I will be visiting the Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County in the near future and I can’t wait to tell you about my visit. Charles Brown has served as PLCMC’s Director of Libraries since December 2003. This is a library that is innovative from the inside out. They recently hired David Singleton as “Director of Library Experiences.” What a great title!

This is the library that created “23 Things,” a model that has been adapted by hundreds of libraries to help staff master Web 2.0 tools and technologies. Staff were encouraged to try out blogging, podcasting, tagging, etc., over a nine week period. Those who completed the program received an MP3 player, and the person who won the raffle drawing at the end of the program received a new laptop.

This library is not shy. As part of their strategic planning process, the Library Board, in support of a major restructuring effort initiated by staff, has adopted the goal to be “America’s Best Library by 2010.”

PLCMC has some outstanding programs and partnerships in place. “Tricycle Music Fest” is a fun-filled concert just for kids.

This year’s lineup of performers included the Jellydots (video featured below) and They Might be Giants. Incredible, isn’t it?

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Did I mention PLCMC’s creative partnership with the Children’s Theater of Charlotte? Here’s a description from their website of “ImaginOn.”

“Plans for ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, began in 1997 when two colleagues had an idea.

Bob Cannon, the former Executive Director of the Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County (PLCMC), and Bruce LaRowe, Executive Director of Children’s Theatre of Charlotte (CTC) each led organizations with great programs for young people…and both were running out of space.

Bob and Bruce thought it would make sense to consider creating a new, shared facility, to meet the growing needs of both organizations. But not just a combination library/theatre – they imagined a new type of facility, and an original approach to education, learning and the arts. The more they thought about the possibilities, the more they realized PLCMC & CTC shared much more than a need for more space – they also shared a powerful mission: bringing stories to life.

In early 2004, Library Director Charles Brown joined the library, and has since worked with Bruce and dozens of library and theatre staff members to ensure ImaginOn’s success. At ImaginOn, young people learn in many ways, through all five senses and “from the page to the stage.” It is the launching pad for remarkable journeys and endless possibilities.”

As if that isn’t enough, ImaginOn is the first public building in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County certified by the US Green Building Council.

The staff at PLCMC has asked me to present a program discussing all of New Jersey’s innovative programs and ideas, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to brag about all the wonderful things you are all doing.