Charlotte Mecklenburg Library + Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools = access for 154,000 students
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Charlotte, NC – Thursday, Aug. 6, 2015 - Research projects are about to become much simpler for students in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. That’s because the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the school system are partnering to give all CMS students increased access to the County’s public libraries.
Beginning Sept. 1, approximately 154,000 students [see update below] in 168 schools can use their school identification numbers to check out books, use online tools and access other services at all Library branches and at home via cmlibrary.org.
"Pew Research Center found that 85% of Americans want their libraries to work more closely with local schools to provide resources. Fortunately, we found an incredibly willing partner in Ann Clark and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools," says Lee Keesler, Library CEO.
ONE Access, or “One Number Equals Access,” uses students' school identification numbers instead of separate library cards. With their ONE Access account, students can:
- Access Library research databases
- Borrow digital materials such as e-books, e-audiobooks, magazines, music and video
- Borrow up to 10 print or audio books (no DVDs or music CDs)
There are no overdue fines for ONE Access accounts, but users are responsible for fees on lost books.
"We're excited to see how ONE Access will increase our students' use of a broad range of reading and research material that supports their academic achievement and college preparedness," says CMS Superintendent Ann Clark. "We are working with the Library to meet students where they are: in the classroom, in the media center, at the public library and at home."
All students will automatically be enrolled in this program and be able to use their school ID number to access library services. “The Library and CMS have had very successful library card drives in the past, but this one is different,” says David Singleton, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Director of Libraries. “We wanted the experience to be seamless for students, parents and teachers – and that’s really what inspired us to use the school identification numbers.”
For teachers, the Library offers a free Teacher Loan Card. These cards may borrow up to 30 items for 6 weeks. This effort is part of an ongoing commitment by both organizations to benefit the community by increasing literacy and educational success.
Update on 12/22/2015:
The early enrollment figure for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools was 154,000 at the date of this news release, but by December 22. 2015, had changed to 146,140 students.
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