"When a child walks into a library she has freedom, maybe for the first time. Nobody can tell her what to read, or what to believe."
- Alice Hoffman, author, April, 2017 in Charlotte, NC 

Alice Hoffman's words struck me deeply. Libraries improve lives. 

We get accustomed to reports of annual impact, measured in large numbers - people served, materials circulated, programs delivered and questions answered. But the real impact on individuals is so much harder to quantify, and may not be fully recognized for years. For Alice, her library was a glimpse into a world of opportunities. For staff across your twenty branches, making a difference is all in a day's work.

Last week a librarian introduced an incarcerated teen to a high school program she can enroll in upon her release. Another connected a student nervous about applying to college with a Library guest presenter who was the first in her family to pursue higher education. She served as the student's mentor through the application (and acceptance!) process.

A librarian from the Mint Hill location sums up, "you never know how much something seemingly small might mean to someone else."

I'm grateful to play a small role in a profession that makes such a lasting impact for so many, and always grateful to our generous supporters who make it all possible.

Thank you. 

Jenni Gaisbauer, CFRE
Executive Director

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