Press Contact:
Cordelia Anderson, Deputy Director of Marketing & Communications
704-416-0712 (voice)
canderson@cmlibrary.org

November 24, 2009 (Charlotte, NC) – Just nine months after it was first recognized among the top libraries in the country in a national index of public library service from the Library Journal, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has once again been designated a “Five-Star” library.

The Library Journal Index of Public Library Service is a “star” rating system similar to the Michelin and Mobile guides used for restaurants and hotels. First in February 2009, then again in November 2009, they have given the Library a Five-Star rating, the highest possible. The inclusion of the Library in this select grouping is a credit not only to the organization and its employees, but also to the community that it serves.

In addition to its Five-Star rating, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is the only library system in NC that earned a star rating on the LJ Index. Among 15 libraries in comparable budget categories, the Library ranked #5 in overall score and was one of only 3 library systems in the Southeast to receive a Five-Star rating (there were two in Florida). In addition, in its budget category, the Library ranked #1 in program attendance per capita.

The current LJ Index is based on 2007 data reported by local libraries to their state library agencies and compiled by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This is an index of public library service, determined equally by four output indicators: visits, circulation, program attendance, and public Internet computer use. The LJ Index rated a total of 7,268 public libraries from across the nation. For Fact Sheet and more information about the LJ Index, visit . www.libraryjournal.com/ljindex2009.

Since its founding in 1903 as a Carnegie Free Library, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has provided community service and outreach to the citizens of the Charlotte area. The Library has been recognized as a “Five Star” library in a national index of public library service from the Library Journal and was named winner of the 2006 National Award for Library Service. The Library sponsors a variety of community-based programs, from computer and Internet workshops to the award-winning Novello Festival of Reading, a celebration of the joys of reading and learning. With 24 locations, 1.4 million volumes, 79,000 DVDs, CDs and audiobooks, and a vast selection of titles available to download from the Library’s web site, the Library is dedicated to its mission of expanding minds, empowering individuals and enriching the community. www.cmlibrary.org