Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Charleston, SC – The Charleston Metro Chamber has announced the Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) as the recipient of the Community Impact Champion award, one of seven Honors awards presented by the Chamber. This award is presented to a business or individual who has exhibited a commitment to the community by demonstrating an active leadership role through their involvement in business, civic and social service organizations. 

“CCPL is deeply grateful and humbled to receive this prestigious award from the Metro Chamber of Commerce,” said CCPL Executive Director Angela Craig. “Our shared commitment to fostering economic mobility and empowering communities through education and technology lies at the heart of our work.” 

With more than 70 partnerships, CCPL is rooted in collaboration, leveraging local experts, business leaders, educators and community organizations to help provide its patrons access to resources and information that can better help them reach their personal and professional goals and increase their quality of life. CCPL staff also sit on multiple community, regional, and national boards and committees to ensure the Library is up to date with best practices, trends, news and information, but also to have a seat at the table to voice the needs of patrons who rely on the library as an information and resource hub. 

CCPL provides access to technology by providing free Wi-Fi and computers to the public in all 18 branches and by lending mobile hot spots and laptops. Also, the libraries provide support in digital literacy and workforce development, providing one-on-one assistance and through hosting programs and courses. CCPL also provides free access to several digital resources related to workforce development including an online language learning program, Mango, on-demand video tutorials that cover several industry-related skills, LinkedIn Learning, and practice exams and guides for industry-specific licensing and exams through LearningExpress, among other online resources. Those can be found at www.ccpl.org/databases.  

“Together, we're breaking down barriers, creating pathways to success, and putting people first,” continued Craig. “As we embark on the next 20 years, we're excited to continue our collaboration, enhancing access to high-quality education, supporting families, and ensuring that everyone can easily reach the invaluable resources offered by our libraries and public services.” 

Charleston County Public Library will be presented with this award on May 22 at The Honors awards ceremony, which will recognize the achievements of local organizations and leaders with an exemplary commitment to the region's economic development and quality of life. The evening will feature connections and entertainment, Honors award presentations, including the prestigious Joseph P. Riley Award, along with performances by talented local artists. 

“We are thrilled to spotlight this group of leaders and businesses who are creating a profound impact on our community,” said Bryan Derreberry, President and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber. “Their commitment to bettering our region is inspiring and we look forward to celebrating them at The Honors.”