The library system of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County had always grown and diversified to reach the citizens of Mecklenburg wherever they lived, including in electronic communities. It applied the newest telecommunication technologies to the historic mission of the library to facilitate upward mobility and personal improvement. Recognition of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s achievements in these areas came from Library Journal, which named it the “Library of the Year” in 1995. The article noted its “commitment to serving all citizens” and concluded that it was “the library to study if you want to be the library of the future.” (Berry, 1995)John Berry, "Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County" (cover story) Library Journal, Vol. 120, Issue 11 (6/15/1995), p.32 “Bravo, library!” exclaimed an editorial headline in the Charlotte Observer. “The library has shown uncommon vigor and imagination.” (Charlotte Observer, 5/22/1995)“Bravo, Library!” Charlotte Observer, May 22, 1995, p.6A Other awards included the “Library of the Future Award” from the American Library Association, which was announced during National Library Week in April of 1996, the same week that the library launched its own website [1].

Works Cited:

• Berry, John. "Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County." Library Journal, Vol. 120, Issue 11 (June 15, 1995), p.32
• “Bravo, Library!” Charlotte Observer, May 22, 1995, [Editorial] p.6A