Hello ,

We're only fifteen days in, and 2021 already feels heavy. With so much colliding at once it’s overwhelming to keep up, let alone process it all.

Library CEO Lee Keesler sent an email this week to staff, reflecting on the state of the world. The words at the top of this page inspired him to focus on what we can do as a Library system. Some of those efforts - like a living history documentary project - are featured in the articles below, and wouldn't be possible without the partnership and support of individuals, organizations and corporations throughout this community. 

Lee noted that Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has four critical assets that make us uniquely equipped to help repair some of the dysfunction we’re all seeing:

• Truth, actively shared and defended
• Trust, earned over 120 years
• Kindness, and respect in every interaction
• Justice, and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

I’ve never been more proud to be a part of this organization and to work with colleagues and kind, generous donors who always believe things can get better and who make the seemingly impossible become possible.

Thank you,

Jenni Gaisbauer, CFRE
Executive Director

P.S. Even while we're staying apart, your Library continues to offer a full calendar of virtual programs - and it's not all for kids! Subscribe to the Adult Services monthly newsletter to stay informed about everything from book clubs to learning circles.