Drop in and make a card to show your appreciation for First Responders! Volunteers will deliver cards to Mesa’s police and fire stations.
Hydration Donation Campaign
The City of Mesa works with nonprofit agencies and businesses to collect bottles of water which are distributed through United Food Bank to numerous agencies in the valley.
Drop off cases of water at collection points around Mesa, including the Main, Red Mountain, or Dobson Ranch libraries, or donate money online.
Learn more at: mesaaz.gov/H2OMesa
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 at Mesa Express Library are held outdoors; please come prepared for the elements.
Need a library card? Scan this code to apply online!
Library Card Application mesalibrary.org/getacard
HOLIDAY HOURS Mon | Sept 2 | Closed
This newsletter is recyclable. For recycling information, visit mesarecycles.org
ALL AROUND THE TOWN
Tues | Sept 24 | 10:30am – 11:30am | RM
Explore a variety of activity stations, each representing different places you would find around a town. Stops include the grocery store, a construction site, and an art gallery where kids can paint their own creation. Ages 4-6.
APPLE PICKIN’ PARTY
Tues | Sept 17 | 10:00am – 11:00am | RM
We’ve gathered hands-on apple crafts and activities for play and learning to jump-start your fall. Ages 3-5.
BUILDING BLOCKS CLUB
Mon | Sept 16 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Sat | Sept 21 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR
Sat | Sept 28 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM
Explore your creative side with LEGO® and DUPLO® blocks.
BIG BAD WOLF STEM ACTIVITY
Wed | Sept 11 | 2:30pm – 3:30pm | RM
After reading The Three Little Pigs together, we will build strong houses and test them against the Big Bad Wolf’s blowing power to see how well they stand. Ages 5-9.
CRAFT-IN MOVIE: SHREK
Wed | Sept 18 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | DR
Watch Shrek and do themed crafts.
FAMILY MATINEE: COCO
Sat | Sept 14 | 2:30pm – 4:30pm | MN
Each month, we will show a different familyfriendly movie. This month’s movie is Coco. Rated PG.
I AM AN ARTIST: DIEGO RIVERA
Thurs | Sept 19 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Create your own masterpiece in the style of artist Diego Rivera.
JUNIOR DETECTIVE BOOK CLUB
Wed | Sept 11 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | DR
Join us for a discussion about mouse detective Geronimo Stilton. This month we will be reading Cat and Mouse in a Haunted House. Ages 6+.
STORYTIMES KIDS
BABY LAPSIT
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | DR
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | MN
Fridays | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM
K-CODE ⚙
Sat | Sept 14, 28 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN
You don’t need to be a computer whiz to learn the fundamentals of coding. We’ll use logic games and exercises to help children build cognitive skills that will be a strong foundation for learning how to code. For ages 4-6.
TEDDY BEAR PICNIC STORYTIME
Sat | Sept 28 | 10:00am – 11:00am | DR
Bring your teddy bear to storytime for a teddy bear picnic! Enjoy bear songs, stories, and make a bear hat. Ages 3-5.
FAMILY TRIVIA DAY!
Sat | Sept 7 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | OFFSITE
Have fun with an hour of trivia questions that you and your family will enjoy at Basis Charter SchoolMesa (5010 S. Eastmark Pkwy).
Fri | Sept 6, 20 | 8:00am – 8:30am | MEL ��
Introduces the rhythm and beauty of language to babies ages birth-16 months.
COYOTE STORY
Tues | Sept 24 | 3:30pm – 5:00pm | RM
Local children’s author Jeremy Koehn will be reading his new book My Butterfly Friend using songs and an interactive display. Ages 3-9.
CUENTOS EN ESPANOL WITH LOCAL
AUTHOR MARLENE DAVIS
Sat | Sept 28 | 10:30am – 11:00am | RM
Local author Marlene Davis presents Cuentos en Español. Join us for songs, stories, words, letters, numbers, and general silliness in this storytime designed to prepare children for kindergarten. Ages 3-5.
DRAGONS LOVE TACOS STORYTIME AND CRAFT
Wed | Sept 18 | 2:30pm – 3:30pm | RM
Enjoy a storytime and craft. Ages 5-9.
FAMILY STORYTIME ��
Sat | Sept 14 | 10:30am – 11:00am | MEL
Bring the whole family for stories, songs, and literacy-boosting activities. Birth-5.
LITERACY THRU DRAMA WITH MESA ARTS CENTER
Fri | Sept 6 | 10:30am – 11:00am | DR Fri | Sept 27 | 10:30am – 11:00am | RM Bring picture books to life by going on an imaginative adventure in this dramafocused 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.
Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM �� Wednesdays | 10:30am – 11:00am | RM �� Join us for songs, stories, and silliness in this kindergarten readiness storytime. Ages 3-5.
TINKERING FOR TODDLERS
Fri | Sept 13 | 10:00am – 11:45am | DR A STEAM-based storytime that gives toddlers the opportunity to explore, be curious, and practice independent thinking. Ages 2-4.
Thurs | Sept 26 | 10:30am – 11:00am | OFFSITE Incorporates stories, music, and movement for children ages 16-36 months.
TWEENS
APP ARTIST⚙
Coming September 2024! In partnership with First Things First, the Mesa Family Resource Center located on the lower level of the Main Library will open its doors in September to offer free programming, activities, workshops and resources for families with children ages birth to five.
ages 8-12
Tues | Sept 3, 17 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN
Learn vector graphics, raster graphics, pixel graphics, animation, and more. Limited to the first 8 participants.
EMOTIONS MATTER WORKSHOP
Wed | Sept 25 | 3:30pm – 4:30pm | RM
Local author Marlene Davis shares a quick and easy technique for understanding, accepting, and processing emotions.
TEENS ages 12-18
MATH TUTORING FOR TEENS
Tues | Sept 10, 17, 24 | 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 reading, math, science, and writing for students in grades K-12.
SEW A TOTE BAG⚙
Thurs | Sept 5 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN
Learn how to sew a tote bag of your very own. Beginners welcome!
OPEN CHESS FOR TWEENS
Sat | Sept 21 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN
Meet fellow chess players and challenge yourself with new opponents at the library.
POPSICLE STICK BUILD CHALLENGE
Wed | Sept 25 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | DR
Join us for building challenges using popsicle sticks, binder clips, and rubber bands.
RPG AT THE LIBRARY
Wed | Sept 18 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | 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.
TEEN TIME: VINYL STICKERS⚙☑
Tues | Sept 3 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | DR
Hang out and learn something new! Get started using THINKspot’s Cameo and learn how to cut a custom vinyl sticker.
TEEN ADVISORY BOARD
Sat | Sept 14 | 3:00 – 4:00pm | 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 MENTAL HEALTH SERIES
Mon | Sept 9, 16, 23 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Your mental well-being matters. Teens, join us as we explore the significance of mental health. Discover how it shapes your life, recognize signs and symptoms of mental illness, and learn techniques and coping mechanisms to help your overall mental health.
ADULTS
ASK A MASTER GARDENER
Sat | Sept 14 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM
University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners will answer questions about gardening and landscaping.
ADOPT A DESERT TORTOISE ��
Tues | Sept 17 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | MEL
Join the Desert Tortoise Adoption Coordinator from Arizona Game and Fish. Meet a live tortoise and learn how you can welcome one to your yard. Please note that only Arizona residents can adopt. This program will review the adoption process, general tortoise care and allow time for a Q&A.
AUTOMOTIVE 101
Thurs | Sept 19 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN
Learn the basics of car components, maintenance routines, and automotive care in this 4-part series. This month we will learn about basic engine parts and repair. Presented by Thomas Mundo from Network Automotive.
COLORING CLUB
Thurs | Sept 5 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | RM
CRAFT NIGHT
Wed | Sept 18 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
Try your hand at a low-stakes craft night. This month we’ll make quirky cork magnets.
ESL CONVERSATION CLASS
Saturdays | 1:00pm – 2:30pm | MN
Practice English listening and speaking skills. Please bring a notebook and pencil.
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.
RPG AT THE LIBRARY⚙
Sat | Sept 28 | 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.
SEWING A SCRAPPY MUG RUG⚙☑
Mon | Sept 9 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR
Explore THINKspot’s creative options and learn how to use our sewing machines to make scrappy coasters. Must have knowledge of basic sewing machine operation.
SEW A TOTE BAG⚙
Thurs | Sept 26 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Learn how to sew a tote bag of your very own. Beginners welcome!
SURVIVAL GUIDE TO BUYING OR SELLING A HOME
Sat | Sept 14 | 10:00am – 11:00am | DR
Buying or selling a house can be intimidating. This seminar will help you prepare for crucial aspects of the process.
SMART CYCLING FUNDAMENTALS☑
Wed | Sept 25 | 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 streets. All participants will receive a free “Get Started Safely” kit that includes a helmet, bicycle lights, and more. Ages 12+.
Relax and color your stress away.
BOOK GROUPS
BUSY HANDS BOOK CLUB
Tues | Sept 10 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
The Dutch House – Ann Patchett
Bring your needlework project to work on while we talk about the book of the month.
CHEER READERS
Tues | Sept 24 | 5:00pm – 6:30pm | OFFSITE
The Sparrow – Mary Doris Russell
FICTION FOLKS
Thurs | Sept 12 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR
Tom Lake – Ann Patchett
Knowledge is power
Continue your education with Universal Class. With your library card, you can access over 600 self-paced online continuing education courses! Courses include:
• Microsoft Office Suite
• QuickBooks
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Accounting
• Business Consulting
• and more!
NOVEL APPROACH
Mon | Sept 9 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | OFFSITE
A Cold Day for Murder – Dana Stabenow WHO PICKED THIS BOOK?
Tues | Sept 3 | 10:30am – 12:00pm | OFFSITE
Ask Again, Yes – Mary Beth Keane
AUTOBOTS, ROLL OUT... TO THE LIBRARY!
This month, the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide are celebrating the many benefits of having a library card. If you live, work, or go to school in Maricopa County, you’re eligible for a free library card. Already have one? Share the love and encourage a friend to sign up!
A library card can transform your life by providing access to valuable resources including online learning courses, makerspace tools, reliable databases, ebooks, audiobooks, Culture Passes, and so much more.
Don’t miss out on all the benefits a library card offers. Visit us in person or online for more details on how to get or renew your card today: mesalibrary.org/getacard
TRY OUR NEWEST APP!
Track your reading, complete challenges, add friends, and write reviews all year long with Beanstack!
Create an account at mesapl.beanstack.org or get the app for Android or iOS.
WRITER IN RESIDENCE
Improve your writing with our Writer in Residence services. From September to December, author Sharon Skinner will offer oneon-one consultations and engaging workshops at the Main Library to support both aspiring and established authors.
Learn more at: mesalibrary.org/writerinresidence
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 ☑
Fridays | 2:00pm – 4:30pm | MN
Sat | Sept 7, 28 | 9:30am – 12:00pm | MN
Sat | Sept 7, 14, 28 | 3:30pm – 4:30pm | MN
Thurs | Sept 12 | 6:30pm – 7:30pm | MN
Fri | Sept 13 | 9:30am – 12:00pm | MN
Wed | Sept 25 | 6:30pm – 7:30pm | MN
Sharon Skinner is offering 30-minute one-one-one consultation sessions. To book a time slot, visit mesalibrary.org/writerinresidence.
YOUR PERSONAL PATH TO PUBLICATION
Sat | Sept 14 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | MN
Learn about publishing and the variety of resources available to writers.
ONE-PAGE BLUEPRINT FOR A BOOK
Thurs | Sept 26 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN
Learn about the one-page blueprint as a tool to help you stay focused on your story’s basics and purpose, especially during revisions.
COMPUTERS & Technology
COMPUTER BASICS †
Wed | Sept 11, 18, 25 | 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. Sept 11 & 18 – Microsoft Excel Sept 25 – Internet Basics
COMPUTER SKILLS TRAINING
Fri | Sept 6 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR
Thurs | Sept 19 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR
Use interactive training from Northstar’s Digital Literacy program to build your email, internet, social media, and software skills.
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 ⚙☑†
INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED EXCEL
Wed | Sept 11 | 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.
Tues | Sept 10 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | DR
Learn the foundations of Microsoft Excel, including how to create, edit, and format data in a spreadsheet.
Collaborate, innovate, explore, and learn in THINKspot—a makerspace inside the Dobson Ranch, Red Mountain and Main libraries. THINKspot has the technology and equipment for all your projects, including:
• 3D printers
• Podcasting kit
• Recording studio
• Sewing machines
• iMac computers
• and more!
Reserve equipment at mesalibrary.org/thinkspot
be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please
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).
MESA EXPRESS LIBRARY (MEL) AT MONTEREY PARK 7045 E. Monterey Ave. The library makes every effort to ensure our programs
To sign up for Expanded Access, see a staff member.
LOCATIONS
MAIN LIBRARY (MN) & THINKSPOT @ MAIN 64 E. 1st St.
