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!
mesalibrary.org/getacard
MARCH 2025
COVER TO COVER CLUB
Mar 1 – Apr 12 | All Locations
Mesa Public Library is partnering with In-NOut for the Cover to Cover Club. Kids ages 4–12 can register in person or on Beanstack this year! Read 5 books or 300 minutes to earn a free hamburger or cheeseburger voucher, redeemable at any In-N-Out location. Vouchers must be claimed at the library where you registered. Learn more at mesalibrary.org.
DONATE DAY: BOOK DONATION DRIVE
Sat | Mar 15 | 9:00am – 12:00pm | MN
Donate books, magazines, movies, and music without leaving your car! Volunteers will be on hand at the Main Library to unload your donation. One hundred percent of our used book sales proceeds stay with the library to support programs and services.
GRAND CANYON STATE MODEL RAILROADERS
Tues | Mar 18 | 10:00am – 7:00pm | RM Wed | Mar 19 | 10:00am – 7:00pm | RM Thurs | Mar 20 | 10:00am – 7:00pm | RM Fri | Mar 21 | 10:00am – 4:30pm | RM Sat | Mar 22 | 10:00am – 2:00pm | RM
The Grand Canyon State Model Railroaders are pulling into the depot at Red Mountain Library! The model railroad displays running HO-scale trains and model towns with more than 750 square feet of track. Model train operators will be on site to answer questions and show how the model railroad is constructed.
KIDS
BATS AT THE LIBRARY
Wed | Mar 12 | 3:30pm – 4:30pm | MEL
Join the Arizona Bat Rescue to learn about bats. Discover what types of bats live in Arizona and how they contribute to a healthy environment.
BUILDING BLOCKS CLUB
Wed | Mar 5 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Sat | Mar 15 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR
Sat | Mar 15 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Explore your creative side with LEGO® and DUPLO® blocks.
CARDBOARD FORT BUILD AND BREAK
Thurs | Mar 6 | 4:00pm – 6:00pm | MN
Use your imagination and building skills to construct then destruct your cardboard fort.
CRAFTING WITH LITTLE DIGITS
Thurs | Mar 20 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | MN
Enjoy crafts that support toddlers’ learning.
CRAFT-IN MOVIE:
THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG
Wed | Mar 12 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | DR
Watch The Princess and the Frog (rated G) and do themed crafts.
DIY HUMMINGBIRD FEEDER
Mon | Mar 24 | 2:30pm – 3:30pm | RM
Create a hummingbird feeder using a mason jar.
FAMILY MATINEE: MIGRATION
Sat | Mar 15 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm | MN
Each month, we will show a different family-friendly movie. This month’s movie is Migration.
HOW TO CATCH A LEPRECHAUN STORY AND CRAFT
Mon | Mar 10 | 2:30pm – 3:30pm | RM
Listen to the story How to Catch a Leprechaun by Adam Wallace and make a leprechaun finger puppet.
IMAGINARIUM STEM STORIES
Thurs | Mar 13 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | MN
Hear a classic fairytale and then take on a fun STEM challenge. Ages 6-12.
KIDS’ KITCHEN
Wed | Mar 26 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Create interesting and tasty treats. This month, we’ll make breakfast sushi. Ages 6-12.
MEET YOUR MATCH TOURNAMENT
Sat | Mar 29 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Take memory games to the next level in this fun giant matching game competition.
MOUSE PAINT STORYTIME AND CRAFT
Mon | Mar 31 | 2:30pm – 3:30pm | RM
Join us for the book Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh, then create and paint your own ornament to take home! Ages 3-5.
OUTDOOR CRAFTS
Tues | Mar 4 | 3:30pm – 4:15pm | MEL ��
Create a unique craft inspired by nature! This month, we’ll make soda bottle bird feeders.
STORYTIMES
BABY LAPSIT
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | DR
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | MN
Fri | Mar 7, 14, 28 | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM
Fri | Mar 7, 21 | 9:30am – 10:00am | MEL ��
Introduces the rhythm and beauty of language to babies ages birth-16 months.
COYOTE STORYTIME
Wed | Mar 12 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Listen to local children’s author Jeremy Koehn read his newest book, Roady and the Runners, and play related games.
FAMILY STORYTIME ��
Sat | Mar 8 | 10:30am – 11:00am | MEL
Bring the whole family for stories, songs, and literacy-boosting activities.
K-CODE ⚙
Tues | Mar 11 | 11:30am – 12:30pm | MN
Introduces basic coding concepts to families through songs, stories, games, and interactive plugged and unplugged activities. Ages 3-5.
PAJAMA STORYTIME
Tues | Mar 4 | 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 | Mar 5 | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM ��
Wed | Mar 5 | 10:30am – 11:00am | RM ��
Join us for songs, stories, and silliness in this kindergarten readiness storytime. Ages 3-5.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME PRESENTS: WONDERLAND��
Wed | Mar 26 | 10:00am – 10:45am | RM
Mesa Art Center teaching artist Rachel Hutzenbiler will lead a reimagined, interactive, preschool-friendly performance based on Alice in Wonderland.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME WITH AUTHOR
MARLENE DAVIS: MUSICAL BILINGUAL FUN
Wed | Mar 12 | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM
Wed | Mar 12 | 10:30am – 11:00am | RM
Author Marlene Davis presents a musical storytime in English and Spanish.
SPRING EQUINOX IN THE MONARCH GARDEN
Sat | Mar 22 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM
Celebrate the spring equinox and learn about monarch butterflies from Southwest Monarch Study and enjoy crafts for kids. The equinox, marking the start of spring, occurs on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 2:01 A.M. in Mesa.
THE BIG RED DOG PARTY
Sat | Mar 29 | 10:00am – 11:00am | DR
Celebrate everyone’s favorite big red dog, Clifford, by reading stories and making crafts!
Discover the world of textures with a fun storytime and hands-on activities featuring something squishy, crinkly, and soft!
TINKERING FOR TODDLERS
Fri | Mar 21 | 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.
TWEENS
ages 8-12
APP ARTIST ⚙
Tues | Mar 4 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Learn vector graphics, raster graphics, pixel graphics, animation, and how to take your work to the next level. Limited to the first 8 participants.
COLORFUL YARN-WRAPPED SHAMROCKS
Wed | Mar 5 | 2:30pm – 3:30pm | RM
Upcycle cardboard and yarn to make your own lucky charm.
CRAFT-ISH ⚙
Tues | Mar 18 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Build a bridge using a variety of materials. Win a prize for the strongest bridge.
CREATIVE WRITING CLUB ⚙
Wed | Mar 26 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | DR
Each month, we’ll share different creative writing prompts, exercises, and games. You can also bring your own writing to share.
MARDI GRAS BEAD PAINTING
Wed | Mar 5 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | DR
Celebrate Mardi Gras by making a painting using beads instead of a paintbrush.
RPG AT THE LIBRARY
Wed | Mar 5 | 3:45pm – 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.
QUIRKY ART
Wed | Mar 12 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Create your own unique masterpiece. Limited supplies. Ages 6-12.
GET SPOOKED AND INSPIRED WITH MATT MCMANN
Sat | Mar 1 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | OFFSITE
Matt McMann, author of the Monsterious series, is coming to Mesa! All ages are invited to an interactive session creating stories and bringing characters to life. This is perfect for fans of spooky adventures like Goosebumps, Stranger Things, or Five Nights at Freddy’s. McMann’s books will be available for sale and signing. This event is part of the I Love Mesa Day festivities and will take place at The Post in Downtown Mesa.
ages 12-18
3D DESIGN CAMP☑
Mar 11 – 14 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Learn how to create your own virtual world in this 4-part series.
ADVENTURES IN VR ⚙
Wed | Mar 12 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR
Tues | Mar 18 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | RM
Thurs | Mar 20 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN☑
Join us as we venture into virtual reality. We’ll test out apps and explore new virtual places.
ANIME ADVENTURES
Sat | Mar 1 | 1:00pm – 4:00pm | MN
Come watch anime and create themed crafts! We will be watching The Wonderland Ages 13-18.
COLOR AND CHILL
Fri | Mar 7 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Please join us as we sit back, relax, and color.
PEER TUTORING
Sat | Mar 1, 22, 29 | 11:00am – 1:00pm | DR
Teen volunteers from Dobson Ranch will help with math, science, and writing for students in grades K-12.
SEWING: APRONS ⚙☑
Thurs | Mar 27 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Learn how to use our Brother sewing machines by creating an apron. Instruction and materials provided.
ARIZONA HUMANITIES PRESENTS: ACCESS TO ATHLETICS FOR GIRLS AND WOMEN
Thurs | Mar 6 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | RM
Learn about the legacy of Ina E. Gittings, Arizona’s first Director of Women’s Physical Education, who advanced opportunities for women athletes long before Title IX. Explore her impact on the state’s athletic landscape and her lasting contributions to women’s sports. This program is made possible by Arizona Humanities.
BEGINNER ART JOURNALING ⚙☑
Fri | Mar 21 | 11:00am – 12:30pm | RM
An art journal can be a low stress way to integrate creativity into your daily life. We’ll introduce some tips, crafts, and projects to get you started.
COLORING CLUB ⚙
Thurs | Mar 6 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | RM
Relax and color your stress away.
COSPLAY MEET UP ⚙
Wed | Mar 12 | 6:30pm – 7:30pm | RM
Join fellow cosplayers to share tips, get help, and find inspiration for your next project. THINKspot equipment is available with completed training, a signed waiver, and age-appropriate guidelines.
CRAFT NIGHT: CANDLE HOLDERS
Wed | Mar 19 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
TEENS ADULTS
Try your hand at a low-stakes craft night. This month, we’ll be making candle holders. Ages 14+.
Practice English listening and speaking skills. Please bring a notebook and pencil.
GROWING VEGETABLES IN ARIZONA ��
Thurs | Mar 20 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | MEL
Join Master Gardeners as they dicuss growing vegetables in Arizona.
HISTORY OF QUILTS
Thurs | Mar 27 | All Day | RM
Quilts have a rich history and significance. Sue Kern, a quilter, will share the history of quilts at 10:30am. Her quilts will be on display for the rest of the day to browse and admire.
LEARN TO CROCHET ⚙☑
Tues | Mar 11 | 2:00pm – 3:30pm | RM
Crocheting can be intimidating, but expert guidance will help you start with a simple project and build confidence.
LET’S EAT! ⚙☑
Tues | Mar 18 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Thurs | Mar 20 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Learn to make a cottage pie with step-bystep guidance from our culinary enthusiast librarian. Please register for only one of the programs to ensure others can participate. Bon appétit!
MEDICARE 101
Wed | Mar 5 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Medicare is a health insurance program for people 65+ years old and for those with certain disabilities. We will discuss the different parts of Medicare, how to make informed decisions about coverage, and the broader categories of cost, restrictions, and additional benefits. Presented by local Medicare Agent Rita Bancroft of Connie Health, a team of licensed Medicare experts.
MESA ARTS CENTER’S CLASSICAL MUSIC INSIDE OUT SERIES PRESENTS: ZUILL BAILEY
Tues | Mar 4 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR
Grammy-winning cellist Zuill Bailey offers an engaging “Concert 101” experience, blending performance and interactive insights to inspire all ages to appreciate classical music.
MESA EXPERIENCE CORPS INFORMATION SESSION
Tues | Mar 25 | 11:00am – 12:30pm | DR
Experience Corps Mesa is preparing for the 2025-2026 school year and needs volunteers to support struggling readers in Mesa. We train adults 50+ to tutor at-risk elementary students in Mesa Public Schools. This session is for anyone interested in learning about or applying to volunteer. Staff will explain the program, outline volunteer expectations, and answer questions. Participants can also complete an application and have an on-site interview.
MORNING CRAFTS ⚙
Wednesdays | 10:00am – 11:30am | RM
Explore new projects with other crafters.
ONE STITCH AT A TIME ⚙
Tuesdays | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM
Thurs | Mar 6 | 1:00pm – 3:00pm | DR 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 COMPETITION ⚙☑
Sat | Mar 15 | 2:15pm – 4:00pm | MN
Sat | Mar 29 | 2:15pm – 4:00pm | DR
Teams of 2-3 will race to complete a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle in under 2 hours. Find your team and have one person register at one of the branches. The puzzle will be the same for all dates, so please register for only one. The winning team will receive a special creation from THINKspot. Ages 12+.
PUZZLE SWAP
Sat | Mar 29 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR
Ready for a new puzzle? Bring your gently used jigsaw puzzlez (with all pieces included) to the Dobson Ranch Library on Saturday, March 22 to Friday, March 28. You’ll receive a coupon during the drop-off period. Bring your coupon on Saturday, March 29 to exchage it for a new puzzle. Limit 5 coupons per family.
RPG AT THE LIBRARY ⚙
Sat | Mar 29 | 3:30pm – 4:30pm | 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: APRONS ⚙☑
Wed | Mar 19 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN Learn how to use our Brother sewing machines by creating an apron.
SEWING CIRCLE⚙
Sat | Mar 15, 29 | 11:00am – 1:00pm | RM
Sewers of all experience levels are welcome! Discuss your current project, receive guidance, or try out our beginner projects using our sewing machines.
SHRED DAY
Sat | Mar 29 | 9:00am – 11:00am | RM
Get your sensitive documents shredded for free by ProShred®. You can bring paper, file folders, hanging files, notepads, and junk mail (Limit 4 standard-size bankers’ boxes) to this drive-thru event.
SMART CYCLING FUNDAMENTALS ☑
Wed | Mar 12 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR Wed | Mar 26 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | RM
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 streets. All participants will receive a free “Get Started Safely” kit that includes a helmet, bicycle lights, and more. Ages 12+.
SURVIVAL GUIDE TO BUYING OR SELLING A HOME
Sat | Mar 8 | 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.
TAKE A BETTER HEADSHOT
Sat | Mar 1 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | RM
Get a great headshot using THINKspot’s studio or your phone, with guidance from our volunteer and librarian.
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 480834-2122. No walk-ins during this time. Walk-ins (12pm – 2:30pm): first come, first served. For more information and locations, visit prepareandempower.org
BOOK GROUPS
BUSY HANDS BOOK CLUB
Tues | Mar 4 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
The Book Woman of Troublesome CreekKim Michele Richardson
Bring your needlework project to work on while we talk about the book of the month.
CHEER READERS
Tues | Mar 25 | 5:00pm – 6:30pm | OFFSITE The Murmur of Bees - Sofia Segovia
COZY MURDER MYSTERIES ��
Tues | Mar 18 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | MEL
Come with a blanket and your favorite cozy sweater to talk cozy mystery books.
FICTION FOLKS
Thurs | Mar 13 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR By Any Other Name - Jodi Picoult
NOVEL APPROACH
Mon | Mar 10 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | OFFSITE Tomorrow and Tomorrow and TomorrowGabrielle Zevin
SILENT BOOK CLUB ⚙
Wed | Mar 26 | 6:30pm – 7:30pm | RM
Bring a book of your choice and read in companionable silence with others. Then, stick around to discuss your reading.
WHO PICKED THIS BOOK?
Tues | Mar 4 | 10:30am – 12:00pm | OFFSITE Lessons in Chemistry - Bonnie Garmus
COMICS PLUS
Get unlimited access to thousands of digital comics, graphic novels, manga, and picture books from dozens of publishers. Download the app at mesalibrary.org/downloadables.
BOOKMOBILE
Mesa Public Library is excited to introduce the Read Runner, a new bookmobile to 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.
MAIN LIBRARY
SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION
Construction of eight solar covered parking canopies is in progress at the Main Library. 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. For details, visit mesalibrary.org.
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 soon 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.
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY
COMPUTER BASICS
Wed | Mar 19, 26 | 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.
Mar 19 – Mousing basics
Mar 26 – Keyboard/typing basics
COMPUTER SKILLS TRAINING ⚙
Tues | Mar 11 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | DR
Tues | Mar 25 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | RM
Thurs | Mar 27 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR
Use interactive training from Northstar’s Digital Literacy program to build your email, internet, social media, and software skills.
EXPLORING VR⚙
Thurs | Mar 6 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN☑
Wed | Mar 26 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | DR
Explore the world of VR with us through different apps, games, and short films that will engage users in a variety of ways. This program was made possible by Mesa West Rotary District 5495.
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 MICROSOFT EXCEL⚙☑ †
Tues | Mar 4 | 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 | Mar 5 | 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.
INTRODUCTION TO THE 3D PRINTER⚙☑
Mon | Mar 10 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR Fri | Mar 21 | 11:00am – 12:30pm | DR
Explore THINKspot’s creative options and learn how to start using the 3D printer with downloaded designs.
INTRODUCTION TO THE GLOWFORGE⚙
Fri | Mar 7 | 10:00am – 11:00am | RM
Never find a laser engraver or printer intimidating again. Our introductory class will focus on developing files and the process of using the Glowforge for your upcoming projects.
† 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.
