these activities, you can tailor them to whether you can assist your child or your child can do it on their own. You can also adapt them to your child’s personality, interests, and behaviors.  

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

At Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, our mission is to improve lives and build a stronger community. Our staff focuses their work every day to accomplish this goal by providing the resources, spaces, information and materials to everyone in our community. Everyone is welcome in our libraries.

In late spring 2020, people across the city, state, nation and world gather in large and small groups to protest the murder of George Floyd and the ongoing problem of systemic racism and injustice. Even though many may be feeling helpless, the Library is committed to providing resources and events, to facilitate conversations and to encourage all voices to be heard. Here is a brief listing of the materials that explore social injustice and race relations.

The Library participated in a conversation on race with WSOC on Thursday, June 11 where Outreach Leader Meryle Leonard discussed 2019 Community Read and our featured title, The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. You can view that show here. 

Print & Digital Resources

1. Reading List on Library Website/Catalogue:

• Black YA & LGBTQ
• Race and racial awareness for parents
• Black teens in America
• Movies to educate yourself on racial justice
• Board book featuring faces of color
• The Skin I’m In
• 24 race-related graphic novels
• Picture books featuring African American boys
• And many more.

Search and view all book lists here by searching “CMLibrary Suggests” and a keyword in the list search.

There are also curated anti-racism reading lists available through OverDrive.

1. Book Club Kits & Book Bundles
   
   • The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
   • Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson
   • Sorting Out the New South City by Thomas Hanchett
   • And more

Reserve a book club kit here.

1.  Podcasts
   
   • Dianne English — The Ties That Bind: On Life and Meaning
   • Charles Thomas — A More Beautiful World: On Life and Meaning

Find a podcast here.

Programming & Outreach Events

1. Book Clubs
   
   • Social Justice Book Club – The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin
   • Adult Book Club - How to Be Antiracist by Abram X. Kendi
   • Engage 2020
2. Learning Circles
3. Coffee & Conversation
4. Teen Summit: Boost for A Better Tomorrow
5. The Robinson Spangler Carolina Room
6. Black South Rising Watch Party and discussion
7. Let’s Talk Together (CBI)

Find an event here in the calendar page.

Your support allows Charlotte Mecklenburg Library to quickly respond to unplanned needs with timely and relevant resources. Please consider making a gift to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation to continue this important work.

One year ago, I attended my first pride festival, and it was one of the most transformative events I’ve ever attended in my life. I’m from a small town in South Carolina, and I was raised in a family of activists. Protesting and advocating for those that are facing injustices has always been a necessary way of life. The idea that if you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything is embedded in my soul. My love for the community has transcended into my work as a teen librarian.

Even though I'm from a small town, I did not know what it meant to be a part of a true community until I moved to Charlotte. And while advocating for marginalized groups is vital, it is just as important to celebrate and show love to everyone. Charlotte is a melting pot of different people and cultures. As a librarian, I've been able to learn so much about how we're all working together to make the community a stronger and inclusive place where we can all thrive.

My first pride festival also marked the 50^th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. On June 28, 1969, the New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn which was a popular gay club located in Greenwich Village in New York City. The raid led to a riot and many protests. This uprising was one of the leading factors in the gay rights movement in the United States. And I felt honored and privileged to walk through the parade with my colleagues.

As I reminisce about that day I am flooded with happy memories. From dancing in the street with my coworkers to learning about other organizations fighting to make Charlotte inclusive, all I can do is smile because love radiated the air. As a librarian, I acknowledge that there is still a lot of work to be done in the community, and I’m proud that I was able to stand with my sisters and brothers and show my pride. 

At Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, our mission is to improve lives and build a stronger community. Our staff focuses their work every day to accomplish this goal by providing the resources, spaces, information and materials to everyone in our community. Everyone is welcome in our libraries.

While the Charlotte Pride Parade is cancelled this year, here are some great resources and book lists to help celebrate the month:

• CMLibrary Suggests: Children Reads for Rainbow Book Month
• CMLibrary Suggests: Middle Grade Reads for Rainbow Book Month
• CMLibrary Suggests: Teen Reads for Rainbow Book Month
• CMLibrary Suggests: Rainbow Book Month Reads for Adults
   

Happy Pride and Rainbow Read Month!

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This blog was written by Cearra Harris with support from Laura Vallejo, both of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Kanopy has a vast array of independent films, documentaries, children’s movies and free access to the Great Courses. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library users streamed over seven thousand movies from Kanopy last month. There is something on Kanopy for the whole family.

Learn more about Kanopy and checkout limits here. Need a library card? Sign up here. 

Here are the top five movies streamed on Kanopy by Library users in the last thirty days:

• I Am Not Your Negro (2016) Oscar-nominated documentary narrated by Samuel L Jackson that explores the continued peril America faces from institutionalized racism. Run time: 94 minutes
   
• Lady Bird (2017) Directed by Greta Gerwig and nominated for five Oscars, Lady Bird is a warm, affecting comedy about a high schooler (Saoirse Ronan) who must navigate a loving but turbulent relationship with her strong-willed mother (Laurie Metcalf) over the course of her eventful and poignant senior year of high school. Rated R. Run time: 94 minutes
   
• Race – The Power of an Illusion (2003) The first episode in a series that challenges our commonsense assumptions that human beings can be bundled into three or four fundamentally different groups according to their physical traits.  Run time: 58 minutes
   
• Black Orpheus (1959) Camus’ Black Orpheus brings the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice to twentieth-century madness of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. Run time: 108 minutes
   
• What We Do in the Shadows (2014) Housemates Viago, Deacon and Vladislav are three vampires who are trying to get by in a modern society; from paying rent and doing housework to trying to get invited to nightclubs.  Rated R. Run time: 86minutes

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