SPRING EQUINOX IN THE MONARCH GARDEN
Sat | Mar 18 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM
Celebrate the spring equinox at the Monarch Haven and Reading Sanctuary at Red Mountain Library.
Southwest Monarch Study, City of Mesa Environmental and Sustainability staff and other special guests will share their expertise and provide giveaways.
The spring equinox marks the start of the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere. The official spring equinox occurs on Monday, March 20, 2023 at 8:33 a.m.
March 2023 News & Events
READ ON MESA LITERACY SUMMIT
Sat | Mar 4 | 10:00am – 2:00pm | DR
Read On Mesa is a community literacy initiative. This literacy resource event will provide an opportunity to engage with all of the different literacy programs and resources available in our community. Families can learn important information about literacy in their child’s education. Plus, sign up to volunteer for the cause, drop off book donations, attend readings from special guests, enter a raffle to win prizes and much more!
How to Read this Guide:
visit mesalibrary.org/thinkspot.
DONATE DAY: BOOK DONATION DRIVE
Sat | Mar 25 | 9:00am – 12:00pm | RM
Donate books, magazines, movies, and music without leaving your car!
Volunteers will be on hand to unload your donation. Can’t make it? Visit mesalibrary.org/donate to learn more about donations.
newsletter is recyclable. For recycling information, visit mesarecycles.org
a library card? Scan this code to apply online! Library Card Application mesalibrary.org/getacard ☑ Registration required ⚙ THINKspot Program
This
Need
Look for this icon to make and create in THINKspot—a makerspace inside our libraries. THINKspot has the technology and equipment for all your projects. To learn more about available equipment and training
KIDS
FIRST 5 PAGES BOOK CLUB
Mon | Mar 27 | 4:00pm – 4:30pm | MN
We’ll read the first five pages of the book of the month and follow up with a related activity. This month we will be reading File Under: 13 Suspicious Incidents by Lemony Snicket and solving secret codes! Ages 6-11.
HAPPILY EVER CRAFTER
Thurs | Mar 30 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Stop by the Youth Activity Room to hear a story and make a craft. All crafts will include recycled materials that you can find around your own home. Ages 4-9.
LEGO® CLUB
Sat | Mar 4 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Mon | Mar 6, 20 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN Sat | Mar 18 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR
Explore your creative side with LEGO® and DUPLO® blocks.
LET’S PLAY!
Sat | Mar 4, 18 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN
Join us for a morning of play. Your young child will learn a variety of skills exploring different interest areas. Ages 3-5.
LETTERS TO BELOVED CHARACTERS: LYLE, LYLE CROCODILE
All day | Mar 1-18 | RM
If you have a burning question for Lyle, Lyle Crocodile, now is your chance to ask! This activity will be available at the Red Mountain children’s desk March 1-18. Children can pick up “their mail” at the desk beginning March 31. Ages 4-7.
LITTLE CRAFTERS
Wed | Mar 8, 22 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Create pieces of art using different types of techniques and mediums. Be prepared to get a little messy! Ages 3-8.
STEAM AT THE LIBRARY
Wed | Mar 1, 15 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Each session we’ll do hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, art, or math. Ages 5-10.
Mar 1- Chromatography
Mar 15 - Amelia Earhart
Parenting
other challenges, calming techniques and preparing for school readiness. This series is designed for parents and caregivers of children ages birth to 5 years.
COVER TO COVER CLUB ☑
March 4 - April 15 | All Locations
Mesa Public Library is partnering with In-N-Out for the Cover to Cover Club. Children ages 4 to 12 will receive a reading log to keep track of the books they read. Read five books to earn a voucher for free hamburger or cheeseburger at any In-N-Out location! Ask staff for more information.
AROUND THE WORLD STORYTIME
Fri | Mar 3, 17 | 10:00am – 10:30am | MN Learn about the people and animals of various countries with songs, stories, maps, and crafts. Ages 3-7.
Mar 3 - China
Mar 17 - Haiti
BABY LAPSIT
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | DR
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | MN
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM
Introduces the rhythm and beauty of language to babies ages birth-16 months.
DESIGN TIME STORYTIME
Sat | Mar 11, 25 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN
Explore the creative process of art and design through songs, stories, games, and interactive plugged and unplugged activities. Ages 3-6.
K-CODE STORYTIME
Tuesdays | 11:15am – 12:00pm | MN
K-Code Storytime introduces basic coding concepts to families through songs, stories, games, and interactive plugged and unplugged activities. Ages 3-5.
LITERACY THRU DRAMA WITH MESA ARTS CENTER
Fri | Mar 3 | 10:00am – 11:00am | DR
Fri | Mar 10 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN
Fri | Mar 24 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | RM
Bring picture books to life by going on an imaginative adventure in this drama-focused storytime. Children will deepen early literacy skills as they explore magical worlds, problem-solve, and become characters in the story. Presented by Mesa Arts Center.
PLANT A SEED STORYTIME
Tues | Mar 21 | 10:00am – 10:30am | RM
We’ll read a story about how seeds grow, then we’ll plant a seed for you to take home and grow for your very own. Ages 3-5.
PRESCHOOL LAB
Fri | Mar 10 | 10:00am – 11:00am | DR
A STEAM-based storytime with hands-on explorations that introduce computational skills to help kids get ready for kindergarten. Ages 3-5.
Storytimes
Mondays | 10:30am – 11:00am | RM
Thursdays | 10:00am – 10:30am | DR
Thursdays | 10:00am – 10:30am | MN
Thursdays | 10:30am – 11:00am | MN
Incorporates stories, music, and movement for children ages 16-36 months.
YOGA STORYTIME
Thurs | Mar 16 | 10:00am – 10:30am | RM
Join us for stories with movement, singing, mindfulness, and easy yoga poses. Ages 3-5.
Red Mountain’s storytimes are ticketed events. Tickets will be handed out 30 minutes prior to program start.
TWEENS
ages 8-12
APP ARTIST ⚙
Tues | Mar 14, 28 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Learn vector graphics, raster graphics, pixel graphics, animation, and how to take your work to the next level. This program is limited to the first 8 participants.
THE ANTI-BOOK CLUB
Sat | Mar 11 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
The Anti-Book Club is a place to meet other readers with common interests. Bring what you’re currently reading or grab a book from the library’s bookshelves and let the reading begin! We will read for about 30 minutes then discuss what we like about what we’re reading. Readers can never have too many book recommendations, so come read with us and make some new friends.
CRAFT-ISH ⚙
Tues | Mar 7, 21 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
We’ll cut, glue, and draw away the afternoon! Supplies are limited.
Mar 7 – Recycled Tin Can Holders
Mar 21 – Straw Weaving
DIY BOOK EDGES ART ⚙
Mon | Mar 13 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Beautify your favorite books by decorating the edges. Use the books we provide or bring your own!
MACHINE: IMPOSSIBLE ⚙
Wed | Mar 22 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Sat | Mar 25 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | MN
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to create a machine that can solve a problem and maybe even save the world.
MAGIC TREE HOUSE TAKE & MAKE KIT
All Day | Mar 1-31 | RM
Come pick up a Magic Tree House Take & Make kit, available at the Red Mountain Library. Each kit contains a craft and activities. This month we are reading of the Olympics by Mary Pope Osborne. Books are not included in the packet.
The Mesa College Promise is a commitment from the City of Mesa to its residents that all eligible graduating Mesa high school students can attend Mesa Community College for two years with Arizona resident tuition and fees fully funded. The Mesa College Promise provides financial support to students with demonstrated financial needs but who have not received enough Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) funds or other scholarships to completely cover the cost of college. To learn more, visit: mesacc.edu/mesa-promise
ADVENTURES IN VR: FINGER PAINT ART RESTORATION ⚙ ☑
Wed | Mar 15 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN
Join us as we test out apps and explore virtual places. This month we will be immersing ourselves in the nonsensical job of finger paint art restoration.
ANIME YOUR WAY
Sat | Mar 4 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | MN
Watch a Studio Ghibli classic while enjoying activities related to the anime of the month. This month we are watching My Neighbor and making origami Totoros.
CALM CAFÉ
Thurs | Mar 23 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Take a break from your studies and relax with an hour of mindful play. At the Calm Café, teens can play with LEGO®, break out a board game, or color to their heart’s content.
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS® ⚙
Tues | Mar 14 | 3:30pm – 5:30pm | MN
Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons® with an experienced player. New players are welcome. Already know how to play? Come in and use the space to lead your own campaign.
GAMING AT THE LIBRARY
Thurs | Mar 2, 9, 30 | 4:00pm – 6:00pm | MN Come unwind with games in the Teen Zone. Play Nintendo Switch, Xbox, or choose to play one of our many board or card games.
MATH TUTORING FOR TEENS
Tuesdays | 3:00pm – 5:00pm | RM
Former math teacher Mr. Rogowski will help with homework, tests, and notes.
SEW A PILLOW COVER ⚙
MUG PAINTING
Thurs | Mar 16 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Use your painting and drawing skills to create your own mug design.
ORIGAMI FOR KIDS
Sat | Mar 25 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Come by and learn the Japanese art of paper-folding! We’ll show you easy, medium, and hard skill levels, so everyone can enjoy.
PERCY JACKSON UNIVERSE
BOOK CLUB
Wed | Mar 29 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Each month we will read a book from the world of Percy Jackson and enjoy trivia, games, and crafts. This month’s book is Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Sea of Monsters
TEENS
ages 12-18
Wed | Mar 8 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Wed | Mar 29 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Are you reading a book you just have to share? Watching a show or movie you need to talk to about? This group meets once a month to hang out and discuss all things pop culture: books, movies, podcasts, and more!
Wed | Mar 8 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR
Thurs | Mar 23 | 3:30pm – 5:00pm | DR
Hang out, create, learn, and have fun with
Mar 8 - Upcycled Record Art
Mar 23 - Custom Zipper Pouches
☑
ADULT COLORING CLUB
Thurs | Mar 2 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | RM
Relax and color your stress away. Coloring pages and colored pencils, markers, and crayons will be provided, or bring your own.
ADVENTURES IN VR: FINGER PAINT ART RESTORATION ⚙ ☑
Wed | Mar 29 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Join us as we test out apps and explore virtual places. This month we will be immersing ourselves in the nonsensical job of finger paint art restoration.
ARIZONA HUMANITIES PRESENTS: WOMEN’S RESILIENCE AND SURVIVAL IN THE HOLOCAUST
Mon | Mar 27 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Trace the lives of two Holocaust survivors who grew up in traditional Jewish families in Bedzin, Poland, survived the Nazi onslaught, and later became residents of Arizona: Jane Lipski (Tucson) and Doris Martin (Flagstaff). This program is made possible by Arizona Humanities.
ASK A MASTER GARDENER
Sat | Mar 18 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM
Get your gardening questions answered by the experts! University of Arizona
Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners are certified volunteers who answer questions about gardening, landscaping, plant identification, and plant problems.
BUYING YOUR FIRST HOUSE
Sat | Mar 25 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR
Buying a house can be intimidating. This seminar will help you prepare for crucial aspects of the process.
CARD MAKING WITH THE CAMEO ⚙ ☑
Wed | Mar 8 | 1:30pm – 4:00pm | RM
Wed | Mar 22 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
In this class, we will learn how to use Silhouette Studio software to make a greeting card and some embellishments, all of which we will cut out of paper with the Cameo Silhouette.
CRAFT NIGHT
Thurs | Mar 2 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN ⚙
Wed | Mar 15 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
Try your hand at a low-stress craft night.
Mar 2 (MN) - Hoop Pocket Wreath
Mar 15 (DR) - Mixed Media Landscapes
BOOK GROUPS
ESL CONVERSATION CLASS
Saturdays | 1:00pm – 2:30pm | MN
Saturdays | 1:00pm – 3:00pm | RM
Practice English listening and speaking skills while learning about American culture. Please bring a notebook and pencil.
GRAPHIC DESIGN STUDIO ⚙ ☑
Wed | Mar 1 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Create projects using different apps. Learn vector graphics, raster graphics, pixel graphics, animation, and how to take your work to the next level. No iPad or graphic design experience is necessary.
J.A. JANCE BOOK TALK & SIGNING
Wed | Mar 15 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | RM Bestselling author J.A. Jance will discuss her newest book in the Ali Reynolds series, Collateral Damage Books will be available for sale and signing after the presentation. Admission will be ticketed and limited to 150 attendees.
LET’S PLAY WITH PAPER ⚙
Tues | Mar 21 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | RM
Join us for an hour of paper crafting. This month we’ll make Infinity Cards.
LOCAL AUTHOR TALK: MARLA-TIYE VIEIRA
Thurs | Mar 9 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Join Marla-Tiye Vieira as she speaks about her short story Jasmine Breeze and focuses on the beliefs that, “self love is true love; whenever we experience any form of ostracism, we need to embrace who we really are. We are the same regardless of superficialities.”
MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS
Mon | Mar 6 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
Learn the basics of meditation with simple yet powerful techniques that will help you deal with stress wherever you are. We will be seated in chairs, so you do not need a mat. You may wish to bring a pillow to support your back.
SEW A PILLOW COVER
Wed | Mar 15 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Join us as we learn to use a sewing machine like a pro. This month we will be making a pillow cover.
ADULTS
SEWING MACHINE BASICS ⚙ ☑
Sat | Mar 4 | 1:30pm – 4:00pm | RM
Learn the basics of using 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.
SHRED DAY
Sat | Mar 18 | 11:00am – 1:00pm | MN
Get your sensitive documents shredded for free by ProShred® at this drive-up event. You can bring paper, file folders, hanging files, notepads, and junk mail (Limit 4 standard-size bankers’ boxes).
SUMMER GARDENING IN ARIZONA
Thurs | Mar 30 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
It is possible to have a productive vegetable garden during the summer heat! Master Gardener Angela Judd will explain the essentials.
VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) PROGRAM ☑
CHEER READERS
Tues | Mar 28 | 5:00pm – 6:00pm | OFFSITE 11/22/63 – Stephen King
FICTION FOLKS
Thurs | Mar 9 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR The Magnolia Palace
THINKspot at the Dobson Ranch Library
On February 1, 2023, we celebrated the completion of the expansion and renovation of the Dobson Ranch Library. This year-long construction project expanded the library’s footprint by 1600 square feet - adding a THINKspot makerspace - and improved and updated the façade of the building. This was the biggest renovation the Dobson Ranch Library has undergone since it was built in 1987. Funding for the renovation is from the Parks and Culture Bonds issue approved by Mesa voters in 2018.
THINKspot, a makerspace/workspace, is a place where the community can collaborate, innovate, explore, and learn. It offers training and access to high-tech equipment and innovative classes and programs.
THINKspot equipment training is quick and easy: watch a video, complete the quiz, and sign a waiver. Once you’ve completed training, you can self-reserve THINKspot equipment.
Specific equipment may vary by location, but each THINKspot offers:
• 3D printer(s)
• Laser printer
• Sewing machine(s)
• Vinyl cutter
• Studio with greenscreen
• iMac with Adobe software
Learn more about THINKspot at: mesalibrary.org/thinkspot
Writer in Residence
From February through April, Mesa Public Library is hosting author Kelli DonleyWilliams as its very own Writer in Residence. She is the author of four novels: Under the Same Moon, Basket Baby, Counting Coup, and Desert Divide, all inspired by her passion for public health and service. This program is supported by the Arizona State Library, a division of the Secretary of State, with federal funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
WRITER IN RESIDENCE CONSULTATION
HOURS ☑
Tuesdays | 4:30pm – 6:30pm | RM
Wednesdays | 4:30pm – 6:30pm | RM
Author Kelli Donley-Williams is offering 30-minute consultation sessions for aspiring writers. Choose a time slot online.
READING AS A WRITER
Sat | Mar 11 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM
Learn from successful authors’ works by reading with a critical eye.
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY
11 participants; you are welcome to bring your own device.
Mar 1 – Mouse basics
Mar 8 – Keyboard basics
Mar 22 – Keyboard basics
Mar 29 – Microsoft Word
Thursdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | RM Sat | Mar 4 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | MN
Curious about downloading ebooks, movies, music, magazines, and more from the library with your laptop, mobile device, or ereader? Drop in during these sessions for one-on-one assistance on a first-come, first-served basis.
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.
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480-644-3100 HOURS OF OPERATION 10:00am – 8:00pm 10:00am – 8:00pm 10:00am – 8:00pm 10:00am – 8:00pm 10:00am – 5:00pm 10:00am – 5:00pm Closed
locations are open 9:00am – 10:00am, Monday through Saturday, for self-service. ☑ Indicates registration required. Visit mesalibrary.org or call to register. Check our online calendar for the most up-to-date information. MAIN LIBRARY (MN) & THINKSPOT @ MAIN 64 E. 1st St. DOBSON RANCH LIBRARY (DR) & THINKSPOT @ DOBSON RANCH 2425 S. Dobson Rd. RED MOUNTAIN LIBRARY (RM) & THINKSPOT @ RED MOUNTAIN 635 N. Power Rd.
All
magazines and newspapers 24 hours day, 7 days a week with your library card. Enjoy on your computer, tablet, phone, or other mobile device. Visit: mesalibrary.org/DigitalNewsstand
EXTRA! EXTRA!