The Living Archives project is gathering, preserving, and sharing the stories of Mecklenburg County residents who navigated the COVID-19 virus. Begun in 2021, the project was re-launched in Spring 2022 with a renewed understanding that the COVID-19 experience was on-going and complex. The project was designed with an equity lens, focusing predominantly on Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Indigenous voices often excluded from archives. Over 350 neighbors shared their experiences in audio-visual interviews, poetry, art and written pieces and all of these narratives are available on YouTube and, beginning in June, in perpetuity at the digital Spangler Robinson Carolina Room of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

We have spotlighted 24 of our storytellers through a traveling exhibit reaching every corner of Mecklenburg County. Check out our events page to find out when we will be at an institution near you. Each of our exhibits is accompanied by a celebratory event including free food and raffles and a chance to meet and hear from our storytellers.

You are also invited to join us on April 18th as we unveil a mural from artist Abel Jackson on the wall of the Lions Services building at Eastway and Tryon.  

On May 16th at 6 pm at Discovery Place we are hosting a grand celebration with artists, storytellers, the exhibit, food, and fun. The entire first floor of Discovery Place will be open for exploration and all ages are welcomed and encouraged to join us.  Register so we can welcome you in style.