Thank you to all of those who participated in the 2024 Summer Break Challenge.
Queen Charlotte collected her prizes while being stylish as ever. Have you collected your prizes?! Please collect any earned prizes by Saturday, August 17th, at your local branch location. Remember, all incentives are available while supplies last. Charlotte Football Club winners will be selected by a drawing. Winners will be notified by email between August 1 and 2.
As of July 31st, you all have accomplished the following:
Minutes Read - 9,543,228
Activities Logged - 66,899
Total Accounts - 12,479
Earned badges - 148,538
The Summer Break Team hopes you enjoyed reading more and participating in different activities. We look forward to reading with you next year!
Comics Plus provides unlimited, simultaneous access to thousands of digital comics, graphic novels, and manga for all ages. In addition to the full library, we also have a separate Children's Library and Teen Library collection. A library card and PIN is required for in library and remote use. Access Comics Plus in your browser or download the mobile app.
Getting Started with Comics Plus All Access
Watch this video for an introduction to Comics Plus.
Comics Plus Children's Library offers unlimited, simultaneous use to comics, graphic novels, and manga. The Children's Library includes access to early readers, picture books, and series like Adventure Time, Bone, Minecraft, and the Big Nate. Content in this collection will contain story intensity, action, and violence equivalent to typical G or PG rated movies. Recommended for ages preK-10. A library card and PIN is required for in library and remote use. Access Comics Plus by clicking Access Now or download the mobile app.
Getting Started with Comics Plus Children’s Library
Watch this video for an introduction to Comics Plus.
Comics Plus Teen Library provides unlimited, simultaneous access to thousands of digital comics, graphic novels, and manga in all genres especially for teens. Content in this collection will contain story intensity, action, and violence equivalent to a typical PG-13 rated movie. Recommended for ages 11-18. A library card and PIN are required for in library and remote use. Access Comics Plus by clicking Access Now or download the mobile app.
Getting Started with Comics Plus Teen Library
Watch this video for an introduction to Comics Plus.
All titles are available 24/7 for online and offline reading. An internet connection is required to browse and check out titles. You can download titles for offline reading via the Comics Plus app.
This blog was written by Darrell Anderson, marketing and communications specialist for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.
September is Library Card Sign-up Month, and it's the perfect time to get a card of your own. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers millions of resources including books, music, movies, creative materials, digital resources and programs (in-person and online) – all for FREE with a Library card. Check out just a small sampling of all the Library has to offer:
A Library card is more than just a card; it's a gateway to endless opportunities for your child's growth and development. With a Library card, your child gains access to a world where every book offers a new adventure, a fresh perspective, and a chance to explore diverse subjects. The Library provides an incredible range of resources beyond just books, including digital tools like Tutor.com, which offers online tutoring and homework assistance tailored specifically for school-age children and teens. This can be a game-changer in helping them understand challenging subjects and succeed academically.
Additionally, our Student Success Centers and school-age programming offer in-person support, providing a nurturing environment where children can receive guidance and assistance on their educational journey. Although you don’t need a Library card to access these in-person resources, having one can enhance the experience and provide even more opportunities for learning and exploration. So why wait? Get a library card today and open the door to a universe of knowledge and imagination for your child. Let their creativity flourish and their curiosity lead the way!
The Library is a tremendous one-stop shop, not just for books but for digital resources and so much more. Maybe you want to perfect an existing skill - or learn a new one - with Universal Class or learn a new language with Transparent Language. Film buffs can benefit from a Library card, too. With the Kanopy, Libby and hoopla and apps – again, available for FREE with a Library card – you can stream or download new and classic films and documentaries. Whether it’s resources for that work project or the latest trending BookTok read, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has exactly what you’re looking for.
For those that speak English as a second language, the Library has a rich collection of materials and resources in several world languages including Arabic, Chinese (traditional and simplified), French, German, American Sign Language and more. By far, the Library offers more Spanish materials than others (nearly 22,000 print books alone) to match the community’s needs. OverDrive/Libby, one of the Library’s digital platforms, has a Spanish collection that is frequently updated with new titles. Additionally, we have several bilingual staff members across the system as well as digital translation tablets available at all Library locations for more individualized assistance. Our friendly staff is here to make you feel comfortable and welcomed into our branches no matter what language you speak.
Are you curious about how much money a Library card can really save you? $100? $300? Even up to $1,000! Subscription services can be pricey and tend to add up over the course of a calendar year, not to mention how much you might spend on books, magazines and music. There’s no need to pay for subscription services ever again. See how much you can save with the Library by using the Library Value Calculator. Input the number of books, magazines, DVDs, music and resources you’ve purchased or used in a year, and you’ll be amazed at how much you could save by switching to the Library. The numbers don’t lie; a Library card is a great value!
Signing up for a Library card is easy and anybody can do it. Sign up for a Library card online or stop by your local branch and download the CMLibrary mobile app on your tablet or smartphone. Use the app to place holds, access resources and much more.
So, now that you know everything you can do with your Library card, what are you waiting for? Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and get your Library card today!
September 3, 2024
This blog was written by Lonna Vines, branch manager at the Myers Park branch of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.
Welcome to Charlotte! Whether new to the city or new to the United States, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is thrilled to welcome newcomers to the Queen City.
Charlotte proudly holds the Certified Welcoming designation from Welcoming America, a recognition granted to cities and counties that demonstrate a strong commitment to immigrant inclusion. As of 2024, Charlotte is one of only 24 cities and counties in the United States to receive this honor. The Library recognizes the crucial role that new residents play in enriching the city’s neighborhoods and encourages them to get involved and stay connected with the community.
One of the Library’s key initiatives is WelcomeCLT, which aims to assist new residents—particularly international newcomers—with information and resources to help them navigate their new environment. The WelcomeCLT website offers a variety of resources, including useful links, videos, and information. For additional support, the WelcomeCLT Libguide provides further resources. Each library branch features a WelcomeCLT kiosk, stocked with flyers and brochures about local resources. Additionally, library branches offer materials in 16 different languages.
Welcoming Week: September 13 – 22, 2024
To celebrate Welcoming Week, a period dedicated to fostering community connections and celebrating inclusivity, the Library will host several events. For more details or to register for these events, visit the Library Events page:
Arabic Alphabet Learning Circle
First Class - Thursday, September 5 at 6:15pm
University City Regional
For Teens, Adults
Uncover the beauty of this script and gain a new perspective on the world of language. Over the course of five classes held every other week, participants aged 12 and up will delve into the fundamentals of the Arabic script, unraveling the mysteries of the Arabic Alphabet. Dive into the basics of the Arabic alphabet, exploring the unique shapes and sounds of each letter.
Tacos to Tamales: Exploring Latin American Culinary Traditions
Pineville Branch
For Adults
Friday, September 13 at 11 am
Join us as author Sandra A. Gutierrez discusses Latin American cuisine. Sandra A. Gutierrez is a journalist, food writer and historian, professional cooking instructor, and author of several cookbooks. She will present on her writing process as well as provide insight into culture awareness reflected in the foods she shares in her books. Food will also be available from a local vendor to celebrate Latin American cuisine and a selection of Sandra’s books will be available for purchase at the event.
From Immigrant to Icon: Cultural Integration and the Power of Resilience
Saturday, September 14 at 3 pm
Matthews Branch
For Adults
Please join Aleksandra Degernes, President of the Eastern European Business Network CLT (EEBN), for her inspirational story of her immigrant experience and professional journey in the U.S. Aleksandra’s journey from newcomer to community leader showcases her determination and passion for helping others achieve their American dream. Today, the Eastern European Business Network is a hub of new connections, innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired and learn how you can be part of this dynamic community!
La Loteria
Tuesday, September 17 at 6 pm
South Boulevard Branch
For Preteens and Teens
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and Welcoming Week! Grab your friends and play the traditional Mexican game, Lotería. This game of chance is similar to bingo but uses images instead of numbers or letters. Please note that all players are expected to follow the Gaming Etiquette Guidelines.
International Tea Tasting
Wednesday, September 18 at 5 pm
Allegra Westbrooks Regional
For School Ages, Preteens, Teens and Adults
Celebrate Welcoming Week through tasting various teas and beverages from around the world. Light snacks will be served. Participants will also explore the library’s online resources to connect to their family’s cultural heritage. This interactive event is suitable for ages 5 and up.
Immigration 101
Thursday, September 19 at 5:30 pm
Independence Regional
For Adults
Join Immigration Attorney, Laura Waits from Eagan Immigration, for an informative session on Immigration 101. This event will provide valuable insight into the naturalization process, immigrant rights, and how to navigate common legal challenges faced by immigrants. This same event will be held at multiple locations, please check the library events page for additional information.
WelcomeCLT Beanstack Challenge: September 1-30, 2024
During September, the Library is hosting the WelcomeCLT Beanstack Challenge. Participants can earn a WelcomeCLT magnet and book by completing three activities from one of the following tracks: New Americans, New to Charlotte or Welcomers. Participants who complete three activities will be eligible for prizes, available at any Charlotte Mecklenburg Library location while supplies last.
Beginning Sept. 8, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library regional branches and ImaginOn will be open on Sundays at 1:00 p.m-5:00 p.m. Visit us to find a new read, use a computer, enjoy a program, and so much more! Find your nearest regional branch below.
Allegra Westbrooks
Independence
North County
South County
SouthPark
University City