Mesa Public Library April 2024 Newsletter

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BEANSTACK READING TRACKER

Track your reading and join reading challenges with our newest app, Beanstack! Download the app for Apple or Android, then visit mesalibrary.org to get started.

How to read this guide:

☑ Registration required

�� Ticketed event

Tickets are handed out 30 min prior to program start.

† Prerequisite

News & Events

Must be comfortable using a mouse and a keyboard.

⚙ THINKspot Program

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

KIDS

BUILDING BLOCKS CLUB

Mon | Apr 1, 15 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

Sat | Apr 20 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR

Sat | Apr 20 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM

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

CRAFT-IN MOVIE: MONSTERS, INC

Wed | Apr 3 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm | DR

Watch Monsters, Inc. and participate in themed crafts.

LET’S PLAY!

Sat | Apr 13 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN

Join us for a morning of play. Your child will learn a variety of skills exploring different interest areas. A materials kit with the theme will be available for check out. Ages 3-5.

STORY SCHOOL WITH MAKE WAY FOR BOOKS ☑

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | MN

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 3:00pm

This bilingual program will immerse caregivers and children in activities that foster the development of literacy, language, social-emotional skills, and positive approaches to learning. Sessions are held twice a week for 11 weeks. Participating families receive two books at each session to add to their child’s library.

STORYTIMES

ARTFUL TALES WITH THE I.D.E.A. MUSEUM

Fri | Apr 12 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | RM

Join us for storytime with the i.d.e.a. Museum as they read a book, show artwork, and provide a craft highlighting their current exhibit.

BABIES MAKE MUSIC

Tues | Apr 30 | 10:00am – 10:30am | RM

Let your baby explore the world of music with pots, shakers, bells, and other musical instruments.

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.

DESIGN TIME STORYTIME

Sat | Apr 27 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MN

This storytime introduces the creative process of art and design to families through songs, stories, games, and interactive plugged and unplugged activities. Ages 3-6.

WALK-IN WEDNESDAY CELEBRATES EARTH DAY

Wednesdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN

COVER TO COVER CLUB ☑

March 2 – April 13 | All Locations

Mesa Public Library is partnering with In-N-Out for the Cover to Cover Club. Children ages 4 to 12 must register in person to receive a reading log to keep track of the books they read. Read five books or 300 minutes to earn a voucher for a free hamburger or cheeseburger at any In-N-Out location! Vouchers must be redeemed at registration location. Ask staff for more information.

FAMILY STORYTIME

Sat | Apr 6 | 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 | Apr 5 | 10:30am – 11:00am | DR

Fri | Apr 19 | 10:30am – 11:00am | MN

Fri | Apr 26 | 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.

LUNCHTIME TALES

Wed | Apr 24 | 12:30pm – 1:00pm | MEL

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

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

STORYTIME WITH AN EVERYDAY HERO

Fri | Apr 12 | 10:00am – 10:45am | OFFSITE

The City of Mesa’s solid waste department will join us for a special storytime! Find all pop-up storytime locations at mesalibrary.org.

TINKERING FOR TODDLERS

Fri | Apr 12 | 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.

TODDLERTIME

Mondays | 9:30am – 10:00am | RM ��

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.

TWEENS ages 8-12

3 LITTLE PIGS BUILDING CHALLENGE

Mon | Apr 8 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

Put your building skills to the test as you create kid-sized shelters in three rounds to survive the huff and puff of the big bad wolf simulator!

APP ARTIST ⚙

Tues | Apr 2, 16, 30 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

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

CRAFT-ISH ⚙

Tues | Apr 9, 23 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

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

Apr 9 - Journal making

Apr 23 - Paper making

TEENS

ages 12-18

ADVENTURES IN VR: CAREER EXPLORATION ⚙

Sat | Apr 13 | 2:00pm – 3:30pm | MN

Discover new careers at the library by immersing yourself in VR to test-drive different careers without leaving the

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 SPORTS:

MUAY THAI

Sat | Apr 20 | 10:00am – 11:00am | MEL

Each month, we will explore a sport from a different part of the world. This month, we will learn about this kickboxing sport with an expert from Arizona Muay Thai.

CAREER DISCOVERY AND STUDENT AID FOR TEENS (& PARENTS)

Tues | Apr 23 | 5:00pm – 6:00pm | MN

Learn about how to choose your career or education pathway, what careers are in demand and have the highest earning potential, and how to apply for Federal Student Aid options.

CRAF-TEEN: PAINTING SERIES

Thurs | Apr 11 | 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.

FANTASY READERS UNITE!

Wed | Apr 17 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | DR

Love fantasy books? Join us for this monthly group! This month we will discuss The Ogress and the Orphans by Kelly Barnhill.

GAMING FOR TWEENS

Wed | Apr 10 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN

Join in the fun! Bring your friends and find out who the ultimate Super Smash champion is.

RPG AT THE LIBRARY

Wed | Apr 3 | 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.

ORIGAMI FOR KIDS

Sat | Apr 20 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN

Come by and learn the Japanese art of paper-folding! We’ll introduce you to easy, medium, and difficult levels.

KNITTING AND CROCHET CIRCLE

Mon | Apr 22 | 5:00pm 6:00pm | MN

Learn basic stitches or work on existing projects in the Teen Zone. Snacks and yarn will be available while supplies last.

LET’S EAT! ⚙☑

Thurs | Apr 4 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN

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

MATH TUTORING

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 High School will help with math, science, and writing for students in grades K-12.

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD ⚙

Sat | Apr 6 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm | 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.

THINKspot STEM LAB ⚙

Wed | Apr 17 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN

Stop by for some imaginative STEMbased exploration. You can be a scientist, computer programmer, engineer, mathematician...the possibilities are endless!

Thurs | Apr 18 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | MN

Watch The Hunger Games in the Teen Zone and enjoy some snacks!

TEEN TIME ⚙☑

Wed | Apr 3 | 4:00pm – 5:30pm | DR

Thurs | Apr 18 | 4:00pm – 5:00 pm | DR

Hang out and learn something new! Apr 3 - Intro to the 3D Printer Apr 18 - Upcycled T-shirt Bag

TRUE CRIME SOLVERS

Thurs | Apr 25 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | MN We will be solving true crime cases with real case file evidence!

TEEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR OUR SUMMER READING PROGRAM

We need teen volunteers (ages 14-17) to be a part of our Summer Reading Program team! Applications accepted now through April 30. You’ll help customers register for the program, assist with events and activities, and shelve library materials. Apply at: mesalibrary.org/SRPvolunteer

CRAFT NIGHT

Wed | Apr 17 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR

Try your hand at a low-stakes craft night. This month we’ll be making yarn-wrapped words.

EL CAMINO FRANCES

Sat | Apr 27 | 2:00pm – 3:30pm | RM

The French Camino, an ancient path across the north of the Iberian Peninsula, has been used by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims since the 12th century. Darryl and Kathleen Toupkin will discuss their adventure on the Camino.

ESL CONVERSATION CLASS

Saturdays | 1:00pm – 2:30pm | MN

Sat | Apr 6, 13, 20 | 1:00pm – 3:00pm | RM

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

GENETIC NETWORKS IN GENEALOGY

Sat | Apr 13 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM

What are genetic networks and why are they important? Genealogist Ken Waters explain how they can help with your family tree.

INTRODUCTION TO

THE 3D PRINTER ⚙☑†

Tues | Apr 30 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR

Explore THINKspot’s creative options and learn the basics of our 3D printer.

Prana, or life-force energy, is all around us. Learn the basics of this meditation technique.

LET’S EAT! ⚙☑

Thurs | Apr 25 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN

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

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.

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Tues | Apr 30 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN

Join us for Open Mic Night at the library. Bring your poetry, music, or spoken word to the event.

RPG AT THE LIBRARY ⚙

Sat | Apr 27 | 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.

SUMMER GARDENING IN ARIZONA

Thurs | Apr 11 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN

ADULTS

SURVIVAL GUIDE TO BUYING OR SELLING A HOME

Sat | Apr 20 | 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.

VINYL CUTTING WITH THE CAMEO ⚙☑ †

Mon | Apr 8 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | DR

Learn about the Cameo Vinyl Cutter and the free Silhouette Studio Software that you can use to create designs.

VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) PROGRAM ☑

Tues – Friday | Jan 30 – Apr 12

10:00am – 2:30pm | RM

VITA offers free tax help to those who generally make $64,000 or less annually, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. IRS-certified volunteers from Mesa United Way will provide basic income tax return preparation to qualified individuals. Registration is required for 10am-12pm sessions; please see our online events calendar for more information. Walk-in services will be available 12pm-2:30pm, first come, first served. VITA will be closed Friday, March 29.

YOGA FOR BEGINNERS

Sat | Apr 20 | 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.

Learn the fundamentals for successful vegetable gardening during Arizona’s hot, dry summer months. This program is cosponsored by Mesa Urban Garden (which was recently designated as a People’s Garden through a USDA grant).

Book Groups

BUSY HANDS BOOK CLUB

Tues | Apr 9 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | MN

Carnegie’s Maid – Marie Benedict

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

CHEER READERS

Tues | Apr 30 | 5:00pm – 6:00pm | OFFSITE

Klara and the Sun – Kazuo Ishiguro

Thurs | Apr 11 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR

The First Ladies – Marie Benedict

NOVEL APPROACH

Mon | Apr 8 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | OFFSITE TBD – TBD

WHO PICKED THIS BOOK?

Tues | Apr 2 | 10:30am – 12:00pm | OFFSITE TBD – TBD

Family Fun

EAST VALLEY CHILDREN’S THEATER EXPRESS ACTING TROUPE

Sat | Apr 6 | 10:00am – 10:45am | RM

Mon | Apr 8 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN

EVCT Express is an acting troupe for kids ages 8-16. Each semester, students devise a new short play and tour it around the East Valley.

EAST VALLEY CHILDREN’S THEATER BRAVO MUSICAL TROUPE

Tues | Apr 2 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN

Sat | Apr 20 | 10:00am – 10:45am | RM

MPL ♥ ��

Since 1970, Earth Day has been celebrated on April 22 as a way to mark the importance of taking care of our environment. We’re working to make sure our everyday practices are good for the planet we all share. Here are some ways the library can help you be more eco-friendly.

�� You’ve heard “reduce, reuse, recycle.” Checking out books is the ultimate “reuse”! (books at the end of their life are recycled)

�� Attend a library event! Supplies used at our craft programs are often upcycled materials.

EVCT Bravo is a musical theatre troupe for teens. Each semester, students devise a new musical performance piece and tour it around the East Valley.

ECLIPSE CELEBRATION

Mon | Apr 8 | 10:00am – 10:45am | MEL

Come and celebrate the solar eclipse with crafts and STEAM activities.

FAMILY MATINEE: THE SECRET OF NIMH

Sat | Apr 13 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm | MN

Each month, we will show a different familyfriendly movie. This month’s movie is The Secret of NIMH.

MESA COMMUNITY COLLEGE ROSE GARDEN TOUR

Wed | Apr 10 | 9:30am – 10:00am | OFFSITE

Join us to explore a hidden gem in Mesa: The Rose Garden at Mesa Community College. Volunteers will meet you at the front of the garden to give you a tour as well as tips on how to grow these beauties in your backyard.

MESA URBAN GARDEN TOUR ☑

Sat | Apr 6 | 9:00am – 9:45am | OFFSITE

Tour Mesa Urban Garden for a fun-filled and educational experience. Learn about gardening, composting, and more. Take & Make crafts will be available while supplies last.

CELEBRATE MESA

Sat | Apr 13 | 10:00am – 2:00pm | Pioneer Park

Celebrate Mesa and all it has to offer at this annual family festival! Enjoy free entertainment and various Earth-friendly activities.

�� Check out items from our Stuffbrary to reduce the amount of stuff you buy. Why spend money on a cake pan when you can borrow it instead!

�� Check out a TrickleStar Energy monitor to analyze your household appliance and electronic use.

�� Lower your carbon footprint by growing your own food. Seeds from our Seed Library will help you get started.

�� The City of Mesa has an established Climate Action Plan, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, build resilience in our community, and increase sustainability in City operations to address the negative outcomes of a changing climate. Read the plan at: mesaaz.gov/climateaction

�� Learn more about what we’re doing to make Mesa Public Library a more sustainable organization at: mesalibrary.org/about/library–sustainability

�� Get more tips on living green at: mesaaz.gov/sustainability

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.

Apr 3 – Internet basics

Apr 10 – Email basics

Apr 17 – Mouse basics

Apr 24 – Keyboard basics

COMPUTER SKILLS TRAINING

Fri | Apr 5 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MN

Wed | Apr 10 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR

Fri | Apr 12 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | RM

Tues | Apr 23 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | DR

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

HOTSPOT DIGITAL HELP DESK

Sat | Apr 13, 27 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | MN

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 during these sessions for one-on-one assistance on a first-come, first-served basis.

INTRODUCTION TO MICROSOFT

EXCEL ⚙☑†

Tues | Apr 9 | 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 10 | 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.

USING LIBRARY APPS TO DOWNLOAD EBOOKS

Mon | Apr 22 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | DR

Learn how to use the Libby and CloudLibrary apps to download ebooks and audiobooks from the Library to your smartphone or tablet. Please bring your library card, device, email address, and password. If you are using a Kindle, please bring your Amazon account information.

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.

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.

MESA EXPRESS LIBRARY (MEL) AT MONTEREY PARK 7045 E. Monterey Ave.

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

480-644-3100 mesalibrary.org
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