Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library branch manager Alesha Lackey and University City Regional Library branch manager Debra Sharp spoke at the 2025 Verse & Vino event
Community
A Horse in the Library
A stunning sculpture finds a new home at the Library
The Room with a view of the past and the future
A librarian’s legacy of historical preservation will live on with new technology for the Carolina Room
EpicFest 2024
EpicFest is an extraordinary, free literary festival that joyfully connects children, teens and families with books and the people who write them through activities that encourage a love of reading and learning.
Well-groomed and well-read
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library outreach team developed barbershop-based reading spaces and increased reading opportunities for boys of color in local communities
The Starrs align for Main Library programming
Stephanie and Gary Starr want to get to know you. And they’re creating the perfect reason to do it.
Flight Fund: A Home Economics Revival
A story of impact: Fast food restaurants. Convenience foods. Rising food prices. Expensive cooking classes. Enter the Library.
Flight Fund: Just Add Water
A story of impact: The Library serves as a first step toward learning so many new skills — so why not swimming?
Flight Fund: Story Time for All
A story of impact: Jennifer Williams-Cannon created a story time for marginalized children at the Library
Flight Fund: All Things Gardening
A story of impact: Andrea Davis brings her passion for gardening to the Library
Fifth Third Bank shifts MoLi into the next gear
Cincinnati, Ohio-based bank will supercharge the Mobile Library with much-needed upgrades
Tia and the Mayor of Midwood
A story of impact: “I was about to throw in the towel,” Tia remembers in a particularly overwhelming time in her life. In 2022, Tia joined Roof Above as a nurse and met a familiar face from her days studying at the Library: her old friend James.
Lessons of a Library Dropout
“Before we get started, there’s something you should know. I’m 51 years old, and I’ve never set foot inside a public library.”
Home, Work and … Library?
This #LibraryGivingDay, a one-day fundraising event on April 3, we make the case for the Library as a great “third place.”
Reading Mascots get turn in the spotlight during Book Club Madness
Reading buddies come in all shapes and sizes… furry friends, special bookmarks, favorite mugs, comfiest spots in the house, and of course, book club friends! See the gallery.
Activate your birthday with the Library
Your birthday is on the horizon, and everyone is asking you what you want. If you’re a Library lover, the…
Flight Fund grant recipients cleared for takeoff
Established in 2023, the Flight Fund awards Library staff with financial support up to $2,500 for creating and expanding community activities that align with Library programming and equity priorities.
Top Titles at the Library in 2023
As we bid farewell to another year, it’s time to unveil what our customers checked out the most in 2023.
A Message from Library CEO Marcellus Turner
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library During Uncertain Times
The new Main Library project takes top honors with Nerve readers
Queen City Nerve, Charlotte’s alternative newspaper, published their winners for this year’s “Best in the Nest” competition on November 29, 2023.
Giving Tuesday 2023
We encourage people to contribute to our libraries and library staff on #GivingTuesday as they create educational, safe and inspiring spaces year-round for everyone in Mecklenburg County.
Verse & Vino’s tenth anniversary celebration
The tenth annual Verse & Vino brought together seasoned attendees, newcomers, library advocates and great authors in one room!
PNC Foundation awards $500,000 grant to bolster early literacy support for local children
Grant builds on PNC Foundation’s longstanding commitment to help prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life.
Construction of new Main Library makes national design news
The new Main Library groundbreaking brought a well-deserved spotlight to the innovative and architecturally-stunning project led by internationally-acclaimed architects Snøhetta.
What’s Cooking with Shef Shaun?
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation is featuring Shaun “Shef” Williams at the next event at Mint Hill Library on Saturday, September 16. He will be doing cooking demonstrations — specifically for those with little time to cook or meal plan.
Bringing Public Art to the Library
CML Associate Director Tony Talent shares how the Library is working diligently to make art and artful experiences more accessible to all our communities.
Principal Foundation harnesses the power of storytelling
Principal® Foundation, a global nonprofit committed to helping people and communities build financially secure futures, is launching Money Chronicles: A Story Initiative, using the power of storytelling to help destigmatize and encourage conversations about money and personal finances.
A Message from the Library’s CEO and Chief Librarian
Marcellus Turner shares news about the progress of new Main Library and the current redevelopment challenges.
Remembering Rolfe
Rolfe, best known for being the publisher of The Charlotte Observer, passed away this past weekend at 90. He was dedicated to reporting the truth and upholding intellectual freedom. Naturally, being a steadfast Library supporter wasn’t a big leap.
Equipping the Next Generation of Leaders
Loft Leaders Academy is an innovative new teen program offered at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library that received a grant through the Flight Fund to make the program fly.
MoLi and Saul: Report from the Road
“MoLi rolled past 10,000 on our odometer this week! I believe we were just under 1,800 miles on delivery of MoLi in November 2021.”
There’s more to the story at your Library
One could argue that any day spent at the library is a very good day. But on April 4 the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is celebrating an extra special day — National Library Giving Day.
CommonSpark leadership’s 2023 update highlights another successful year
The CommonSpark campaign leadership is so thankful for your support and encouragement as we continued to guide and fuel this…
Nucor Corporation Invests $1M In Charlotte’s New Main Library
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation takes great pleasure in announcing a $1 million investment from Nucor Corporation to The CommonSpark Campaign. The Charlotte-based corporation is one of North America’s most sustainable steel companies, already meeting the emission benchmarks set by the 2030 Paris Climate Agreement.
Circulation Superstars
Our social media post on The Brooklyn Public Library’s most requested books of all time got a lot of attention, so we thought you’d enjoy a peek at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s most requested books of 2022. Are your favorites on the list? Are there books that will be added to your TBR list? Any surprises?
MoLi Meets a Milestone
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s mobile unit MoLi is coming up on its one year anniversary. And what a year it’s been!
Giving Tuesday 2022
As the caboose of the weekend following Thanksgiving (starting with the infamous Black Friday, then Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday) Giving Tuesday is an opportunity to focus on and celebrate the places and people who strengthen and support our community. Obviously, here at the Library Foundation, we want to shine a spotlight on our libraries and library staff.
What is Caroleen Burroughs reading?
Foundation Board member Caroleen Burroughs is back with an inspiring new list of 2022 favorites and how she turned her birthday into a philanthropic celebration. (And she thinks you should do it, too!) Learn more in her latest blog for the Foundation.
Verse & Vino 2022
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation was back at the Charlotte Convention Center at Verse & Vino this year. We are thrilled to announce that we had 1,100 people in attendance and raised over $475,000… with donations still coming in. If there is a group of people more dedicated, enthusiastic and committed to improving and strengthening an organization like the Library, it’s our Verse & Vino guests. They’re the reason why we are one of America’s leading urban public libraries.
This year we were joined once again by our emcee Sheri Lynch and five outstanding New York Times bestselling authors: David Baldacci, Sarah McCoy, Javier Zamora, Megan Giddings, and Adriana Trigiani.
What is Caton Morris reading?
Caton and her husband Charlie are dedicated supporters of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. She has enjoyed volunteering as a member of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation’s annual Verse & Vino planning committee since 2017, and recently joined the Foundation’s Board. Prior to taking time to focus on raising her three young children, Caton was a public and investor relations consultant for 13 years in the biotechnology industry. Check out her spooky-themed picks, just in time for Halloween!
The Leon Levine Foundation Invests $1M In Charlotte’s New Main Library
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation is delighted to announce the generous investment of $1 million from The Leon Levine Foundation to The CommonSpark campaign. A longtime Library supporter and early Library Foundation investor, The Leon Levine Foundation’s values of leadership and opportunity align with the Library’s position as a cornerstone of the community, a place that is open to all.
A Conversation with Gene Cochrane
Executive Director Jenni Gaisbauer chatted with Board Chair Gene Cochrane to learn more about his passion for the Library.
Brick & Mortar & Beyond: UNC Charlotte Partnership
Last fall the Library’s first Masters of Social Work intern Miosha Johnson blazed a much-needed trail — developing a program…
What is Alan Michael Parker reading?
Davidson College’s Douglas Houchens Professor of English Alan Michael Parker is a man of many talents. While he is an accomplished novelist, poet, critic and scholar, Alan Michael is also getting attention for his avant-garde cartoons.
Take a look at some of his creations along with some recommendations you don’t want to miss.
8 Reasons Why Your Book Club is the Best
During the pandemic, book clubs have been a lifeline. Those literary-focused, often-virtual social events were a welcome distraction from the upheaval in work, school, families, children, and life. Even now when the new normal is starting to become the “normal” normal, our book clubs reignite the joy of friendship and help us rediscover the magic in books.
Kathy Reichs: A Look Back
How fortunate we are to call New York Times best-selling author and acclaimed forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs neighbor, friend and Charlotte Mecklenburg Library supporter.
To a crowd of almost 200 Kathy entertained with tales of her real-life adventures dealing in mind-boggling murders and macabre mysteries with a delightful dose of humor.
Novant Health and Charlotte Mecklenburg Library announce $1 million investment, community well-being partnership
Novant Health and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library are excited to announce a strategic partnership to address social determinants of health, advance health equity and create sustainable impact across our communities. Novant Health will make a $1 million investment which includes a cash gift of $500,000 to the CommonSpark campaign and $500,000 in in-kind support for program and service delivery over the next five years.
Keeping a Language Alive
There is a reason why Tamil is thought to be the oldest language in the world. Charlotte Tamil Library Volunteer Group (a.k.a. Charlotte Tamil Noolaga Kuzhu) have devoted time and gifts to bring 150 Tamil books to Charlotte Mecklenburg Library patrons — and they don’t plan on stopping. Their limitless energy and dedication to learning and language enriches our entire community.
What is Sonyah Spencer reading?
Sonyah Spencer owns and operates The Urban Reader, an independent bookstore in the University City area. A native of Fairborn, Ohio, she opened her store in 2019 with over 3,000 books for all ages and interests, written exclusively by Black authors. See Sonyah’s latest favorites for kids, tweens and adults with a sneak peek gallery of her charming store.
A treasure unearthed Uptown: the oldest known map of Charlotte
There are countless treasures hidden in attics, basements, garages… and even Uptown Charlotte office buildings. A recent law firm’s relocation unearthed a rare map and launched a Carolina Room investigation.
Learning Loss and the Library
As we begin to survey the landscape the pandemic has left behind, our focus has been pulled to the impact made on our national education system. Nationally, children returned to the classroom with at least six to eight months of learning and educational development lost to time. The great pivot from in-person to online revealed how ill-prepared U.S. education systems were for such a massive shift in teaching and learning.
But it also uncovered a well of resilience.
Volunteer Betty Verner’s Big Surprise
Currently a volunteer at the Matthews branch, Betty Verner can’t remember a time when the library wasn’t part of her life. She was moved to tears by a thoughtful birthday gift from her son Ritch and daughter-in-law Susan. See what they gave her.
Charles Bowman and the Most Literate City in America
Charles Bowman believes, “Libraries are the land of opportunities. Places where people come together.” Today we celebrate Charles’ retirement of a celebrated career with Bank of America and the many ways he has helped make our community a better place for families. Charles can be described in many ways: attorney, community leader, friend and advocate but our favorite way is library champion.
Are virtual events losing popularity?
If our March 30 event “Conversation with New York Times bestselling author Marie Benedict” is any indicator, the answer is no. With almost 200 people registered for the event, it’s clear that virtual events are here to stay at the Library Foundation, even as our in-person events begin again.
From Seattle to Charlotte: Library Giving Day is coming to your neighborhood
#LibraryGivingDay is a one-day fundraising event on April 6th, with the goal of encouraging people who depend on and enjoy Charlotte Mecklenburg Library to donate.
What is Alicia D. Williams reading?
Rarely does Alicia D. Williams get to read for the simple pleasure of enjoying beautiful sentences or being pulled into lush worlds. But trust her, every single book is savored like a southern meal. She writes children’s and young adult literature, yet she reads a diverse genre of books.
She changed the world with her discovery. Three men took the credit.
Join us for a live conversation on March 30th with New York Times bestselling historical fiction author Marie Benedict about her latest novel Her Hidden Genius. Benedict’s powerful new work shines a light on a woman who sacrificed her life to discover the nature of our very DNA, a woman whose world-changing contributions were hidden by the men around her but whose relentless drive advanced our understanding of humankind. Join the author on Wednesday, March 30th at noon to learn more about the inspiration behind her latest real-life heroine, Rosalind Franklin.
What is Adah Fitzgerald reading?
Adah Fitzgerald knows a few things about a good read – she’s the owner of Main Street Books, Davidson’s local bookstore right on (you guessed it!) Main Street. Next time you’re in Davidson be sure to visit Adah and her staff for even more well-informed recommendations… then check out the Library right across the street.
Digital Innovation Meets Equity at the Library
Connecting people with the information and tools they need to thrive is what libraries do. In May we shared Miranda’s story, a new resident who was unemployed and supporting five children. She was able to get a refurbished laptop through the MeckTech program and start building a better life for her family.
What is Gina Lawrence reading?
0Amount Board Member Gina Lawrence saves by borrowing this list from Charlotte Mecklenburg LibraryHow much do YOU save at the…
Ice Breaking Books for Winter
The quarterly Foundation board meeting opened with the question “What book are you looking forward to reading this Winter?” The…
New Charlotte Mecklenburg Main Library Receives $10 Million Gift From Tepper Foundations
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation is pleased to announce a generous investment of $10 million to The CommonSpark campaign from both The Tepper Foundation and the David and Nicole Tepper Foundation. The Teppers are the owners of the NFL Carolina Panthers and MLS Charlotte Football Club.
“We are excited about being involved in the Library project, which is an investment in opportunity and access for all,” said David Tepper.
Help Wanted… and Received: Verizon grant to energize Library Job Help Centers
The role of the librarian is constantly evolving. Ever the knowledge specialists, select librarians in all 20 branches will be…
How the Foundation is supporting Community Read
The Library’s month-long event — Community Read — inspires an active dialogue through discussions, book clubs and events hosted with community partners. This year’s spokespeople Library CEO and Chief Librarian Marcellus “MT” Turner and Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles will help amplify the importance of this year’s event theme and join a goal of 10,000 participants. That’s 10% of Mecklenburg County!
What is Kelly Adamczyk reading?
0Amount Board Member Kelly Adamczyk saves by borrowing this list from Charlotte Mecklenburg LibraryHow much do YOU save at the…
What’s Dr. Monique Perry-Graves Reading?
The new statewide Executive Director for Teach for America NC shares a few books and podcasts on leadership.
What’s Weston Andress Reading?
With Verse & Vino approaching, we asked the PNC Regional President to share a few meaningful titles
What’s Erique Berry Reading?
A reading list from a Charlotte food blogger and social media personality
What’s Anne Madden Reading?
A reading list from a busy Honeywell executive and Foundation board member.
What’s Jennifer Bennett Reading?
This Foundation board member’s reading habits were changed by the pandemic.
Getting to Know MT
We spoke with the Library’s new CEO and Chief Librarian about libraries, really good burgers, and his vision for the future.
What’s MT Reading?
The Library’s new CEO and Chief Librarian reads – and listens! – to escape and learn.
What Are We All Reading? Most Popular Recommendations
A peek at what’s on signs around town
What’s Charles Thomas Reading?
We asked this tireless Charlotte – and Library! – advocate to share his list
What’s Ted Williams Reading?
The Axios Local GM reads for himself, with his son, and unsurprisingly – he reads local!
Thank You, and Happy Holidays!
A message as we wrap 2020.
We Can, We Do, We Will
Reflections from Lee Keesler, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library CEO
Connecting Community
Together we can provide information and opportunities to engage
Libraries for All
Commitment to a more equitable community
What’s Hannah Terrell Reading?
A reading list for leaders adapting to challenge and change
What’s Amy Hawn Nelson Reading?
For Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s newest trustee, reading is a family affair.
What’s Florence Kim Reading?
Our newest board member is revisiting what she started long ago.
What’s Abby Healy Reading?
What’s the Babe behind @BookBabesCLT reading while she stays home?
What’s Tracy Curtis Reading?
This local author is using quarantine reading to inform her writing.
What’s Ray Jones Reading?
A few key characters helped him switch preferred genres from history to mystery!
From My Home to Yours, 4/13/2020
A video update from the LIbrary Foundation’s executive director
From My Home to Yours, 3/30/2020
A video update from the LIbrary Foundation’s executive director
What’s Caroleen Burroughs Reading?
The Library friend and supporter read 137 books last year!
What’s Ed Williams Reading?
Longtime Library trustee and WFAE’s inaugural First Amendment Award winner shares his reading list.
What’s Bill Tome Doing at the Library?
“I find it relaxing and motivating to see people pursuing their interests”
What are Middle Schoolers Reading?
We hope the kids in your lives have been reading all summer!
What’s Gavin Edwards Reading?
Charlottean, NYT best-seller and Final Draught guest shares his list
What’s Natalie Ridley Reading?
The producer of Charlotte Today on WCNC and Library superfan shared her bookshelf
What’s Patrice Gopo Reading?
The library advocate and author – and her daughters! – share a list.
What’s Glenn Burkins Reading?
The editor and publisher of Qcitymetro shared a literary travelogue.
What’s Dana Eure Reading?
Dana’s spent her career in our libraries and others across North Carolina.
What’s Cristina Wilson Reading?
The COO of the Charlotte Agenda reads when she isn’t writing, working or taking care of her toddler.
What’s Dannye Romine Powell Reading?
If you’re looking for a good read, ask a book reviewer!
What’s Brendan Reichs Reading?
The New York Times best-selling author, Charlotte native and EpicFest favorite reads a lot.
What’s Matt Olin Reading?
Charlotte’s “champion of creativity” reads for a jolt of inspiration.
What’s Brittney Johnson Reading?
The WSOC reporter shares the Library’s impact in the community.
What’s Barb Ellis Reading?
Since retirement, she’s swapped technical journals for biographies and thrillers.
What’s Meredith Heimburger Reading?
She juggles parenting, work and civic commitments – and reading genres.
What’s Jennifer Green Reading?
Board member and 2018 Dancing with the Stars superstar makes time to read.
What’s Joan Zimmerman Reading?
The Southern Shows, Inc founder recently switched to e-books!
What’s Tommy Tomlinson Reading?
We asked a writer a question and he answered with a few stories.
What’s Sally Brewster Reading?
The owner of Park Road Books reads books before they hit the shelves.
What’s Chuck Barger Reading?
The owner of Common Market takes a literary stroll down memory lane.
