Transformations, Fall 2025: This blog is excerpted from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation’s newsletter. To join our mailing list and receive the newsletter by mail, click here to enter your information. Physical copies of the newsletter are available at all Library locations. Digital versions of all issues can be found here.

A new recurring donor, we asked Alyssa a few questions to uncover why she booked her monthly support.

What inspired you to become a monthly donor to the Library?

I’ve always been a voracious (and quick) reader. When I was a kid, my parents didn’t always have the funds to buy me books, because I would just speed through. It was because of that I would rely on the local library systems: classroom libraries, school libraries, you name it. Accessibility to books, technology, and other necessary resources is incredibly important to me for that reason. I remember what it was like to be the kid that couldn’t afford more than one book at the book fair.

Do you have a favorite branch?

I love my local Steele Creek branch. It’s small but mighty, the staff there is always lovely, and it has a beautiful outdoor reading area.

What does “Library” mean to you?

It means freedom of expression, building literacy and critical thinking skills… and even things like empathy when you learn about experiences that aren’t just your own.

What would you say to someone who’s considering becoming a monthly donor?

It’s hands down one of the most fulfilling things I could spend my hard-earned money on, and I love being able to say I help fund the extremely important work the Library does, even if only a little bit.