Children who know and use more words when they are very young learn to read more easily and have greater academic success than those who don't.

The following guidelines are meant to ensure that the Library is a safe and enjoyable environment for our customers and that the Library equipment and facilities are protected.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library recognizes its role as a source for community information. Because of space limitations, however, the Library must set limits and priorities for distribution or display of printed materials within the Library’s facilities.

It is the policy of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library to make internet resources available to its customers along with collections of print, non-print and electronic reference resources. The addition of internet resources provides access to information beyond that contained in the Library’s collections. Youth ages 11 and under cannot use an internet computer without the signature of a parent or guardian.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library will select and preserve, without bias or limitation on the right to know, a comprehensive collection of print, non-print and electronically accessed materials to meet the informational, educational, recreational and cultural needs of all citizens of Mecklenburg County.

Due to the wide variety in the number of workstations at each branch, availability of personal computers, software applications and advance reservations may vary. Check with each location for more information.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is committed to protecting the privacy of visitors to its websites. The following discloses our information gathering and dissemination practices:

Teacher Loan cards are a special privilege granted to educators and patrons who work for institutions and facilities that educate or care for children in Mecklenburg County.

You may go to any of our twenty branches to get a card. You will be required to show proof of residency (see below) before a card is issued. Or, if you are over 18 years of age, you may apply for a card online.

The Library has a wealth of tools and services that support educators and students during the school year. Encouraging children to read and use the library is the best thing you can do to help them to do better in school and continue learning throughout their lives.