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Find "Comunidad" at the Library during Hispanic Heritage Month

September 11, 2024

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    Este blog fue escrito por Darrell Anderson, especialista en marketing y comunicaciones de la biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg.


    ¿Sabía que los hispanoamericanos conforman el grupo de inmigrantes más grande de los EE. UU.? Tan solo en el condado de Mecklenburg, se calcula que un 15 % de la población, es decir, 169,922 residentes, se identifican como hispanos.


    Desde el 15 de septiembre hasta el 15 de octubre, las comunidades de todos los Estados Unidos honran sus historias, culturas y contribuciones ricas de hispanos y latinoamericanos durante el Mes de la Herencia Hispana (Hispanic Heritage Month). Este año, la biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg adhiere a este momento especial con una serie de eventos y programas participativos que demuestran la diversidad y la vivacidad de nuestra comunidad hispana.

     

    Un mes para celebrar la herencia y la cultura


    La biblioteca es mucho más que un lugar para pedir libros prestados: es un centro de conexión comunitaria y enriquecimiento cultural. Invitamos a la comunidad hispana a “encontrar la comunidad” (o “find community”), y les recordamos que todos son bienvenidos en nuestro lugar. La biblioteca Charlotte Mecklenburg asume el compromiso de servir a todos los miembros de la comunidad, lo que se pone de manifiesto con su personal bilingüe y que habla español. Conozca a algunos de ellos y compruebe por qué la comunidad es tan importante en su trabajo.

    Andrew Meyer
    Asistente de Biblioteca, Biblioteca Plaza Midwood:


    “Para mí, la comunidad significa ‘familia’. En la comunidad, tenemos un sentido de pertenencia y no nos sentimos juzgados por quiénes somos o por lo que hemos hecho en el pasado. Es una oportunidad de crecer y alcanzar todo nuestro potencial”.

    Patty Lyons
    Bibliotecaria, Biblioteca Mint Hill:


    “Para mí, la comunidad es un grupo de personas que viven en el mismo vecindario o que se rodean de quienes les dan un sentido de pertenencia. Aunque vivo en Cornelius, trabajo en la biblioteca de Mint Hill y creo que formo parte de la comunidad a la que sirvo”.

    Yuleyska Barron
    Gerente de Servicios de Acceso, Biblioteca Regional Independence:


    “Para mí, la comunidad implica un entorno en el que pueda crecer, adaptarme y compartir mi vida y mis intereses. Creo que la biblioteca es una parte importante de este proyecto porque somos la fuente de confianza para ofrecer todo tipo de recursos que pueden ayudar a las personas a mejorar su vida”.

    Cómo conectarse


    Si es un residente que habla español o conoce a alguien que podría beneficiarse de los servicios de biblioteca bilingüe, aquí se detalla cómo puede aprovechar al máximo lo que la CML tiene para ofrecer:


    • Visite la biblioteca: Visite cualquier sede de la biblioteca y pregunte por los miembros del personal que lo pueden ayudar en español. Contamos con varios miembros bilingües en todo el sistema, así como tabletas con traducción digital disponibles en todos los centros bibliotecarios para ofrecer una asistencia más personalizada. Nuestro amable personal está aquí para hacerlo sentir cómodo y bienvenido en nuestras sedes, sin importar qué idioma hable. Encuentre una sede cerca de usted aquí.


    • Asista a programas bilingües: Esté atento al calendario de eventos de la biblioteca para descubrir narraciones de cuentos, talleres y eventos culturales. Estos programas están diseñados para ser inclusivos e interesantes para las familias que hablan español. Consulte nuestros programas aquí.


    • Utilice los recursos en línea: Esta biblioteca ofrece muchos más materiales en español que otras (casi 22,000 libros impresos solamente) para satisfacer las necesidades de la comunidad. Explore los recursos digitales de la biblioteca, que incluyen libros, libros electrónicos y otros materiales en español. OverDrive/Libby, una de las plataformas digitales de la biblioteca, tiene una colección en español que se actualiza con frecuencia con nuevos títulos. Puede acceder aquí.


    Mientras nos reunimos a celebrar el Mes de la Herencia Hispana, honremos el pasado, abracemos el presente y miremos hacia un futuro enriquecido con las diversas voces e historias de nuestra comunidad. ¡Acompáñenos en la biblioteca y sea parte de esta celebración trascendental!

    English

     

     

    This blog was written by Darrell Anderson, marketing and communications specialist for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.


    Did you know that Hispanic Americans make up the largest immigrant group in the United States? In Mecklenburg County alone, an estimated 15% of the population, or 169,922 residents, identify as Hispanic according to recent census data.


    From September 15 to October 15, communities across the United States honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans during Hispanic Heritage Month. This year, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is embracing this special time with a series of engaging events and programs that showcase the diversity and vibrancy of our Hispanic community.


    A Month-Long Celebration of Heritage and Culture


    The Library is more than just a place to borrow books; it's a hub for community connection and cultural enrichment. We invite the Hispanic community to “encontrar comunidad” or “find community” and know that all are welcome within our doors. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has a commitment to serving all community members which is exemplified through its bilingual and Spanish-speaking staff. Meet just a few of them and learn why community is so important to their work:

    Andrew Meyer
    Library Assistant, Plaza Midwood Library:


    “For me, community means ‘family.’ Community is a place where you have a sense of belonging and don't feel judged for who you are or the things you have done in the past. It is an opportunity to grow and reach your full potential.”

    Patty Lyons
    Librarian, Mint Hill Library:


    “For me, community is a group of people who live in the same neighborhood or who are surrounded by those who give them a sense of belonging. Although I live in Cornelius, I work at the Mint Hill Library and feel like I am actually part of the same community I serve.”

    Yuleyska Barron
    Access Services Manager, Independence Regional Library:


    ‘For me, community means an environment where I can grow, adapt, and share my life and interests. I think the Library is an important part of this project because we are the go-to source for providing all of these resources that can help our clients improve their lives.”

    How to Connect


    If you’re a Spanish-speaking resident or know someone who would benefit from bilingual library services, here’s how you can make the most of what CML offers:

     

    Visit the Library: Drop by any Library branch and inquire about staff members who can assist you in Spanish. 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. Find a branch near you HERE.

     

    Attend Bilingual Programs: Keep an eye on the Library’s events calendar for upcoming bilingual storytimes, workshops, and cultural events. These programs are designed to be inclusive and engaging for Spanish-speaking families. View our programs HERE.

     

    Utilize Online Resources: By far, the Library offers more Spanish materials than others (nearly 22,000 print books alone) to match the community’s needs. Explore the library’s digital resources, which include Spanish-language books, e-books, and other materials. OverDrive/Libby, one of the Library’s digital platforms, has a Spanish collection that is frequently updated with new titles.
     

    As we come together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s honor the past, embrace the present, and look forward to a future enriched by the diverse voices and stories of our community. Join us at the Library and be a part of this meaningful celebration!

    2024 Summer Bookmark Contest for Children

    September 13, 2024

    This summer, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library hosted our first ever bookmark contest for children in grades K-5 to encourage reading, learning, and exploring while showcasing the creativity of our community. And you better believe it—y’all are creative! 


    We received over 800 bookmark entries—including ones from every library location as well as entries from outside of Mecklenburg County and even outside of North Carolina! Themes included everything from love of books and reading (which made our hearts so happy!) to nature, animals, positive messages, and beautiful patterns. We also got to see unique materials used to complete the challenge, with everything from watercolors, stickers, beads, and even playdough used in some of the designs!


    The depth and breadth of talent was so much that we changed course when it came to our winners. While we originally planned to select just 2 winners (one for grades K-2 and one for grades 3-5), it quickly became clear we needed a winner for each grade level. Our amazing summer Volunteens helped us narrow down selections and then voted on the winners at the end of the contest. The teen input was so valuable, and we appreciate their time and dedication to this project!


    We are thrilled to announce the winners below, and copies of each bookmark will be available to pick up in every library location while supplies last. A huge thank you to our community for your response to this contest, and CONGRATULATIONS to our winners.

    Image
    NC Kids Digital Library: Level Up
    Summary

    NC Kids Digital Library offers e-books, audiobooks, and Read-Alongs for readers grade 4 through grade 8.

    Details
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    E-Books
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    Behind the Vault Doors: The Rose Leary Love Papers

    March 12, 2025

    This blog post was originally written by Julie Zwetolitz, former Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room Intern, and edited and updated by Chauna Carr, RSCR Digital Production Librarian.


    Rose Leary Love was a teacher, poet, musician, and writer born in 1898 in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Charlotte, North Carolina’s Second Ward. A dedicated educator, she taught in both Greensboro and Charlotte public schools from 1925 to 1964. She also spent a year teaching in Indonesia while her husband, an instructor at Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University), participated in a technical assistance mission.

    Rose Leary Love, Rose Leary Love Papers, 1930-1994, Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room

    Love’s passion for reading and writing was deeply influenced by her parents, John and Nannie Leary. Her father was a lawyer, and her mother was a schoolteacher at Myers Street and Second Ward schools. Throughout her life, Love published numerous poems and songs and authored two children's books, Nebraska and His Granny and A Collection of Folklore. She also contributed to the North Carolina Teachers Record.

    Example of Rose Leary Love’s work, credited as song composer. From Rose Leary Love Papers, 1930-1994, Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room
    Poem by Rose Leary Love. From Rose Leary Love Papers, 1930-1994, Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room

    Her academic journey was equally impressive, as she attended Barber-Scotia Seminary, Johnson C. Smith University, Hampton Institute, and Columbia University.

    Rose Leary’s childhood home on Boundary Street

    Growing up in Brooklyn, Love’s family home was located near present-day Boundary Street and I-277. She described it as a “roomy and old-fashioned” house with a wrap-around porch, filled with children and a mother’s love. Bookshelves in their home overflowed with fiction, law, travel, history, religion, and music books. As a child, she attended Myers Street School, which now stands as the Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center.

     

    Love documented her childhood experiences in Brooklyn in her memoir, Plum Thickets and Field Daisies. After her passing in 1969, she left the original manuscript in the care of close friends. As Brooklyn changed and much of its history faded, the memoir’s historical significance grew. Recognizing its value, her friends donated it to the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room for archival preservation.

     

    Since then, Plum Thickets and Field Daisies has become a crucial resource for students, scholars, and authors, aiding in research papers, doctoral theses, and even a theatrical script. The warmth, humor, and vivid recollections in her writings highlighted the importance of sharing her memories with a wider audience. In 1996, the Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County published her memoir, ensuring her legacy would continue to inspire future generations. 

     

    Search her finding aid here: Rose Leary Love and make an appointment with the Carolina Room to research her collections. Visit our page here for more resources.

    Community Read: Chinese Art in Conversation

    March 31, 2025

    Not quite ready say goodbye to March - or our Community Read? Still have more questions about art, Chinese culture, or museums?

     

    Take a look at our panel, which featured two experts on Chinese art in conversation with Anselm Smith, an Adult Services Library Associate at the Cornelius branch. The conversation touched on the history of the Zodiac heads that featured so prominently in the novel, the differences between Chinese and Western art, the tension between "regional" and "national" in Chinese art practices, the ideal museum, and more. 

    Additionally, here are some further recommendations from our panelists:  

     

    Dr. Ruiying Gao recommended Peter Hessler's Other Rivers: A Chinese Education, which has insight into the lives of two generations of Chinese students.

     

    She's also looking forward to the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts’ exhibition of Japanese National Art Treasures. In particular, she's excited about Letter of Distress and Indignation, a calligraphy piece associated with Wang Xizhi (303-361), who is regarded as the greatest calligrapher in China. This specific piece was likely collected by the Japanese imperial house as early as the 8th century.

     

    Dr. Yukina Zhang is a fan of LuYang's work, citing LuYang's play with gender, Traditional Chinese Medicine, spirituality, and the video games, anime, and manga subculture of the 1990s.

     

    She also recommends the work of Lara Jaishree Netting. Her book, A Perpetual Fire: John C. Ferguson and His Quest for Chinese Art and Culture, looks at the life of an American collector of Chinese art who was discussed during the panel discussion and who serves as a model for Chinese-American friendship and appreciation.

     

    For those in the area interested in Chinese bronzes, there will be a lecture by Dr. Pengliang Lu, Brooke Russell Astor Curator of Chinese Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, at Davidson College on Thursday, April 10, from 6:30 - 7:30.

     

    See the flyer for more information! 

    National Library Week 2025

    April 7, 2025

    National Library Week (NLW) is organized by the American Library Association (ALA) as "an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities." It is from April 6 to April 12.

     

    We have prepared a series of images that highlight a few things that the Library offers the community!

    Be sure to follow CML on social media and join the conversation by using the hashtag #NationalLibraryWeek

    Summer VolunTeen Applications Opening Soon - Apply Today

    April 15, 2025

    Looking to earn community service hours this summer as a teen volunteer? Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is looking for responsible teens (ages 13-17) who enjoy working with the public, helping others, and giving back to their community. Applications open today, April 15th, at 3:30pm, which is when teens will be able to view available opportunities and apply. Applications will be accepted until the end of the month or until a branch reaches capacity. 

     

    If you do not see a position posted for your preferred location, then a position is no longer available, and you will need to apply to another location. While there are a limited number of opportunities, almost all locations are participating in this program. Teens may only apply to one location per semester. Please note that applying does not guarantee a position. 

     

    After you apply, someone from the library will contact you to set up an interview if you meet qualifications. If you wish to inquire about your application, please reach out to the branch where you applied to follow up. Please apply on the Volunteer page. Click on Become a Volunteer and search for “Summer VolunTeen” opportunities. 

     

    Still have questions? Check our VolunTeen FAQs for more details! We look forward to seeing your application soon! 

    Celebrate National Volunteer Week April 20-26, 2025 with the Library

    April 16, 2025

    This blog was written by Chauna Wall, Volunteer Coordinator for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

     

    Volunteering is vital, an essential workforce to a community’s wellbeing. So many local and national programs from education to disaster relief to the arts are underpinned by the contributions of volunteers. Volunteers of all ages foster a community of connection and engagement.

     

    Today we enter a week-long celebration called  National Volunteer Week  which runs from  April 20 - April 26, 2025  

     

    During this week we take the opportunity to shine a light on the people that inspire us to serve for the benefit of the greater good.   Volunteerism empowers individuals to find their purpose, to take their passion and turn it into meaningful change. When you answer the call to make a difference, we make progress in “Improving Lives and Building a Stronger Community”,  our core mission.

     

    We celebrate our volunteers for giving their time and talents to Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the many volunteers who stand with us in promoting inclusion, education and literacy to the entire community.

     

    Every day our volunteers inspire us and help us create a more educated and literate community. Never doubt you make a measurable difference. Last year 1,235 volunteers gave us over 25,000 hours which equates to a value of over $800,000! 

    Arthur “Buzzy” W.
    Volunteer at South County Regional Library

     

    Our Portuguese, Spanish, and English Conversation Clubs have many dedicated members, and we have become friends. We have become family.  We help each other by listening to each other and we make new friends.

    Ashlyn W.
    Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

     

    I appreciate meeting new people, making new connections and the ability to contribute and help others.

    Becky G. 
    Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

     

    I worked for Mecklenburg County for 30+ years and I like giving back to the community. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a great impact.

    Carol L.
    Volunteer at Independence Regional Library

     

    I love being able to help make Library users feel more comfortable and supported.

    Kathy M.
    Reading Buddy at Mint Hill Library

     

    It feels good to think someone might enjoy reading a little better because I volunteered.

    Kay L. and Jack L.
    Volunteers at South County Regional Library

     

    I volunteer because I’ve always read, and libraries give people an opportunity to broaden their minds. - Kay

     

    The Library is such a multifaceted resource that anything that I can do to make it more available to the community is worth my time and effort. - Jack

    Lance W.
    Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

     

    Volunteering at the Library is a chance to give back. The staff at Mint Hill are wonderful!

    Lee M.
    Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

     

    I’ve truly been blessed. I have always loved to read. I feel like I’m giving back some of the good things people have done for me.

    Marianne L.
    Volunteer at Matthews Library

     

    Library books have always been a part of my life. As I grew older, I realized not everyone had access to books at home, but the Library filled that need. What could be a better way to give back to your community than to support the Library?

    Meg S. and Winnie
    Paws to Read Volunteers at ImaginOn

     

    Helping young people practice their reading with Winnie unlocks a new confidence in reading and speaking skills that opens doors forever.

    Pam M. and Seneca
    Paws to Read volunteers at South County Regional Library

     

    Seneca's enthusiasm, bright eyes, wagging tail, and willingness to bathe for her favorite volunteer destination keeps us coming back! Belly and ear scratches are in full abundance as well!

    Robert M.
    Paws to Read Volunteer at ImaginOn

     

    No child should feel shame or fear when learning to read.

    Sarah M.
    Volunteer at ImaginOn

     

    ImaginOn is such an amazing and creative space for kids, and the staff is very welcoming and kind.

    Steven K.
    Volunteer at Mint Hill Library

     

    I love helping with Reading Buddies, the Student Success Center, Día and EpicFest.

    Nora M.
    Paws to Read Volunteer at ImaginOn

     

    A child may come in and be afraid of reading, so they will just pet the dog. Ultimately, they feel more comfortable and will find a book and sit and read.

    Alicia, Volunteer at SouthPark Regional Library:

     

    "I love children's literature, especially picture books with their creative writing and unbelievable illustrations. I also think children are funny. When you combine reading a funny book with a fun child...it makes the volunteer work a real joy! I love escaping with books and hope to inspire this generation to find joy in the words and illustrations of children's literature. Thank you to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library system for making this possible."

     

    Ben, Volunteer at SouthPark Regional Library:

     

    "Technology can be daunting, but it's part of everyday life. I want people to feel more confident using their computers and phones. I don't know all the answers, so sometimes it becomes a quest with the person attending a class or tutoring session to see if we can find an answer or solution. The library offers Tech Titans 50+ programs, which is offered through a partnership with AARP, and it opened more ways I could volunteer."

     

    Bernice Mar – CM Library Logistics Volunteer :

     

    “Why do I want to volunteer? A strong library system is a vital part of every thriving community. This is a way for me to be an active part of a meaningful presence...an engine of sorts...that I believe is an essential, life-affirming resource that improves the quality-of-life for everyone (including non-library patrons).  As a child, the library is where I discovered that books opened a new and exciting world of stories, language, images, colors and patterns. It was such a treat to come home with a stack of new books to explore! That positive experience contributed to and blossomed into a lifelong love for reading, writing, learning, and self-expression. Eventually that led to a longstanding relationship with the Mecklenburg library system and its programs after moving to Charlotte two decades ago. “

     

     

    You will see our VolunTeens and our adult volunteers helping with the following:

    • Adopt an Aisle which includes families and children 12 and under.
    • Tech tutoring classes and one on one learning
    • Leading writing groups
    • Training to be Reading Buddies and help with Student Success Centers  
    • Prepping for branch book sales
    • Shelving, pulling holds and helping with morning deliveries
    • English as a Second Language programs  
    • Stocking Free Little Libraries all over Mecklenburg County
    • The ever-popular Paws to Read program where even your trained dog can volunteer!

     

     If I may give a grateful nod to those of you who help our staff shelve in the children's department (which isn’t for the meek), and a special thank you to the 28  staff who have taken on the role of Volunteer Point Person (VPPs) who guide and engage with our volunteers daily. They have worked diligently to make the Library a great experience for our volunteers.  

     

    Thank you for being a Library volunteer and helping deliver the magic of books, stories, technology and lifelong learning. You are a treasured and valuable part of our story.