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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 8/10/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 8/10

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 10:30 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

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

Mindful Mondays – 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. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Traditional Storytelling – 3 p.m. (Children’s programming)   learn more

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

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

 

Tuesday 8/11            

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 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

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

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

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)   

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 2 p.m.   (Children's programming)  learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

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

Adult Fanfiction Writing Club – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Engage 2020: Covid 19's Disproportionate Impact on People of Color – 7 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

 

Wednesday 8/12

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Bridging the Social Distance – 10 a.m.  (Adult programming)   register

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 10:30 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 – 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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Teens LIVE on Instagram: Chocolate No Bake Cookies – 5 p.m. (Teen programming)   learn more

Active Reading Training for Caregivers of K-3 Students – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

 

Thursday 8/13

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 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

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

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

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Adult programming) 

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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Book Talk: Children's – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Elevator Pitch – 4 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

Teen Fanfiction Writing Club – 4 p.m. (Teen programming)  register

Teens LIVE on Instagram: Tips for Your 1st Job Interview – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

 

Friday 8/14

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Nonprofit Services: Coffee & Conversation – 10 a.m.  (Adult programming)  register

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

Baby Storytime – 10:30 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

Connect with Yourself - Meditation for Wellness – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

Adulting 101 Series: Where Did the Time Go? Time Management – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Learning Circle: How to Be an LGBT+ Ally – 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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

 

Saturday 8/15

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

Learning Circle: The Science of Well-Being – 9:30 a.m.  (Adult programming)  register

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

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

Library Codelab: Intro to Web Accessibility  – 11 a.m.  (Adult programming)  register

Creative Connections through Letter Writing – 3 p.m.  (Adult programming)  register

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In 1920, the state of Tennessee ratified the 19th Amendment and thereby put women’s right to vote into the United States Constitution as the 19th Amendment. The 100th anniversary of this event takes place this month in an intensely political year. The Library has invited a speaker who can address both these topics, Dr. Marjorie Spruill, to participate in Engage 2020: Summer Series virtual program on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 7 p.m.

Spruill is a Professor of History at the University of South Carolina with a specialty in women’s history and the history of the American South. Her book, "New Women of the New South," talks about the challenges the advocates for women’s right to vote faced in the early 20th century South.

Her most recent book, "Divided We Stand," describes the story of the struggle for the Equal Rights Amendment in the 1970s. Feminists argued for the ERA and conservative women organized to resist it. The ensuing political and cultural battle that lasted all decade and resulted in the defeat of the proposed amendment. The polarization of American politics that arose over this issue remains with us still, Spruill argues.

This program will be streamed live over the Library’s Facebook page. 

For more information on the Engage 2020: Summer Series - A Conversation with Marjorie Spruill, click here.

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WOMEN VOTE! – That was the headline in August of 1920 as the 19th Amendment was ratified, and states could no longer deny the right to vote “on account of sex.” In commemoration of the centennial of this event, the League of Women Voters will present a program on Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 7 p.m.

The program will be hosted by community historian, Dr. Tom Hanchett, and will be streamed live by the Levine Museum of the New South and by its co-sponsor, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. Visitors to the Library’s Facebook page may view the proceedings and submit comments and questions via Facebook.

The League of Women Voters has been “encouraging informed and active participation in government” since 1920, when it changed its name from the “Equal Suffrage League,” following victory in the struggle for a women’s suffrage amendment. The seven Charlotteans pictured in this image from 1914 were all members of the Equal Suffrage League. 

In this election year, the Library is partnering with the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) offering programs like this one to encourage everyone to look back at what has been accomplished in the past and to move forward with empowerment to make a difference in one's own community. To learn more about Engage 2020, click here.

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Get Carded

Are you without a Library card? Or know someone who doesn’t have one? The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers millions of resources in books, music, movies, materials, digital programs and virtual programming - all for FREE with a Library card. What are you waiting for?

Even Superheroes know it’s important to have a Library card. September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a time when libraries remind customers, parents, caregivers and students that signing up for a library card is the first step towards academic achievement and lifelong learning. Wonder Woman is here to remind everyone that libraries are wonderful and you shouldn’t wait to get your Library card - now’s the time.

Signing up for a Library card is easy and doesn’t require any superpowers. CLICK HERE to sign up for a Library Card and download the CMLibrary mobile app on your smartphone or tablet to place holds, access resources and much more.

In a world rapidly moving to an online format, access to digital resources  and educational materials is more important than ever before. With limits on in-person gatherings and adjusted work and school schedules, living room sofas, kitchens and bedrooms have transformed into workspaces. But what hasn’t changed is needing information – for education, work, extracurricular interests or just for fun. The Library’s mission is to improve lives and build a stronger community, and we encourage everyone in Mecklenburg County to sign up for a Library card to gain access to books, media and invaluable digital resources. Again, it’s all FREE.

 

FREE Digital Resources

The Library is a tremendous one-stop shop, not just for books but for digital resources and so much more. You can access virtual tutoring and homework help for children through Tutor.com. You can find the resources to support a new (or existing) business venture with Lynda.com. Maybe you want to perfect an existing skill--or learn a new one--with Universal Class. When you have a Charlotte Mecklenburg Library card, you can access a multitude of online resources available to you for FREE.

Maybe you love watching movies and listening to music? Film and music buffs can benefit from a Library card. With the kanopy, OverDrive, hoopla and Freegal apps that are available for FREE with a Library card, you can stream or download films, documentaries and the newest songs.

ACCESS RESOURCES

 

Value Like No Other

Do you know how much a Library card can save you? $100? $300? Even up to $1000! 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 much you could save by switching to the Library. The numbers don’t lie; a Library card is a great value!

 

Virtual Programming from the Library

While our branches are open with limited capacity, the Library is always here to serve the community. Did you know that you can continue to participate in Library programming 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 upcoming programming below.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS CLICK HERE

 

Sign up Today

Signing up for a Library card is super easy. CLICK HERE to sign up for a Library Card and download the CMLibrary mobile app on your smartphone or tablet to place holds, access resources and much more.

 

 

 

View this easy tutorial on how to sign up for a Library card online.

So, now that you know everything you can do with your Library card, what are you waiting for? Join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and “get carded” today!

 

 

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This month, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library celebrates the centennial of the 19th Amendment. This amendment to the United States Constitution added the declaration that no state could deny a citizen the right to vote "on account of sex.” Many states already allowed limited voting rights for women by 1920, although North Carolina, along with nine other states, still restricted all elections to men only. (See map.) It took this amendment to make women’s suffrage universal throughout the nation.

 

 

A suffragist map from late 1919 showing the extent of voting rights for women and the progress of ratification of the 19^th Amendment by state legislatures.

 

 

 

 

 

The movement to win the right to vote for women was decades in the making, but it garnered very little public support in North Carolina until 1913 when a state chapter of the Equal Suffrage League opened. A few days prior to the yearly Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence Day parade on May 20 (a day of local patriotism much-celebrated once in Charlotte), local chapter members decided they would participate. They hired a driver with a horse-drawn cart, decorated it, and set out along the parade route.

 

Suzanne Bynum, Anna Forbes Liddell, Catherine McLaughlin, Jane Stillman, Julia McNinch, Bessie Mae Simmonds, and Mary Belle Palmer stand up for women’s suffrage. Charlotte, NC, May 20, 1914.  Courtesy of the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

 

 

“A success? I should say so!” said the male writer of an article for the Charlotte Observer. “The suffragist cause thrives on publicity, and [the float] was one of the features of a crowded day. Thousands who had ignored the subject discussed it that night.” -Victor L. Stephenson, “Story of that Suffrage Float,” The Charlotte Observer, (November 1, 1914).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Article in the Charlotte News, May 21, 1914

 

 

Later that same year, the Charlotte chapter hosted the statewide convention of the Equal Suffrage League in November. The event attracted luminaries from around the state and received special attention from The Charlotte Observer, which published a special edition to cover events at the convention. Attendees planned to lobby hard for women’s suffrage in the state, or, as The Charlotte Observer put it, “lay siege to the next legislature.”

The year 1915 began with high hopes that were quickly dashed. In February, both the State House and Senate of North Carolina declined – by large majorities - to amend the state constitution to allow votes for women. In the next four years, as other states embraced equal suffrage, North Carolina did not join the movement. When the 19^th Amendment was finally adopted by the United States Senate in 1919, both North Carolina Senators voted against it.

The drama then shifted to state legislatures. Thirty-six of the forty-eight states needed to say "yes" for the amendment to be ratified. By August 1920, 35 states had done so. The General Assembly of North Carolina was called into special session to consider it, and local suffragists hoped to claim the honor of putting the amendment over the top for their state. On August 18, however, Tennessee became the 36th state to ratify. The North Carolina House held a vote on the amendment anyway the next day and voted it down in a purely symbolic gesture.

Alas, this expansion of the right to vote did not improve access to the polls for African Americans in North Carolina. State laws that effectively barred African Americans from participating in elections remained in place so that Black women remained as excluded as before ratification. The editor of the Star of Zion, a Black newspaper in Charlotte, pointed to the irony of celebrating a partial expansion of rights that should belong to all. He referred to the 19^th Amendment as the “Susan B. Anthony Amendment,” after the woman who had proposed it in 1875.

“The name of the 19^th Amendment savors of universal freedom. Susan B. Anthony herself was as ardent an abolitionist as she was a suffragist, and her amendment presupposes that all citizens in free America should have the use of the ballot. And if she were living, she would keep up the fight for it.” (Star of Zion, August 26, 1920).

In this election year, the Library is partnering with the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) offering programs like this one to encourage everyone to look back at past accomplishments and to move forward with empowerment to make a difference in one's own community. To learn more about Engage 2020, click here.

--

This blog was written by Tom Cole of the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

 

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Molloy, Jill. “Timeline of Women’s Suffrage,” NCPedia, published by the North Carolina Government and Heritage Library, accessed July 22, 2020. https://www.ncpedia.org/anchor/timeline-womens-suffrage

 

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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 8/17/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

 

Sunday 8/16

Engage 2020: Community Conversations - Local Voices Matter – 3 p.m.  (Adult programming) register

 

Monday 8/17

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 10:30 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

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

Remote Learning 101: Library Resources to Enhance Your Child's Learning – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Mindful Mondays – 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. (Adult programming)   register

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment - 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Traditional Storytelling – 3 p.m. (Children’s programming)  learn more

 

Tuesday 8/18            

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   learn more

Email Basics – 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 – 1 p.m.  (Children's programming)   register

Nonprofit Services: Intro to Foundation Directory Online – 2 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

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

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

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

Story Explorers Enrichment – 2 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)  register

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

 

Wednesday 8/19

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 10:30 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 – 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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Teens LIVE on Instagram: DIY Jean Embroidery – 5 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

Learning Circle: The 1619 Project – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

 

Thursday 8/20

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 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

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 – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Book Talk: Children's – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  learn more

Caregiver Class: Active Reading Comprehension Strategies for Upper Elementary – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Teens LIVE on Instagram: Build a Terrarium – 6 p.m. (Teen programming)  learn more

Social Justice Book Club: Reading to Understand – 6 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

 

Friday 8/21

Virtual Reading Buddies – 9 a.m.  (Children's programming)   register

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

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

Baby Storytime – 10:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)   learn more

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

Nonprofit Services: Coffee & Conversation – 10 a.m.  (Adult programming)  register

Engage 2020: Ted Talks Discussion Group: Overlooked History – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register

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

Mindful Friday - Meditation for Wellness – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  register

Learning Circle: How to Be an LGBT+ Ally – 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

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

One-on-One Tutoring and Enrichment – 2:30 p.m. (Children's programming)   register

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

Writers Conversation Hour – 6 p.m.  (Adult programming)   register

 

Saturday 8/22

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

Virtual Laundry Day – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  register 

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

Social Justice Book Club: Reading to Understand – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   register

 

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We’ve seen brighter days and, surely, we’ll see them again. As early as this weekend it seems.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library invites you to stay home while staying connected to Library resources and each other with an all-day “In Living Color” virtual activity day on Saturday, April 11, 2020! Anyone can participate in this event, which features fun, color-themed activities and lists we’ve curated to help enliven your spring, despite our collective circumstances. You can enjoy all of the activities listed below from the comfort of home, on your own time.

Our commitment to improve lives and build a stronger community is not limited by distance and we hope that however you spend your weekend, you know that your Library is thinking of you during this critical time.

Come along with us for your personal adventure. You can post your photos and videos to social media, tag @cmlibrary and use the hashtags #CMLinlivingcolor and #icanwithCML. 
Remember, we’re all in this together.

So, what can you look forward to on Saturday, April 11, 2020? Try any (or all!) of the following*:
 

Go for a color walk

What’s a color walk? Pick a color of your choice and go for a relaxed stroll near home. Look for things in nature, and in your surroundings, that match the color you picked! Find color walk instructions here.

Spell your name

Have a long name? You’re in for a ton of fun this weekend! Choose the letters that comprise your name and complete the actions assigned to each one. You might not finish them all in one day, but, then again, you might. Besides, who doesn’t want to make an orange creamsicle smoothie or play a game of Trouble online? Click here to spell your name.

Get into the groove

Our colorful Freegal Music playlist is head-bob worthy. We encourage foot-tapping as well. Listen here (hint: you’ll need your Library card number or ONE Access ID to access this list. Need one? Apply for a Library card here).

Head to class

That’s Universal Class, if you were wondering. Sign up for a class such as Face Painting 101, Cake Decorating 101 or Digital Photography 101. If you’re going to be home, you might as well learn something you’ll love. Find the perfect class for you here.

Put on your game face

Everyone wins with this colorful game list. Don’t have a suggested boardgame on hand? That’s ok – we’ve thrown in some online games as well. Find a game you love here.

Recline and rewind

If watching a film or movie is more your speed, we have that covered for you as well. The hue-named titles on this list are a good pick on any day. Explore movies for children and for older teens and adults.

Let’s get cooking

Whether you know your way around the kitchen or you’re a novice to the stove, these tasty, vibrant and handy recipes will ensure your everyone’s favorite chef by summertime. Find yummy recipes here.

Get ready to read color titles

Are you an avid reader? Great! Because we dove deep to find the perfect books for you. Access your next favorite color-themed read here: Adult reading list, Children’s reading list, Teen reading list.

Have an active day and don't forget to tag your social media posts! #CMLinlivingcolor  #icanwithCML
 

*Please remember that borrower checkout limits apply for digital and online resources

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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 4/13/2020 below. Click the corresponding links for more information and register for programs where applicable.

Learn more about online programming by clicking here

Monday 4/13

Family Storytime - 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

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

Mindful Monday -12 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 1 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 2 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

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

Book a Librarian - General Reference – 2:30 p.m.   REGISTER

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

 

Tuesday 4/14               

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)    LEARN MORE

Aprendiendo Juntos en Casa – 10 a.m. (information to be emailed to prior participants)

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

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

Learning Circle: The Science of Well-Being – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Teen and Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 2 p.m.  (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - General Reference – 2:30 p.m.  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3:30 p.m.   REGISTER

WFAE Presents: Podcasting 101 – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Matthews Fiction Writing Group – 6:30 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

 

Wednesday 4/15

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

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

History and Historical Fiction Book Club – 12 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 1 p.m. (Teen programming)   REGISTER

Learning Circle: Intro to HTML and CSS – 1 p.m. (Adult programming)  LEARN MORE

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

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 2 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - General Reference – 2:30 p.m.   REGISTER

Basics of Active Reading for Parents – 3 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

Online Listen and Move Storytime – 3 p.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Poetry Workshop (Virtual) A Journey Through the Senses – 4 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

 

Thursday 4/16

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

Write Like You Mean It – 10 a.m. (Adult programming)  LEARN MORE

Aprendiendo Juntos en Casa – 10 a.m. (information to be emailed to prior participants)

Cuentos Virtuales en Español - 10:30 a.m. (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE

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

e-Resource Highlight Video for Adults – 11 a.m. (Adult programming)  LEARN MORE

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

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Creating Virtual Resumes with the Job Help Center – 1 p.m. (Adult and Teen programming)   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 1 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Active Reading Mentor Training – 2 p.m. (Adult programming)   REGISTER

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

Book a Librarian - General Reference – 2:30 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3 p.m.   REGISTER

Book a Librarian - Children's Reference – 3:30 p.m.   REGISTER

Books on Tap Book Club – 7 p.m. (Adult programming)  REGISTER

 

Friday 4/17

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m. (Children's programming)   LEARN MORE

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

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 12 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 1 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

Book a Librarian - My Next Step – 2 p.m. (Teen programming)  REGISTER

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

Book a Librarian - General Reference – 2:30 p.m.   REGISTER

 

Saturday 4/18

Family Storytime – 9:30 a.m.  (Children's programming)  LEARN MORE
 

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When he was a boy growing up in Charlotte, Reginald Ardrey went to Charlotte Mecklenburg Library to escape.

Now 69, Ardrey, who lives full-time in Oakland, Calif., but has returned to Charlotte to care for his elderly parents, says, once again, it’s the Library where he spends most of his time. This time, though, it’s not books Ardrey spends his time with – it’s the past.

Through the expanded free offering of Ancestry® Library Edition -- made available at all Library branches in December 2018 -- Ardrey has learned more about himself through unlocking the past.

“It’s opened up a wealth of information for me,” Ardrey said as he sat by a computer in the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room in Main Library one November afternoon, explaining how his great aunt lived just down the street from Romare Bearden. “I found a whole bunch of family members I didn’t even know existed. I found out things even my parents didn’t know!”

Sifting through United States Census records (from as far back as 1840) on Ancestry as well as birth and death certificates, Ardrey was able to trace his family’s roots all the way from the mid-19^th century in South Carolina to today, where his mother grew up in Uptown on Alexander Street.

Ardrey’s great-great-great grandfather, Reuben Barber, Ardrey learned through research, was a corporal in Company A of the 47^th US Colored Infantry. For his service, his name is etched into a monument in Washington, D.C., that honors black soldiers who fought in the Civil War.

But it’s not only the past Ardrey’s unlocking through Ancestry. Through his research, Ardrey said, he’s found several living family members to whom he’s reached out, proudly telling them their ancestor’s name is forever inscribed on a prominent Washington monument.

Yet, it’s perhaps the future that interests Ardrey most. An avid gym-goer and self-described health-nut, Ardrey often looks for his family’s death certificates to see their causes of death. Ancestry revealed in the early 1900s, many of his family members died of diabetes-related complications.

Ardrey wants others to know about this free resource and the benefits he’s gained from it.

“Even if you weren’t interested in genealogy before, it can open up a lot of doors for you.”

There’s one thing, though, that evades Ardrey’s research, something he just can’t discern through Census records and death certificates.

“I wish I knew what kind of people they were,” he said.

Unlock your own history by accessing Ancestry® Library Edition for free online. Ancestry is extending access to the its Library Edition online for Library customers while Library locations are physically closed during the COVID-19 crisis.

Read one woman's life-changing biological discovery here.