Mesa Public Library May 2024 Newsletter

REGISTRATION FOR SUMMER READING OPENS MAY

1

Read books, enjoy events, and win prizes!

It’s easy to participate and the adventures are endless. Read at least 20 minutes every day this summer (Jun 1 - Aug 1) and keep track of your minutes with a printed or online tracker until you reach 1,000 points. All ages are invited to participate!

mesalibrary.org/summerreading

How to read this guide:

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

BIKE TO BOOKS DESIGN CONTEST

Mesa Public Library and the City of Mesa Bicycle and Pedestrian Program invite kids to design bike lane art for Mesa’s streets! Contest entries will be collected May 1 - July 31.

mesalibrary.org/biketobooks

KIDS

BUILDING BLOCKS CLUB

Sat | May 4 | 10:00am – 11:00am | RM

Mon | May 13 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

Sat | May 18 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR

Explore your creative side with LEGO® and DUPLO® blocks.

CRAFT-IN MOVIE: MOANA

Wed | May 1 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | DR

Watch Moana and participate in themed crafts.

CRAFTS FROM A GALAXY FAR AWAY

Sat | May 4 | All Day | DR

Celebrate everyone’s favorite far away galaxy with self-guided crafts all day in the children’s area.

KIDS’ KITCHEN ADVENTURES

Wed | May 22 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

Calling all little chefs! Explore new recipes, taste new foods, and discover a culinary talent. This month we’ll learn about seasonal fruits. Supplies are limited. Ages 5-11.

LET’S PLAY!

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.

LIBRARY AT THE MCC PLANETARIUM

Tues | May 28 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | OFFSITE

Join the Mesa Public Library at the Mesa Community College Planetarium for an out-of-this-world show featuring astronomy and all our favorite friends from Sesame Street! Take & Make kits will be available for ages 5-11.

DESIGN TIME STORYTIME

Sat | May 25 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN

This storytime introduces the creative process of art and design to families through songs, stories, games, and

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.

FAMILY

EAST VALLEY NEW HORIZONS

SENIOR ORCHESTRA

Mon | May 20 | 10:30am – 12:00pm | MN

Enjoy a free concert for all ages.

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.

LUNCHTIME TALES

Wed | May 15 | 12:30pm – 1:00pm | MEL

Bring a lunch, listen to a story, and create something all your own. Ages 5-12.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME

Tuesdays | 10:00am – 10:30am | DR

Tuesdays | 10:00am – 10:30am | MN

Tuesdays | 10:30am – 11:00am | MN

Wednesdays | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM

Join us for songs, stories, and silliness in this kindergarten readiness storytime. Ages 3-5.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME PRESENTS: MESA FIRE & MEDICAL

Tues | May 7 | 10:00am – 10:30am | DR

City of Mesa Fire and Medical join us for a special storytime!

FAMILY MATINEE: LILO & STITCH

Sat | May 11 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm | MN

Each month, we will show a different family-friendly movie. This month’s movie is Lilo & Stitch.

STORYTIME WITH AN EVERYDAY HERO

Wed | May 8 | 2:00pm – 2:30pm | OFFSITE

for a special storytime! Find all pop-up storytime locations at mesalibrary.org.

TINKERING FOR TODDLERS

Fri | May 10 | 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.

TWEENS

APP ARTIST⚙

ages 8-12

Tues | May 7, 21 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

Learn vector graphics, raster graphics, pixel graphics, animation, and more. Limited to the first 8 participants.

CHESS PLAY-A-THON

Fri | May 10 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

Chess players and enthusiasts, find new opponents to sharpen your skills at the library with the ASU Chess Team.

CRAFT-ISH⚙

Tues | May 14, 28 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

We’ll cut, glue, and draw away the afternoon! Supplies are limited.

May 14 – Painting with Markers

May 28 – Wood Burning

TEENS

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB

Wed | May 22 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR

Expand your creative writing skills each

FANTASY READERS UNITE!

Wed | May 15 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR

Love fantasy books? Join us for this monthly group! This month we will The Marvellers by Dhonielle

CRAF-TEEN: PAINTING SERIES

Thurs | May 9 | 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.

LET’S EAT! ⚙☑

Thurs | May 2 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN

FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS

Wed | May 29 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR

Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan or not, bring your bestie and make a friendship bracelet! Make one for you and a friend.

RPG AT THE LIBRARY

Wed | May 1 | 3:45pm – 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.

Mon | May 20 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

Create your own polka-dotted pumpkins inspired by Yayoi Kusuma’s signature style.

TEEN MATINEE: SHREK

Thurs | May 23 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN

Watch Shrek in the Teen Zone and enjoy some snacks!

Join us on a delicious journey as we explore the art of cooking with stepby-step guidance from our culinary enthusiast librarians. Bon appétit!

Tues | May 7, 14, 21 | 3:00pm – 5:00pm | RM

Former math teacher Mr. Rogowski will help with homework, tests, and notes. 1:00pm | DR

Teen volunteers from local high schools will help with math, science, and writing

TEEN TIME ⚙

Wed | May 15 | 3:30pm – 5:00pm | DR

Wed | May 29 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | DR

Hang out and learn something new! May 15 - Intro to 3D Design & Printing May 29 - Gaming

TRUE CRIME SOLVERS

Thurs | May 16 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

We will be solving true crime cases with real case file evidence!

SEWING: PILLOWCASES FOR FOSTER KIDS

Fri | May 17 | 3:30pm – 5:00pm | MN

We will teach you how to make a pillowcase to donate to children in foster care. Materials and equipment provided. All skill levels welcome.

ADULTS

ARIZONA HUMANITIES PRESENTS: DR. PEARL TANG: PATH BREAKER IN PUBLIC HEALTH

Sat | May 11 | 2:30pm – 3:30pm | MN

Dr. Pearl Mao Tang, chief of Maricopa County Bureau of Maternal and Child Health, was instrumental in lowering the infant mortality rate. Public historian, Dr. Mary Melcher, explores Tang’s career, as well as historical conditions in Arizona. This program is made possible by Arizona Humanities.

AUTOMOTIVE 101

Tues | May 21 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN

Learn the basics of car components, maintenance routines, and automotive care. Presented by Thomas Mundo from Network Automotive.

COLORING CLUB

Thurs | May 2 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | RM

Relax and color your stress away or create a special card.

CRAFT NIGHT

Wed | May 15 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR

Try your hand at a low-stakes craft night. This month we’ll be making book page butterflies.

EMBROIDERY MACHINE DEMONSTRATION⚙☑

Thurs | May 16 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR

INTRODUCTION TO THE CAMEO ⚙☑†

Mon | May 13 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR

Get started using THINKspot’s Cameo and learn how to create designs in Silhouette Studio software. We’ll create vinyl cutouts to upcycle a glass jar into a candle holder.

LET’S EAT! ⚙☑

Thurs | May 9 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN

Join us on a delicious journey as we explore the art of cooking with stepby-step guidance from our culinary enthusiast librarians. Bon appétit!

MEDICARE 101

Thurs | May 16 | 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.

MEMOIR AND FAMILY HISTORY BASICS

Sat | May 11 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM

SURVIVAL GUIDE TO BUYING OR SELLING A HOME

Sat | May 18 | 10:00am – 11:00am | DR

Sat | May 25 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM

Buying or selling a house can be intimidating. This seminar will help you prepare for crucial aspects of the process.

SMART CYCLING FUNDAMENTALS☑

Wed | May 22 | 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 | May 2 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN

Watch a demonstration of our new Brother SE1900 embroidery machine.

ESL CONVERSATION CLASS

Saturdays | 1:00pm – 2:30pm | MN

Practice English listening and speaking skills. Please bring a notebook and pencil.

Local author Randy Lindsay will help you write about your unique family story. Explore which aspects of your life or family history you want to share and learn how to craft engaging memoirs and family stories. Discover what to include and omit, and the top 5 tips for captivating storytelling. Books will be available for sale and signing.

NAMI PRESENTS: IN OUR OWN VOICE

Thurs | May 23 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN

NAMI, National Alliance on Mental Illness, will host their In Our Own Voice presentation, offering valuable insights into the lived experiences of individuals coping with mental illness. Gain a deeper understanding and empathy through firsthand accounts.

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 | May 25 | 3:00pm – 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.

Dr. Ismael will talk about the archaeological sites of Sonora and Arizona that give us clues to how Ice Age megafauna and the first Sonoran people interacted. Sponsored by the Arizona Museum of Natural History.

USING WATO, WHAT ARE THE ODDS?☑

Sat | May 4 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM

Ken Waters, genealogist, will discuss the WATO (What are the Odds) tool for DNA matches.

YOGA FOR BEGINNERS

Sat | May 18 | 12:00pm – 2:00pm | RM

Engage in yoga postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques suitable for all skill levels. Stay for the full session for maximum benefits.

YOUR BEST MAKEUP LESSON

Sat | May 11 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM

Watch a makeup demo by Kathy Krakora, a clinical aesthetician and former Hollywood makeup artist with 25+ years experience in the beauty industry.

Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the United States since 1949 to bring awareness to the importance of mental health. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy

Here are some mental health resources that can be helpful. If you need

NATIONAL RESOURCES

Crisis Text Line text HOME from anywhere in the USA to 741741

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

The Trevor Project for LGBT youth 1-866-488-7386

Veterans Crisis Line

1-800-273-8255 (press 1)

LOCAL RESOURCES

2-1-1 community information and referral

211 or 1-877-211-8661

Maricopa County Crisis Hotline 602-222-9444 or 1-800-631-1314 (toll free) or 1-800-327-9254 (hearing impaired)

Teen Life Line (call or text)

NON-FICTION CALL NUMBERS

ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIPS................

ACNE/SKINCARE................................... 616.53, 646.7046

ALCOHOL...........................................................

BODY CHANGES/PUBERTY......................... 612.6, 613.95

BODY IMAGE........................................................

DEATH/LOSS...........................................................

DEPRESSION.........................................................

DIVORCE....................................................................

DRUGS/ADDICTION................................................

EATING DISORDERS............................................

HEALTH (GENERAL).......................................................

MENTAL

TOUGH TOPICS

Don’t want to ask for help finding resources? That’s okay. Tough topics can be found in the non-fiction section under the call numbers listed.

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.

May 1 – Keyboard basics

May 8, 15 – Microsoft Word

May 22,29 – Microsoft PowerPoint

COMPUTER SKILLS TRAINING

Tues | May 7 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR

Mon | May 20 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR

Fri | May 31 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | RM

Use interactive training from Northstar’s Digital Literacy program to build your email, internet, social media, and software skills.

BOOK GROUPS

BUSY HANDS BOOK CLUB

Tues | May 14 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN

HOTSPOT DIGITAL HELP DESK

Wednesdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MEL

Thursdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | RM

Curious about downloading ebooks, movies, music, magazines, and more from the library with your laptop, mobile device, or ereader? Drop in

INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED EXCEL⚙☑

Bring your needlework project to work on while we talk about the book of the

Tues | May 28 | 5:00pm – 6:00pm | OFFSITE – Isabel

NOVEL APPROACH

Mon | May 13 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | OFFSITE

The Cellist – Daniel Silva

WHO PICKED THIS BOOK?

Tues | May 7 | 10:30am – 12:00pm | OFFSITE

Desert Divide – Kelli Donley

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.

10:00am – 8:00pm 10:00am – 8:00pm 10:00am – 8:00pm 10:00am – 8:00pm 10:00am – 5:00pm 10:00am – 5:00pm

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.

Wed | May 8 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | DR 480-644-3100

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