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Top 10 Ways Library Can Support Teachers and Students

August 12, 2025

This blog was written by Lisa Wright and Elyse Farmer, program coordinator for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Since 2015 the ONE Access program, short for “One Number Equals Access,” makes it easier than ever for students and staff to connect with Charlotte Mecklenburg Library resources. By using their school identification number (or NC EdCloud/employee ID for staff) instead of a separate library card, participants can instantly access a wealth of materials and tools. From research databases to e-books, audiobooks, magazines, music, and video, ONE Access provides digital learning opportunities as well as the option to borrow up to 10 print or audiobooks with no overdue fines. This partnership between the Library and area schools supports literacy, learning, and educational success throughout the community. In 2025, we’re marking 10 amazing years of ONE Access, and we’ll be celebrating all year long with “Top 10” lists you won’t want to miss!

Top 10 Ways Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Can Support Teachers & Students

1. Library accounts for all CMS teachers and students. By using either employee ID numbers (teachers) or student ID numbers (students), everyone in CMS can check out physical books and access eBooks and more through the library website.

2. Active Reading & Read Together Workshops. Active Reading is an interactive approach that helps children build early literacy skills by asking questions, building vocabulary, and making connections while reading a story. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers outreach workshops to schools, and resources and tips for families, caregivers, and educators to make reading aloud more engaging and effective.

3. Free computer use, wi-fi, and study spaces at our branches. All 20 library locations have computers and Wi-Fi that students can use for FREE with a library card or ONE Access account, as well as space to study.

4. Free homework help. Weekly Homework Help programming is available at all library locations. Trained Homework Help volunteers provide a welcoming and supportive environment where young learners can: get help completing assignments, practice important foundational skills (such as math facts or reading), and get connected to important Library resources including Tutor.com, a free professional virtual tutoring service that provides 15 free tutoring sessions in any subject each week with a ONE Access account. Visit the Homework Help website for library locations and hours when the program is provided.

5. Reading Buddies program. The Reading Buddies program is a free program that brings together children and volunteers to read in thirty-minute appointments one time a week at all Library locations. Children select their own books to read, and trained volunteers provide support and encouragement to help children practice and foster a love of reading! Visit the Reading Buddies website for library locations and hours, and how to register for a weekly appointment slot.

6. College and Career Connections. College and Career Connections is a suite of free programs and workshops offered by community experts and organizations such as the College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) and The Princeton Review. Topics range from resources to pay for college, admissions essays, test prep, and online practice tests to help teens plan and prepare for their future after high school and beyond. Visit the College and Career Connections page for more information, including how to take the Road Map to Success Challenge.

7. Schools paired with library branches. Each CMS school is paired with a library branch close to the school location. These pairings are a resource for educators to find a nearby library best able to assist them with library resources and services. View the menu on the ONE Access Guide for Schools for a list of possible programs library staff can provide.

8. FREE access to local and regional history. The collection is also expanded with online resources at CMStory.org. (Lots of cool images and exhibits!) Supplement and enhance curriculum in the classroom with artifacts and primary source documents from our community.

9. Community events including Summer Reading, Epic Fest, and Community Read. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library host author visits, book talks, and storytelling sessions that connect students with the people behind the books they read. These events can bring literature to life, inspire reluctant readers, and provide opportunities for students to ask questions and learn about the writing process.

10. Trusted Library staff to support teachers and families. Librarians and library associates enjoy collaborating with teachers, caregivers, and students to recommend age-appropriate high quality materials that spark student interest and align with curriculum goals. They provide guidance on research skills, technology use, and literacy strategies to help students succeed in the classroom and at home.

Ten years of ONE Access means ten years of empowering teachers, students, and families, and we’re just getting started. We look forward to an incredible school year and many more years of learning and connection ahead!

Library Sunday Hours return September 7

August 28, 2025

Beginning September 7, 2025, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library regional branches and ImaginOn will be open on Sundays at 1:00 p.m-5:00 p.m. Sunday hours will be in place until May 17, 2026. Visit your nearest regional branch to find a new read, use a computer, enjoy a program, and so much more!

Allegra Westbrooks
Independence Regional
North County Regional
South County Regional
SouthPark Regional
University City Regional
ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center

Join the hottest "club" in town by getting a Library card this September

August 29, 2025

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

September is Library Card Sign-up Month! It’s the perfect time to get a Charlotte Mecklenburg Library card—and the best part? It’s totally FREE!

Your library card gives you and your family access to millions of amazing resources:

•    Books, audiobooks, movies, music & more
•    Digital tools, streaming, eBooks, and learning resources
•    Creative kits and hands-on materials
•    Fun programs and events—both online and in-person
•    Spaces to study, connect, and create

Don’t just take our word for it. Keep reading for just a taste of what a library card at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has to offer!

Sign up for a Library card

Whether you're a curious kid, a busy Millennial, or a lifelong learner, there's something for everyone at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library—from toddlers to grandparents.

Get a Library Card

A Library card helps your child find Imagination

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 Homework Help 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!

Explore Children's & Teen Programs

The hottest "club" in the Queen City is a book club

Millennials — have you been looking for a book club to join, or maybe even interested in starting your own? What about programing that speaks to all your interests, from career help to gaming? Look no further than the Library! Who needs bottle service when you’ve got complimentary book service? Slide through, check us out, and be back home by 8:30 with a tote full of stories (and zero regrets). No cover. Zero fines. Free parking. Say less! Check out one of our robust book club kits to help you get started and pop in for a program while you're here.

CMLibrary. Your new favorite spot—minus the hangover.

Explore Book Clubs

FREE Digital Resources

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.

Explore Our Resources

Find Comunidad (Community)

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.

Explore Our World Language Collection Explore "Comunidad"

Value Like No Other

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!

Explore The Calculator

Comunidad

Read more about Comunidad

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Carolina Ascent Football Club: A Winning Partnership for Welcoming Week

September 3, 2025

This blog post was written by Lonna Vines, branch manager at the Myers Park branch of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Charlotte, NC proudly holds the Certified Welcoming designation from Welcoming America, a recognition awarded to cities and counties that demonstrate a strong commitment to welcoming and immigrant inclusion. As of 2025, only 28 cities and counties across the U.S. have earned this honor.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library recognizes the vital role that newcomers play in enriching our community, and we work year-round to help new residents -- with extra emphasis on international newcomers -- get connected, stay engaged, and feel at home in our city.

That’s why we are thrilled to announce a brand new partnership with the Carolina Ascent Football Club, Charlotte’s newest professional sports team. The Ascent is a women’s soccer team already making an impact on and off the field. What better organization to partner with in celebration of Welcoming Week than a team made up of athletes who know what it means to move to a new city and build a community.

Recently, library staff had the opportunity to visit a team practice and chat with a few of the players about their experiences moving to Charlotte.

Meet Taylor Porter: Newcomer, Athlete, and Book Lover

One of those players was Taylor Porter, who joined Carolina Ascent FC and moved to Charlotte just over a year ago. Originally from sunny San Diego, Taylor knows firsthand what it’s like to make a big move and start fresh in a new city.

When asked about her transition to Charlotte, Taylor smiled:

“I think the thing that surprised me most was just how welcoming people are here. It’s not easy moving across the country, leaving behind friends and family, but Charlotte has a way of making you feel at home. My teammates have been incredible, but I’ve also met people just by exploring the city.”

Taylor admits she misses San Diego’s beaches, but she’s quickly found her own Charlotte favorites.

“I love exploring all the local coffee shops. Each one has such a different vibe, and it’s become my way of getting to know the city. Plus, as a reader, it’s the perfect place to relax with a good book.”

Her most recent read? Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry.

Taylor’s story highlights exactly why this partnership is so special—newcomers bring their passions, talents, and fresh perspectives, and in turn, they find belonging and community in Charlotte.

Celebrate Welcoming Week with Us

Welcoming Week 2025 will be held September 12–21, and the library has an exciting lineup of events planned. In addition to programs across our branches, we’re bringing back our popular Welcoming Challenge, running from September 1–30.

Here’s how it works:

Pick up a challenge sheet at your nearest Charlotte Mecklenburg Library branch.
Complete three activities from the sheet.
Return your completed sheet to the branch to earn prizes!

Prizes include (while supplies last):

Sign-up Prize: A WelcomeCLT Button
Completion Prize: A WelcomeCLT Insulated Tote Bag + a free Carolina Ascent FC ticket
Grand Prize: An internationally themed basket with books, snacks, merchandise, and a Carolina Ascent hospitality package for a family of four to enjoy food and fun at a match

Library Night with Carolina Ascent

Mark your calendars: Carolina Ascent FC is hosting a special “Library Night” on Wednesday, September 24 at 7:00pm at American Legion Memorial Stadium. All you need to join the fun is your WelcomeCLT Challenge sheet. Pick one up at your local library branch, complete your activities, and claim your free ticket!

Together, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Carolina Ascent are celebrating what makes our city so special: a community where everyone, whether brand new or lifelong resident, belongs. Visit WelcomeCLT.org to learn more.

Sources:

https://welcomingamerica.org/initiatives/certified-welcoming/

https://welcomingamerica.org/

https://www.carolinaascent.com/

https://www.cmlibrary.org/

https://www.welcomeclt.org/

Top 10 Homework Hacks with your ONE Access Account

September 5, 2025

This blog was written by Elyse Farmer, Program Coordinator at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Homework piling up now that school is back in session? Don’t stress, your ONE Access Library account has you covered! Each month we're sharing a Top 10 list in honor of ONE Access turning 10. Here are 10 Homework Hacks to make assignments easier this school year.

1. Get Free Homework Help In-Person: All Charlotte Mecklenburg Library locations provide free Homework Help, where trained volunteers set up in our locations at least one afternoon each week to offer assistance with assignments, practicing other skills, or getting connected to library resources.
1. Login for Free Professional Tutoring Help via Tutor.com: Cannot make it to a Library location? No worries! With your ONE Access Library account, you can access professional live tutoring via Tutor.com, a resource that provides certified tutors in any subject area daily from 3:00-11:00 p.m. 15 free sessions are available every week for ONE Access students!
1. Never Pay for a Book Again: ONE Access Library accounts allow students to borrow up to 10 print or audiobooks, and borrow digital e-books, magazines, and audiobooks! When school reading assignments are given, check with your local library to access these materials; digital materials are available online, anytime!
1. Great Study Spaces: Do you need a quiet place to study and complete your homework? Quiet, comfortable study spaces are available at library locations to help! Access to free Wi-Fi and study rooms are also available daily and on weekends, perfect for group projects.
1. Access Current Events: ONE Access Students have access to hundreds of digital newspapers and magazines, perfect for assignments where informational text or current events are needed.
1. Ace Research Papers: For students completing research papers, free library databases are available for use! Various digital databases are available- we recommend PebbleGo and PowerKnowledge for elementary school students, and SIRS Discoverer or ProQuest for middle and high school students. Many of these databases also offer free citation support, perfect for making sure assignments are just right.
1. Language Homework Help: Learning a new language? ONE Access Library accounts have access to Transparent Language, a free learning platform for learners of all levels looking to build their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in a foreign language.
1. Practice for Tests: Utilize the Learning Express/Prep Step eLearning platform with your ONE Access account, to access free practice tests in Math, English, Science, Social Studies (grades 4-12), as well as test prep courses for college placement tests.
1. Explore Career Resources: Teens beginning their journey to deciding what to do after high school should take advantage of College and Career Connections programming at all Charlotte Mecklenburg Library locations. Free programs and workshops are offered by community experts from resources to pay for college, admissions essay help, test prep, and online practice tests. Starting in October, teens are also invited to take The Road Map to Success Challenge, by participating and logging activities over the course of the school year that aid in planning for their future to earn badges and prizes!
1. Ask a Librarian: We saved the best for last! The biggest homework hack is for ONE Access students to make use of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library staff. Staff are always happy to recommend books and resources, programming, or a little encouragement to guide students in their learning.

Visit your local library in-person or online to take advantage of these homework hacks today! Charlotte Mecklenburg Library wishes all students in our community a wonderful 2025-2026 school year.

Freedom to Read

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Mountain Island Library Will Close on Nov. 1.

October 2, 2025

Beginning Nov. 1, the Mountain Island branch will temporarily close for renovations and facility maintenance. The Library will replace the roof, update lighting, and service the HVAC and other mechanical systems during the closure. The branch is expected to reopen in January 2026.

Q: Where will my holds go?

A: All customer holds will be sent to Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library beginning November 1. You are able to change your pick-up location to any other CML branch. Allegra Westbrooks Regional, West Boulevard and North County Regional are the nearest Mecklenburg County Library locations. The last date to pick up holds from Mountain Island will be Thursday, October 30th (10/30/25).

Q: While Mountain Island Branch Library is closed, where’s the nearest location to use a computer?

A: Allegra Westbrooks Regional, West Boulevard, and North County Regional are the nearest Mecklenburg County locations and have computers and seating.

Q: While Mountain Island Branch Library is closed, will I still be able to return books here?

A: No, the outside book return will not be available during our closure. You can return items to any other CML location. The book drop will close at 4:30pm on Friday, October 31 (10/31/25).

As we receive more information regarding the closure, we will update this blog accordingly.