Mesa Public Library February 2024 Newsletter

Reasons to LOVE Reading!

Makes you smarter

You get to meet a lot of new friends in books

Books are conversat great io starters n

Some books feel like a warm hug

es us “Reading givgo when o someplace te to stay we hav are.” where we ley -Mason Coo

Computers & Technology COMPUTER BASICS † Wednesdays | 2:00pm – 3:30pm | MN If you are new to the computer or just want to know more about how it works, then Computer Basics is the place to start! Laptops and mice are provided to the first 11 participants to use in class. Feb 7 – Keyboard/typing basics Feb 14 & 21 – Microsoft Word Feb 28 – Microsoft PowerPoint

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INTRODUCTION TO MICROSOFT EXCEL † Tues | Feb 6 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | DR Learn the foundations of Microsoft Excel, including how to create, edit, and format data in a spreadsheet. † Prerequisite: Must be comfortable using a mouse and a keyboard.

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INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED EXCEL † Wed | Feb 7 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | DR Learn how to sort, filter, freeze panes, conduct basic math, and create charts. Then learn advanced Excel topics like pivot tables, how to use multiple spreadsheets, absolute references, vlookup, and other techniques. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel is required. USING LIBRARY APPS TO DOWNLOAD EBOOKS Mon | Feb 26 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR Learn how to use the Libby and CloudLibrary apps to download ebooks and audiobooks from the Library to your smartphone or tablet. Please bring your library card, device, email address, and password. If you are using a Kindle, please bring your Amazon account information.

Great entertainment

“A book i you hold s a dream that in your -Neil Ga hand.” iman

our Opens up y world

Helps you grow

Reduces stress

February 2024 News & Events

DONATE DAY: BOOK DONATION DRIVE Sat | Feb 17 | 9:00am – 12:00pm | MN Donate books, magazines, movies, and music without leaving your car! Volunteers will be on hand to unload your donation. One hundred percent of the proceeds from our used book sales stay with the library to support programs and services. Can’t make it? We accept ongoing donations at the Main Library. Visit mesalibrary.org/donate to learn more.

Escape fro m reality

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact us. HOURS OF OPERATION Monday 10:00am – 8:00pm Tuesday 10:00am – 8:00pm Wednesday 10:00am – 8:00pm Thursday 10:00am – 8:00pm Friday 10:00am – 5:00pm Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm Sunday Closed

MAIN LIBRARY (MN) & THINKSPOT @ MAIN

64 E. 1st St. DOBSON RANCH LIBRARY (DR) & THINKSPOT @ DOBSON RANCH 2425 S. Dobson Rd. RED MOUNTAIN LIBRARY (RM)

All three full-service locations are open Mon-Sat 9am– 10am, for self-service. Additional self-service hours are available at the Dobson Ranch Library (Mon-Sat 7am9am) with Expanded Access technology. Mesa Express Library (MEL) is open Mon-Sat 7am-8pm using Expanded Access technology. MEL hold lockers are available during park hours (sunrise–10pm).

& THINKSPOT @ RED MOUNTAIN

635 N. Power Rd.

480-644-3100 mesalibrary.org

MESA EXPRESS LIBRARY (MEL) AT MONTEREY PARK

7045 E. Monterey Ave.

To sign up for Expanded Access, see a staff member.

☑ Indicates registration required. Visit mesalibrary.org or call to register. Check our online calendar for the most up-to-date information.

How to Read this Guide: ☑ 🎟 ⚙

HOLIDAY HOURS

Need a library card? Scan this code to apply online!

Registration required

Ticketed event

Tickets are handed out 30 min prior to program start.

THINKspot Program

Look for this icon to make and create in THINKspot—a makerspace with technology and equipment for all your projects. To learn more about equipment and training visit: mesalibrary.org/thinkspot

Library Card Application mesalibrary.org/getacard

Mon | February 19 | CLOSED

KIDS

LET’S PLAY! Sat | Feb 3 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN Join us for a morning of play. Your child will learn a variety of skills exploring different interest areas. A materials kit with the theme will be available for check out. Ages 3-5.

WALK-IN WEDNESDAYS Wednesdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN Make a craft, listen to a story, or conduct an experiment. Something fun will be happening on Wednesday afternoons in the Youth Activity Room.

ASK A MASTER GARDENER Sat | Feb 10 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners are certified volunteers who will answer questions about gardening and landscaping.

CRAFT-IN MOVIE: MULAN Wed | Feb 7 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | DR Celebrate the Chinese New Year by watching Mulan and participating in themed crafts.

LUNCHTIME TALES Wed | Feb 28 | 12:30pm – 1:00pm | MEL Bring a lunch, listen to a story, and create something all your own. Ages 5-12.

FAMILY MATINEE: WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Sat | Feb 3 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm | MN Watch the classic movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Rated G.

SUPER TOGETHER SATURDAYS Sat | Feb 3, 10 | 10:30am – 11:30am | DR Join local author Kimberly Rose and Mesa Arts Center’s Literacy thru Drama Program for an exciting storytelling adventure! In this two-part program, children and their families will act, write and perform their own stories using Rose’s book, Super Together, a heartwarming story about two friends, for inspiration.

YOUNG GARDENERS FUNFEST WITH MESA URBAN GARDEN Thurs | Feb 15 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN Celebrate the arrival of spring! We will have seed planting, flower dissection, plant pressing and bookmark making with Mesa Urban Garden master gardeners.

BUYING YOUR FIRST HOUSE Sat | Feb 17 | 10:00am – 11:00am | DR Buying a house can be intimidating. This seminar will help you prepare for crucial aspects of the process.

MAKE YOUR OWN PICTURES STORYTIME Mon | Feb 12 | 4:00pm – 4:30pm | MN Aspiring artists and their families are invited to try their hand at being a book illustrator and draw a picture based on the storybooks read by our librarian! Ages 5-8.

Parenting ☑

KITH & KIN PROJECT CAREGIVER CLASSES Mon | Feb 5, 12, 26 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | MN The Kith & Kin Project is a 12-week class that provides training and support to family, friend, and neighbor (FFN) caregivers. Each weekly session focuses on a specific topic and includes information sharing, discussion, skill building, and activities. Groups are held in a supportive format where participants learn from their instructor as well as each other. Register by January 22.

Storytimes BABY LAPSIT Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | DR Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | MN Fridays | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM Introduces the rhythm and beauty of language to babies ages birth-16 months. BEDTIME STORIES Tues | Feb 20 | 5:30pm – 6:00pm | MN Enjoy stories and songs that get your little one ready for bed. Jammies, blankets, and stuffed animals are welcome! DESIGN TIME STORYTIME Sat | Feb 17 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN This storytime introduces the creative process of art and design to families through songs, stories, games, and interactive plugged and unplugged activities. Ages 3-6. FAMILY STORYTIME Sat | Feb 3 | 10:30am – 11:00am | MEL Bring the whole family for stories, songs, and literacy-boosting activities. Birth-5.

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PRESCHOOL STORYTIME PRESENTS: LITTLE MAKERS PLAYTIME Wed | Feb 28 | 9:30am – 10:30am | RM Join us for STEAM-based toys and games. TINKERING FOR TODDLERS Fri | Feb 9 | 10:00am – 11:00am | DR A STEAM-based storytime that gives toddlers the opportunity to explore, be curious, and practice independent thinking. Ages 2-4.

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TWEENS ⚙

ages 8-12

APP ARTIST Tues | Feb 13, 27 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN Learn vector graphics, raster graphics, pixel graphics, animation, and more. Limited to the first 8 participants.

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CRAFT-ISH: LET’S PAINT! Tues | Feb 6, 20 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN We’ll cut, glue, and draw away the afternoon! Supplies are limited. DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Wed | Feb 7 | 3:30pm – 5:00pm | MN Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons® with an experienced player. Already know how to play? Come in and use the space to lead your own campaign.

TEENS

ages 12-18

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ADVENTURES IN VR: WORLD TOUR Sat | Feb 3 | 2:00pm – 3:30pm | MN Join us as we test out apps and explore new virtual places. This month we’ll explore iconic landmarks, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes—no passport needed!

FANTASY READERS UNITE! Wed | Feb 21 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR Love fantasty books? Join us for this monthly group! This month we will discuss Fablehaven by Brandon Mull.

CRAF-TEEN: PAINTING SERIES Thurs | Feb 8 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN This isn’t your ordinary craft program, it’s a cool craft program! Learn a new painting technique each month.

KINDNESS ROCKS! Wed | Feb 14 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM Paint a kindness rock, then take it home or leave it for a community art display in our Monarch Garden.

GAMING AT THE LIBRARY Thurs | Feb 29 | 4:00pm – 6:00pm | MN Unwind with games in the Teen Zone. Play Nintendo Switch, Xbox One S, or one of our many board and card games.

MARDI GRAS BEAD PAINTING Wed | Feb 14 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR Make a painting using Mardi Gras beads instead of a paintbrush.

GAMING HOUR Wed | Feb 14, 28 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | RM Hang out and play games in THINKspot. Feb 14 - Mario Party for Nintendo Switch Feb 28 - Beat Saber on the VR headset

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THINKSPOT STEM LAB Wed | Feb 21 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN Stop by for some imaginative STEM-based exploration. You can be a scientist, computer programmer, engineer, mathematician...the possibilities are endless! TWEEN CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Wed | Feb 28 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR Each month, we will try different creative writing prompts, exercises, and games. You can also bring your own writing to share with the group. VALENTINE’S DAY CARD MAKING Wed | Feb 7 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM Make a card for someone special.

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CRAFT NIGHT Wed | Feb 21 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR Try your hand at a low-stress craft night. This month we’ll make no-sew fleece heart pillows.

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LET’S EAT! Thurs | Feb 1 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN Join us on a delicious journey as we explore the art of cooking with step-bystep guidance from our culinary enthusiast librarians. Bon appétit! MATH TUTORING FOR TEENS Tuesdays | 3:00pm – 5:00pm | RM Former math teacher Mr. Rogowski will help with homework, tests, and notes.

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TEEN ADVISORY BOARD: BECOME A MEMBER! Sat | Feb 10 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm | RM Join our Teen Advisory Board! TAB is a group of library teen volunteers who not only help the library and community, but take an active leadership role in implementing programs, promoting, and advocating for youth services. TEEN ART GALLERY Mon | Feb 26 | 5:00pm – 6:00pm | MN Create your own masterpiece for the Teen Zone art gallery and/or bring in an already made creation! Please submit art with a name and contact information. TEEN MATINEE: TWILIGHT Wed | Feb 14 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN Watch Twilight in the Teen Zone and enjoy some snacks! TRUE CRIME SOLVERS Thurs | Feb 22 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN We will be solving true crime cases with real case file evidence!

COLORING CLUB Thurs | Feb 1 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | RM Relax and color your stress away.

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DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS® Sat | Feb 17 | 3:30pm – 5:00pm | MN Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons® with an experienced player. Already know how to play? Come in and use the space to lead your own campaign.

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EMBROIDERY MACHINE DEMONSTRATION Thurs | Feb 22 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR Take a look at THINKspot’s Brother SE1900 Embroidery Machine. ESL CONVERSATION CLASS Saturdays | 1:00pm – 2:30pm | MN Saturdays | 1:00pm – 3:00pm | RM Practice English listening and speaking skills. Please bring a notebook and pencil. FROM IDEA TO PUBLISHING: HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL Sat | Feb 3 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM Local author Kelli Donley will take you from idea to finished product in the novel writing process. Her books will be available for sale and signing after the presentation.

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INTRODUCTION TO PRANIC HEALING Thurs | Feb 22 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR Prana, or life-force energy, is all around us. Learn the basics of this meditation technique. LEATHER HELMETS: THE FORGOTTEN HISTORY OF THE ARIZONA CARDINALS Thurs | Feb 8 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN Join us for surprising insights into the early days of football in Arizona. Presented by author and historian Joe Ziemba.

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LET’S PLAY WITH PAPER Tues | Feb 20 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | RM Enjoy an hour of paper crafting. This month we’ll make flowers from recycled book pages.

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LET’S EAT! Wed | Feb 7 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN Join us on a delicious journey as we explore the art of cooking with step-by-step guidance from our culinary enthusiast librarians. Bon appétit! MEDITATION Thurs | Feb 8 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR Experience the Meditation on Twin Hearts, a short and simple meditation that can be done comfortably seated in a chair.

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OPEN MIC NIGHT Tues | Feb 27 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN Join us for Open Mic Night at the library. Local author Austin Davis will join in by reading some of his poems. Performers are allowed two songs or poems (10 min total).

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ONE STITCH AT A TIME Tuesdays | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM Hang out with us at this relaxed, social crochet circle. Instructor-led lessons and materials will be available to beginners. All ages and skill levels are welcome. PUZZLE SWAP Sat | Feb 10 | 12:00pm – 1:00pm | DR Exchange your gently-used puzzle for a new-to-you puzzle! Bring in your jigsaw puzzle in its box (please check to make sure all the pieces are there!). Drop off your puzzle(s) at Dobson Ranch Library from Saturday, February 3 to Friday, February 9. You’ll receive a coupon for each puzzle you bring in. Attend the Puzzle Swap on February 10 to exchange your coupons for puzzles. Puzzles for all ages welcome, limit 5 coupons per family.

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PUZZLE COMPETITION Sat | Feb 10 | 2:15pm – 4:30pm | DR Brush off your jigsaw puzzle skills! Teams of 2-3 will go head-to-head in completing a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle in less than two hours. Have one person from your team register. Winning team will get a special creation from THINKspot. ROSES AND ARIZONA Thurs | Feb 22 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MEL Join us for a Q & A session with a Master Gardener Rosarian on how to grow roses in Arizona.

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SEWING MACHINE BASICS Wed | Feb 7 | 1:30pm – 4:00pm | RM Learn the basics of our Brother CS6000i sewing machines. Once we learn how to thread the needle and wind a bobbin, we will practice sewing straight stitches and make a simple sewing project.

ADULTS ☑

SHARING YOUR DNA RESULTS WITH OTHER SERVICES Sat | Feb 3 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM Genealogist Ken Waters will show you how to download your DNA kit from one company and upload it to other services, and why this is recommended.

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SMART CYCLING FUNDAMENTALS Wed | Feb 21 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN Join us for an introductory workshop on how to start bicycling. You’ll get practical tips on how to plan your ride and what you can do to stay safe on the road. All participants will receive a free “Get Started Safely” kit that includes a helmet, bicycle lights, and more. Ages 12+. Presented by City of Mesa Bicycle and Pedestrian Program. TALK SCIENCE WITH AZMNH Thurs | Feb 22 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN Embark on an exploration of prehistoric times with a lecture led by an expert in the field. Sponsored by the Arizona Museum of Natural History Foundation.

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VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) PROGRAM Tues – Friday | Jan 30 – Apr 12 10:00am – 2:30pm | RM VITA offers free tax help to those who generally make $64,000 or less annually, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. IRS-certified volunteers from Mesa United Way will provide basic income tax return preparation to qualified individuals. Registration is required for 10am-12pm sessions; please see our online events calendar for more information. Walk-in services will be available 12pm-2:30pm, first come, first served. WHAT TO SAY? Sat | Feb 17 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM Local author Kelli Donley will explain how to capture your audience with strong dialogue. Her books will be available for sale and signing after the presentation.