For nearly 36 years, Shelia Bumgarner has been the backbone of the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room at the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, dedicating her career to preserving the archives and history of Charlotte, North Carolina. As she retires, her impact on the community, through her passion for history and her connection to the people, leaves a legacy that will be cherished for generations.
Bumgarner began her journey in Burlington, North Carolina, growing up surrounded by woods, creeks, and the adventures of childhood in the 1960s and 70s. Her early love for books and storytelling set the stage for her eventual career. “I loved reading,” she recalls. “I would climb trees to read my books. My Barbies weren’t just dolls; they had magical adventures. They were fairies or good witches. My friends always loved the storylines we created.”
Her academic journey took her to UNC Greensboro, where her father’s advice to pursue classes she loved led her to discover her passion for history. After earning a master’s degree in history, she initially worked as a historic preservation consultant before finding her true calling in librarianship. A pivotal moment came when she helped a library patron uncover her father’s grave through census records and maps, leading to her decision to earn a library degree and take on the role of a historian-librarian.
In her position at the Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room, Bumgarner became the go-to expert for genealogical research and local history. She developed a reputation for her incredible memory, her ability to connect people with their roots, and her love for North Carolina’s rich musical and cultural heritage. “Charlotte has a deep history,” she says. “Every day, I was helping people create a connection to their past.”
Her tenure coincided with dramatic changes in how information is stored and accessed. She adapted as microfilm gave way to digital archives, and card catalogs disappeared in favor of search engines. Yet, she remained committed to teaching patrons how to discern credible sources amid the flood of information available online. “Part of being a librarian is helping people navigate misinformation,” she explains. “Not everything is on the internet, and preserving archival materials is more important than ever.”
Bumgarner’s contributions extended beyond connecting individuals with their ancestry. She collaborated with authors and historians to ensure Charlotte’s stories were told authentically. Her work with novelist Anna Jean Mayhew on Tomorrow’s Bread helped highlight the emotional impact of the displacement of Charlotte’s African American Second Ward community.
Her career also showcased her ability to adapt to the community’s evolving needs. “Back in the day, students would come in for school projects,” she says. “Now, it’s about helping people find unique resources they can’t get anywhere else.” She also served Charlotte’s homeless population, often going above and beyond to assist them, including purchasing a pair of reading glasses for a man who had lost his job and needed to use his laptop.
Bumgarner’s knowledge of Charlotte’s history and her knack for storytelling made her an invaluable resource. She regularly reminded students that they were making history every day, from their clothing styles to the slang they used. “History isn’t just about the past; it’s about understanding how today’s choices shape tomorrow,” she says.
As she steps into retirement, Bumgarner reflects on her career with gratitude. “I’ve been blessed,” she says. “Every day was an opportunity to learn and to serve others. Any chance to pay it forward and be kind enriches your life—I guarantee it.”
Her legacy lives on in the archives she preserved, the people she helped, and the lessons she imparted. For Charlotte, she remains a cherished figure, ensuring the city’s rich and often overlooked history will continue to inspire for years to come.
