Coming soon! Mesa Public Library is excited to introduce the Read Runner, a new bookmobile that will expand access to library services throughout the community. The Read Runner will provide books, educational materials, and equipment to individuals of all ages, particularly those who may face challenges in visiting a library branch. The bookmobile will visit parks, schools, events, and other public locations across Mesa. To learn more about the launch of the Read Runner, visit: mesalibrary.org/bookmobile
Fri | Apr 11 | 10:00am – 4:30pm | MN
Sat | Apr 12 | 10:00am – 4:30pm | MN
Get books at amazing prices! Our Spring Cleaning Book Sale will take place in the Mesa Family Resource Center in the basement of the Main Library. Hardbacks are $1, paperbacks are $0.50. All money raised from book sales goes to supporting library programs, improvements, and services.
HOW TO READ THIS GUIDE:
☑ Registration required
�� Ticketed event
Tickets are handed out 30 min prior to program start.
† Prerequisite
Must be comfortable using a mouse and a keyboard.
⚙ THINKspot program
Make and create in our THINKspot makerspace.
To learn more about equipment and training visit: mesalibrary.org/thinkspot
�� Outdoor program
Some events, and most at Mesa Express Library, are held outdoors; please come prepared for the elements.
Need a library card? Scan this code to get one!
KIDS EAST VALLEY CHILDREN’S
BUILDING BLOCKS CLUB
Sat | Apr 19 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR
Explore your creative side with LEGO® and DUPLO® blocks.
CRAFT-IN MOVIE: ALICE IN WONDERLAND
Wed | Apr 16 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | DR
Watch Alice in Wonderland (rated G) and do themed crafts.
FAMILY MATINEE: MOANA 2
Sat | Apr 26 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm | MN
Each month, we will show a different familyfriendly movie. This month’s movie is Moana 2 (Rated PG).
KIDS’ KITCHEN
Wed | Apr 16 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Join us in the kitchen to create fun, interesting, and tasty treats. This month we will be making easy apple snacks. Ages 6-12.
LIGHT-UP FIREFLY CRAFT
Mon | Apr 7 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Transform a plastic egg into a firefly that lights up. Ages 6+.
STORYTIMES
BABY LAPSIT
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | DR
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | MN
Fridays | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM
Fri | Apr 4, 18 | 9:30am – 10:00am | MEL ��
Introduces the rhythm and beauty of language to babies ages birth-16 months.
FAMILY STORYTIME ⚙
Sat | Apr 12 | 10:30am – 11:00am | MEL
Bring the whole family for stories, songs, and literacy-boosting actitivies.
K-CODE ⚙
Tues | Apr 8 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | MN
Introduces basic coding concepts to families through songs, stories, games, and interactive plugged and unplugged activities. Ages 3-5.
PAJAMA STORYTIME
Tues | Apr 8 | 6:00pm – 6:30pm | MN
Wear your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffed animal to an evening storytime. Ages 0-5.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
Tuesdays | 10:00am – 10:30am | DR
Tuesdays | 10:00am – 10:30am | MN
Tuesdays | 10:30am – 11:00am | MN
Wed | Apr 16, 23 | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM ��
Wed | Apr 16, 23 | 10:30am – 11:00am | RM ��
Join us for songs, stories, and silliness in this kindergarten readiness storytime. Ages 3-5.
OUTDOOR CRAFTS
Tues | Apr 1 | 3:30pm – 4:15pm | MEL ��
Create a unique craft inspired by the great outdoors. This month we’ll make stick wind chimes.
PRINCESS PARTY
Tues | Apr 8 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Dress up, do some crafts, and and meet princesses!
QUIRKY ART
Wed | Apr 9 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Paint and create your own unique masterpiece. Ages 6-12.
PARENTING WORKSHOP: RAISING A READER®
Thursdays | 5:30pm – 6:30pm | RM ☑
This engaging series includes 4 workshops for parents to learn: how to build a reading routine at home; effective techniques to foster language and early literacy development; how to make helpful connections with your local library; and how book sharing promotes healthy brain development. This series is designed for parents and caregivers of children ages birth to 5 years. Childcare is provided. Support for this program is provided by First Things First.
EVCT BRAVO
Mon | Apr 7 | 6:00pm – 6:45pm | DR
Wed | Apr 9 | 6:00pm – 6:45pm | RM
EVCT Bravo is a musical theatre troupe. Join us for their new Spring production.
EVCT EXPRESS ACTING TROUPE
Wed | Apr 2 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Wed | Apr 23 | 6:00pm – 6:45pm | RM
EVCT Express, an acting troupe for kids ages 8-16, will perform a new short play.
EVCT JUNIOR JOKESTERS
Wed | Apr 9 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Wed | Apr 16 | 6:00pm – 6:45pm | RM
EVCT Jr. Jokesters, an improv theatre troupe for kids ages 8-13 years, will perform an unscripted story.
EVCT ON THE SPOT
Wed | Apr 16 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Wed | Apr 30 | 6:00pm – 6:45pm | RM
EVCT On the Spot, an improv theatre troupe for teens. Each semester, students develop and rehearse skills to tour improvised performances around the East Valley.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME PRESENTS: TOUCH-A-TRUCK
Wed | Apr 2 | 9:30am – 11:00am | RM
Learn about the different vehicles in your community and the jobs they do! There will be an Army truck, dump truck, fire engine, garbage truck, and more.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME PRESENTS: POLKA DOT TEA PARTY ��
Wed | Apr 9 | 10:00am – 11:00am | RM
Author Vicki Riske will read her new book The New Polka Dot Tea Party. Plus, we’ll create paper puppets and have a pretend tea party. Ages 3-5.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME PRESENTS: LET’S PLAY! WITH MESA ARTS CENTER ��
Wed | Apr 16 | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM
Wed | Apr 16 | 10:30am – 11:00am | RM
Picture books come to life in this dramafocused, interactive storytime for preschoolers. Young learners will engage early literacy skills while exploring magical worlds, problem solving, and imagining themselves as characters in the story! Ages 3-5. Presented by Mesa Arts Center.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME PRESENTS: TUBBA & FRIENDS BIG MUSIC JAMBOREE!��
Wed | Apr 30 | 10:00am –10:30am | RM
Local author Michael Ivery will present his picture book Tubba and Friends – The Big Music Jamboree. Ages 3-5.
SHOWERS AND FLOWERS STORYTIME
Fri | Apr 25 | 10:00am – 10:45am | MN
Come enjoy a storytime and craft all about raindrops, flowers, and growing gardens. Ages 3-5.
SPRING STORYTIME
Sat | Apr 5 | 10:30am – 11:00am | OFFSITE Enjoy a special storytime about Spring and create a unique craft in honor of the season.
TINKERING FOR TODDLERS
Fri | Apr 11 | 10:00am – 10:45am | DR A STEAM-based storytime that gives toddlers the opportunity to explore, be curious, and practice independent thinking. Ages 2-3.
Incorporates stories, music, and movement for children ages 16-36 months.
ages 8-12
APP ARTIST ⚙
Tues | Apr 1 | 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.
CRAFT-ISH ⚙
Tues | Apr 22 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Learn how to use snap circuits to create movement and sound. Ages 10+.
CREATIVE WRITING CLUB
Wed | Apr 23 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | DR
Come join our tween creative writing club. Each month, we’ll share different creative writing prompts, exercises, and games. You can also bring your own writing to share.
GAMING FOR TWEENS ⚙
Tues | Apr 29 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN
Bring your friends and find out who is the ultimate Super Smash Bros.® champion!
RPG AT THE LIBRARY
Wed | Apr 2 | 4:00pm – 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.
SLIME TIME
Wed | Apr 30 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | DR
It’s Slime Time! Join us each month as we make different types of slime.
TWEEN TIME:
MARSHMALLOW TREAT HOUSES
TEENS
ages 12-18
ADVENTURES IN VR ⚙
Tues | Apr 15 | 3:30pm – 4:30pm | DR
Thus | Apr 17 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN ☑
Join us as we venture into virtual reality. We’ll test out apps and explore new virtual places. This program was made possible by Mesa West Rotary District 5495.
ANIME ADVENTURES
Sat | Apr 12 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | MN
Come watch anime and create some animethemed crafts! We will be watching Spy x Family. Ages 13-18.
COLOR AND CHILL
Fri | Apr 4 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Join us as we sit back, relax, and color.
ECO CROCHET DIY ⚙
Sat | Apr 19 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | MN
Craft a crocheted treasure with Westwood High’s Environmental Club.
LASER-CUT COASTERS ⚙ ☑
Thurs | Apr 10 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Create a personalized coaster using the Glowforge.
Wed | Apr 16 | 2:30pm – 3:30pm | RM
Build a house for a Peeps friend out of graham crackers and candy.
TEEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR OUR SUMMER READING PROGRAM!
Applications accepted March 1 - April 30
We need teen volunteers to be a part of our Summer Reading Program team! You’ll help customers register for the program, assist with events and activities, and shelve children’s library materials. Apply at: mesalibrary.org/SRPvolunteer
MATH TUTORING FOR TEENS
Tuesdays | 3:00pm – 5:00pm | RM
Former math teacher Mr. Rogowski will help with homework, tests, and notes.
PEER TUTORING ⚙
Saturdays | 11:00am – 1:00pm | DR
Teen volunteers from Dobson Ranch will help with math, science, and writing for students in grades K-12.
SEWING: QUILTED COASTER ⚙ ☑
Thurs | Apr 24 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Learn how to use our Brother sewing machines by creating a quilted coaster.
SIDEWALK CHALK HAIKU ��
Wed | Apr 23 | 3:30pm - 4:30pm | MEL
In honor of National Poetry month, come write a haiku on the sidewalk using chalk.
STEAM TEAM ☑
Wednesdays | April 16 - June 25 2:30pm – 4:30pm | RM
The Compudopt STEAM Team Program helps students explore how technology is used to solve real world problems. In this program, students will put on their detective hats to solve the mystery of an art heist. At the end of the program, each participant will receive a refurbished laptop computer to keep. Geared toward grades 6 to 8. This program was made possible by Google Fiber.
TEEN TIME: VINYL STICKERS ⚙ ☑
Tues | Apr 1 | 3:30pm – 4:30pm | DR
Learn how to use the Silhouette Cameo to make custom vinyl stickers.
TEEN TIME: VIDEO GAMES ⚙
Sat | Apr 26 | 2:00pm – 3:30pm | DR
Try to best your bestie at a round of Super Smash Bros
TEEN ZINE WORKSHOP
Wed | Apr 30 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Create your own mini-magazine about anything you can imagine: make a comic, share your favorite books or bands, poetry, drawings, or anything that inspires you.
ADULTS
ASK A MASTER GARDENER
Sat | Apr 12 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM
University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners will answer questions about gardening and landscaping.
AUTHOR ALANA YAZZIE AND THE MODERN NAVAJO KITCHEN
Sat | Apr 5 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM
Author Alana Yazzie will discuss her book The Modern Navajo Kitchen: Homestyle Recipes that Celebrate the Flavors and Traditions of the Diné. This beautifully photographed cookbook ties together traditional Navajo recipes as well as global recipes with a Navajo spin, creating a unique culinary experience. Books will be available for purchase at the end of the program.
COLORING CLUB ⚙
Thurs | Apr 3 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | RM
Relax and color your stress away.
CARDS ON THE CAMEO ⚙ ☑
Wed | Apr 23 | 1:00pm – 2:30pm | DR
Learn how to create and cut designs for the Silhouette Cameo by creating your own cards.
CREATIVE CONTAINER GARDENING
Sat | Apr 5 | 10:00am – 11:30am | DR
Get tips for creating, growing, and maintaining a container garden. Learn about the best types of containers to use, and the varieties of flowers, plants, and vegetables that can be grown in them. Presented by Noelle Johnson, the AZ Plant Lady, Phoenixbased landscape consultant and author of Dry Climate Gardening. Books will be available for purchase at the end of the program.
CRAFT NIGHT
Wed | Apr 16 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
Try your hand at a low-stakes craft night. This month we’ll be making pop-up flower cards. Ages 14+.
DOOLITTLE LECTURE
Thurs | Apr 24 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | MEL
Join us for a lecture on the Doolittle Raid. Afterwards, try on our VR headsets and see if you can fly a WWII fighter plane.
ESL CONVERSATION CLASS
Saturdays | 1:00pm – 2:30pm | MN
Sat | Apr 5, 12 | 1:00pm – 3:00pm | RM
Practice intermediate English skills. Please bring a notebook and pencil.
INTRO TO DNA FOR GENEALOGY
Mon | Apr 14 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Learn about what can a DNA test can do for you, what testing companies are available, and pros and cons of taking a DNA test.
LASER-CUT COASTERS ⚙ ☑
Wed | Apr 9 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Create a personalized coaster using the Glowforge.
LEARN TO CROCHET ⚙
Thurs | Apr 10 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
Get crochet guidance from an expert in how to start a simple project.
LET’S EAT! ⚙ ☑
Tues | Apr 8 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Thurs | Apr 10 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Learn to make broccoli-cheddar pockets with step-by-step guidance from our culinary enthusiast librarian. Please register for only one of the programs to ensure others can participate. Bon appétit!
MESA ARTS CENTER’S CLASSICAL MUSIC INSIDE OUT SERIES PRESENTS: ZUILL BAILEY
Mon | Apr 7 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | MN
Grammy Award-Winning Cellist Zuill Bailey inspires a love and appreciation of classical music. His “informance” style is an interactive and dynamic experience for music appreciators of any age.
MESA EXPERIENCE CORPS
INFORMATION SESSION ⚙
Mon | Apr 14 | 10:00am – 12:30pm | DR
Experience Corps provides a meaningful volunteer experience for adults over 50 by training them to be reading tutors for at-risk elementary students in Mesa Public Schools. Program staff will cover how the program works, what volunteers can expect, and will answer any questions. Participants will have an opportunity to complete an application and do an on-site interview with program staff.
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.
BOOK GROUPS
BUSY HANDS BOOK CLUB
Tues | Apr 1 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn HugoTaylor Jenkins Reid
Bring your needlework project to work on while we talk about the book of the month.
Come and enjoy a discussion about different cozy murder mysteries.
RPG AT THE LIBRARY ⚙
Sat | Apr 26 | 3:30pm – 4:45pm | 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.
SEWING: QUILTED COASTERS ⚙ ☑
Wed | Apr 16 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Learn how to use our Brother sewing machines by creating a quilted coaster.
SUMMER GARDENING IN ARIZONA
Thurs | Apr 17 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Learn how to have a productive vegetable garden during Arizona’s hot, dry summer months. Presented by Master Gardener Angela Judd, author of How to Grow Your Own Food. Books will be available for purchase at the end of the program.
SURVIVAL GUIDE TO BUYING OR SELLING A HOME
Sat | Apr 12 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR
Buying or selling a house can be intimidating. This seminar will help you prepare for crucial aspects of the process.
VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) PROGRAM ☑
Tues – Friday | Jan 28 – Apr 11 | RM VITA offers free tax help those who generally make $67,000 or less annually, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. IRScertified volunteers from Mesa United Way will provide basic income tax return preparation to qualified individuals. Appointments (10am – 12pm): book online at rmlib-vita.bookafy.com or call 480-8342122. No walk-ins during this time. Walk-ins (12pm – 2:30pm): first come, first served. For more information and locations, visit prepareandempower.org
YOUR BEST MAKEUP LESSON
Sat | Apr 5 | 9:30am – 11:30am | RM
Clinical aesthetician and former Hollywood makeup artist Kathy Krakora will present a makeup demonstration.
FICTION FOLKS
The Glassmaker - Tracy Chevalier
NOVEL APPROACH
Thurs | Apr 10 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR
Mon | Apr 14 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | OFFSITE
Check our website for this month’s title
READING ALONG, TOGETHER ⚙
Wed | Apr 30 | 6:30pm – 7:30pm | RM
Bring a book of your choice and read in silence with others. Then, if you wish, you can stick around to discuss your reading.
WHO PICKED THIS BOOK?
Tues | Apr 1 | 10:30am – 12:00pm | OFFSITE
Check our website for this month’s title
FACILITY UPDATES
MAIN LIBRARY SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION
Construction of eight solar-covered parking canopies is underway at the Main Library, and is expected to continue through May 2025. Work will be phased in sections to maintain parking for library patrons, but parking will be limited throughout construction. Mesa City Council approved a plan to install almost 3,000 kW of solar panels over parking lots at four city owned buildings in downtown Mesa, including the Main Library. Besides boosting Mesa’s renewable energy portfolio, the solar arrays will also provide shade for about 660 parking spaces downtown.
DOBSON RANCH LIBRARY
PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION
Our Place, Our Possibilities, a public art piece by Troy Neiman and Maxie Adler, is expected to be installed in March on the Dobson Ranch Library’s concrete pillars. The design will integrate with the shapes, structures, materials, and colors of the library.
Please visit mesalibrary.org for the most up-to-date facility information.
SEED LIBRARIES
The Seed Libraries at the Main, Dobson Ranch, and Red Mountain libraries allow library cardholders to check out three seed packets per month for free! Choose from a variety of seeds for edible plants, herbs, and flowers.
WRITER IN
RESIDENCE
mesa reads
Join us in our year-long celebration of reading! We’re encouraging everyone to read at least 15 minutes a day to build a strong but lasting habit. Join in by reading, taking on fun challenges, and attending events. Log your minutes in the Beanstack app to be eligible for monthly prize drawings. For details, visit: mesalibrary.org/mesareads
Improve your writing with our Writer in Residence. From April through July, author Brooke Bessesen will offer one-on-one consultations and workshops at the Red Mountain Library to support both aspiring and established authors. 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.
Wed | Apr 30 | 1:00pm – 3:00pm Brooke Bessesen is offering 30-minute one-on-one consultation sessions. To book a time slot, visit: mesalibrary.org/writerinresidence.
WHAT’S YOUR STORY? TAKING THE FIRST STEP FROM READER TO WRITER
Thurs | Apr 17 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | RM
Each of us has a story to tell. Perhaps you’ve dreamed of writing a children’s book, a mystery novel, or a memoir. Now’s your chance to get started! In this program, Brooke will share insights into the writing journey, help you consider your own goals, and offer strategies to find your way.
COMPUTERS AND 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. Each week covers a different topic.
COMPUTER SKILLS TRAINING
Tues | Apr 15 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | RM
Thurs | Apr 17 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR ⚙
Mon | Apr 28 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR ⚙
Learn to navigate several online platforms for technology so that you can improve your computer skills at your own pace and on your own time.
DIGITAL SKILL BUILDER WORKSHOPS ☑
Thursdays | Apr 17 to June 19
10:00am – 12:00pm | RM
Compudopt will teach computer skills to adults in this series. Topics include: computer basics, internet use and safety, email basics, Google workspace, Google docs, Google slides, job search, and tech for life. A single registration includes all 10 classes in the workshop. At the end of the program, each participant will receive a refurbished laptop computer to keep. Ages 18+. This program was made possible by Google Fiber.
EMBROIDERY MACHINE DEMONSTRATION ⚙
Wed | Apr 2 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR
Learn how to operate our Brother SE1900 embroidery machine and find out what it can do.
EXPLORING VR: COLORING IN VR ⚙☑
Thurs | Apr 3 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Explore the world of VR through different apps and games. This month we will explore our coloring abilities by stepping into the coloring page with the app Color Space. This program was made possible by Mesa West Rotary District 5495.
HOTSPOT DIGITAL HELP DESK
Wednesdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MEL
Thursdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | RM
Sat | Apr 12, 26 | 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.
INTRODUCTION TO THE GLOWFORGE⚙ ☑
Mon | Apr 7 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
Learn how to create designs for the Glowforge and how to operate it by designing and cutting your own beginner project.
INTRODUCTION TO MICROSOFT EXCEL⚙☑ †
Tues | Apr 8 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | DR
Learn the foundations of Microsoft Excel, including how to create, edit, and format data in a spreadsheet.
INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED EXCEL ⚙☑†
Wed | Apr 9 | 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.
† Prerequisite: Must be comfortable using a mouse and a keyboard.
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
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 7am–9am) 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).
To sign up for Expanded Access, see a staff member.
LOCATIONS
MAIN LIBRARY (MN) & THINKSPOT @ MAIN 64 E. 1st St.
