If you're interested in shaping the future of the Charlotte Library system, now's your chance. You have until 5 p.m. today to submit your application, which you can find here (top right corner).

Direct from the library:

The charge of the Future of the Library Task Force will be to develop strategic alternatives to ensure a sustainable future for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. Task Force members must be residents of Mecklenburg County, and meet the requirements outlined in the application form. Forms will be accepted by Vandever Batten, the firm that is facilitating the Design phase of the Task Force. Citizens with questions about the application process may contact Frances Thompson at Vandever Batten at fthompson@vandeverbatten.com or (704) 376-3456.

The Future of the Library Task Force was first proposed during the spring budget cycle, when stakeholders began discussing the need to create a stable funding platform for the Library. At their budget straw vote, the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners made the creation of a task force part of its contingency for library funding for FY2011. In July, the Library received a grant for $75,000 from the Community Catalyst Fund of the Foundation For The Carolinas to fund the Task Force, and Dr. Jim Woodward accepted the role of Chair. Grant funds will be used to defray expenses of the Task Force, beyond what is donated or provided by Library and County staff.

The Task Force will comprise 12-15 members with experience and skills in finance, human resources, legal, market research, multi-site service operations, municipal administration, organizational restructuring, public-private partnerships and public relations. The Task Force will be charged with making recommendations to the Library Board of Trustees and the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners.

The Task Force members will be appointed by the Task Force Chair in consultation with the Library and Mecklenburg County as well as other funding stakeholders. Additional public involvement opportunities also will be provided later in the process for citizens to provide input and feedback.

Read more here.