Community Read Returns in March at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

Food brings people closer together. So do stories about food.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library announces the return of Community Read in March with a focus on creating community dialogue around themes of food as a community and cultural connector. Community Read is the Library’s monthlong effort to have the community read or listen to books of current and relevant topics and participate in discussions, book clubs and events hosted by the Library and community partners.

The signature title, “Buttermilk Graffiti” by Edward Lee, includes a scheduled appearance by the author on March 19 at ImaginOn. Adults are encouraged to read and discuss the main title, as well as selected companion titles for children and teens including “Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet” by Laekan Zea Kemp, “Measuring Up” by Lily LaMotte and “Thank You, Omu!” by Oge Mora.

All four titles are available for free at every Library location while supplies last and are also available for digital download. Library-created cookbooks are available at all locations while supplies last.

While there are Community Read programs and events at Library locations throughout March, below are the featured “Meet the Author” events:

Meet Lily LaMotte
Wednesday, March 6 at 6 p.m. – North County Regional Library
Come meet Lily LaMotte, the author of the 2024 Community Read middle grade selection, “Measuring Up.” Listen to Ms. LaMotte speak about the inspiration for her book, writing a graphic novel and how food connects us to community. Copies of her book will be available for purchase.

Meet Oge Mora
Thursday, March 7 at 6 p.m. – SouthPark Regional Library
Come meet Oge Mora, the author of the 2024 Community Read picture book selection, “Thank You, Omu!” Listen to Ms. Mora speak about the inspiration for her book and how food connects us to community. Copies of her book will be available for purchase.

Meet Laekan Zea Kemp
March 11, 14 and 26 – Online Events
Celebrate reading and join Laekan Zea Kemp, author of our Community Read teen companion title, “Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet.” There will be three opportunities to connect with the author and all can be accessed online for free:

March 11 – Online Author Talk
March 14 – Teens Live on Instagram
March 26 – Teen Book Club

Meet Edward Lee
Tuesday, March 19 at 6:30 p.m. – ImaginOn
To celebrate Community Read 2024, join us for a presentation at ImaginOn on Tuesday, March 19th at 6:30pm in the McColl Theatre by author and chef, Edward Lee of “Buttermilk Graffiti.” Lee will discuss his experience investigating the culinary journey of American immigrants.

From celebrating recipes created in their homeland to blending cultures with their new communities, Lee highlights the unique evolution of the American chef. We will host a small reception beginning at 5:30pm in the Round also at ImaginOn (register separately for this event). After the presentation, books will be available to purchase and for signing.

As a leader in this effort, the Library will be joined by community partners to enhance the reach and impact of this significant reading event. Organizations like the Hope Street Food Pantry, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, ReadDavidson, Community Matters Cafe, Johnson & Wales University and so many more will support activities and participate in Library programs to promote the value of reading and literacy throughout the community.

To learn more about Community Read, visit cmlibrary.org/community-read.To learn more about Community Read events and programs, visit cmlibrary.org/events.