This is part of our Smarty reading series written by the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.
When was the last time you went to the library? Was it to pick up a hold? Check your email? Maybe take your kids to storytime? While libraries are often known for their computer access, comfy chairs and shelves of books, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers a lot more than that!
Most people know they can get books and (even e-books!) at the Library, but a lot of people don’t know about all the community events we host all across Charlotte. We use Meetup.com to post a handpicked few of our special events and to reach communities that haven’t discovered the Library yet.
So What DO we have?
Most locations have recurring events that range from the literary to the social. Here is a sample of some of our monthly programs at a few locations.
The Millennial Meetup, Beatties Ford Road Library
Different event each month for the 18-35 demographic.
This month: DYI Paper Lanterns
20s and 30s Book Club, Plaza Midwood Library
Millennial book club focusing on international authors offered on one Saturday morning a month. This month: East of Eden
Mecklenburg Marauders, University City Regional Library
Harry Potter meet up for muggles! Get sorted into Houses, discuss the books, and play Potter related games. Evenings once a month.
Poetry Reading Group, Plaza Midwood Library
Come share an original piece or favorite poem or simply enjoy the poetic works of others. Third Mondays at 6 p.m.
We also have lots of special programs for adults throughout the year from guest speakers to coding workshops to DIY programs at our uptown Makerspace.
3D Modeling with Tinkercad, Main Library Idea Box
Learn about 3D modeling techniques with Tinkercad, a free browser-based software. January 19 @ 12 p.m.
Writing and Publishing Panel, Matthews Library
Meet other local writers, editors and publishers and hear from our panel. January 22 @ 7 p.m.
Comic Adaptations in TV and Film, Plaza Midwood Library
Join local comic and movie enthusiast Andy Mansell from HeroesCon for a lively discussion. January 25 @ 6 p.m.
Upcycled Art, Main Library Idea Box
Create upcycled art such as decoupage bookends, tin can lanterns, paper jewelry, book folding and other activities that involve the reuse of materials. February 4 @ 6 p.m.
Intro to Coding Skills, Matthews Library
Learn coding skills in a group setting facilitated by library staff. We’ll cover content used in websites that teach step-by-step coding instruction such as Codecademy. February 27 @ 2 p.m.
Now what?
Meetup.com has been helping connect people within their communities since 2001. What better way to connect our community to the Library? We post events regularly on our Meetup page and we also post the full list of all of our events on our website (including events for children and teens). Join the conversation on Meetup, and we’ll see you offline!
