News Summary
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library will close all branches from April 18 to April 23, 2024, for a software update aimed at improving user experience. Additionally, the Myers Park branch will undergo renovations from January 16 to January 23, 2024. Community members can still access other branches during this time.
Big Changes Ahead for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Users!
Charlotte, we have some news coming your way! All branches of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library (CML) will be closing their doors for a little while, from April 18 to April 23, 2024. Why the temporary shutdown, you ask? It’s all part of a scheduled software update aimed at making the library experience smoother for everyone!
What’s the Scoop on the Software Update?
The brand new software is designed to help library staff manage and check out materials more efficiently. Plus, it’ll allow you to place holds with greater ease! Isn’t that exciting? Although this upgrade means a bit of a disruption for library users, keep in mind that the intention is to enhance the library’s effectiveness in the long run. It’s about making your library visits even better!
What to Expect Before the Closure
Now, here comes the interesting part: starting in March 2024, you’ll notice some changes. From March 22, 2024, you can check out physical materials for a whopping six weeks, which is a fantastic extension from the usual three-week borrowing period! However, don’t get too comfy! The standard three-week loan period will make its grand return on April 12, 2024. Library officials recognize that while these temporary changes might be a little annoying, they have your best interests at heart.
Myers Park Library Also Getting a Facelift
But wait, there’s more! For those who frequent the Myers Park Library branch, make a note: it will close for renovations from January 16 to January 23, 2024. Don’t fret too much, though – it will be reopening on January 24, 2024. A bit of hustle now will lead to a much shinier library for all!
Main Library is Getting a Major Overhaul
And if you think that’s it, you’d be mistaken! The Main Library at 310 N. Tryon St. will be clamping down its doors to help kick off the construction of a new “destination” main library. This includes renovations to nearby facilities like Spirit Square and the historic McGlohon Theater. This extensive $154.5 million project is set for completion in late 2025, which sadly is over a year later than originally planned. Mark your calendars! The Main Library will close at 5 p.m. on October 29, 2023.
Finding Your Library Fix While Main Library is Closed
No need to panic if the Main Library is out of commission. During this closure, all library lovers are invited to check out other branches for services like browsing, borrowing, and even classes or workshops. Nearby locations include the Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library, Myers Park Library, Plaza Midwood Library, South Boulevard Library, Sugar Creek Library, and West Boulevard Library.
You can also look forward to interim uptown library locations such as CMLibrary @ Founders Hall and CMLibrary @ College Street, coming soon! Specific opening dates will be announced later.
Your 24/7 Access to Library Materials
While the Main Library will be closed, fear not! You will still have 24/7 access to library materials through the library’s website, cmlibrary.org. Plus, returning items won’t be a hassle either – just drop them off at any of the other 19 library locations, including ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center.
For those who previously placed holds for pickup at the Main Library, note that this service ended on October 15, 2023. However, items you placed on hold before that date can be picked up until October 29, 2023, and afterward, they will be relocated to Plaza Midwood Library starting November 1, 2023.
We Want Your Input!
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library leaders are also eager for your thoughts on their new Sugar Creek Library project. This is your chance to share what you would like to see in your local library!
So gear up for these changing times, and get ready for an even better library experience in our beloved Charlotte!
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Additional Resources
- Axios: Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Temporarily Closed
- Wikipedia: Library
- Charlotte Ledger: Ways of Life – A University Librarian
- Google Search: Library Updates
- Charlotte Observer: Local News
- Google Scholar: Library Management
- Gulfshore Business: Charlotte County Library Reopening
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Library
- Fox 4 Now: Early Voting in Florida
- Google News: Library News
