The local library is an exceptional source for community members to access educational reading materials, computer usage, copy machine and printer services, and entertainment. Whether you are from Mesa, Arizona, or are just visiting, a trip to the library may be what you and your family need for some peace, quiet, and relaxation. The three local branches offer a wide array of services and products to enhance the lives of individuals and make literacy accessible to all community members. Learn about what the library offers, and read on to see how you can take advantage of your local library. 

Books, Movies, and Audiobooks

Image via Flickr by lydia_x_liu Licensed CC BY 2.0

The Mesa Library’s mission, to support lifelong learning, empower individuals, and strengthen the community, is accomplished by providing free resources to guests. The local library connects individuals with the means to learn, inspire, entertain, and enhance their lives through innovative and collaborative efforts. Patrons can check out books, ask the librarian for help in finding an item, or take advantage of the computer services, including Wi-Fi, to help fill out online documents or to research an interesting subject. With book releases and free weekly emails providing information about the latest books, movies, and music, you’ll never wonder about availability.

Check out your next great read. This online form gathers some information from you, including things like your favorite author, off-limit topics, and books you’ve enjoyed recently. From the information you provide, librarians will send you a list of personalized suggestions to help you locate your next text to devour. 

The library has a comprehensive reading list for kids from preschool to sixth grade. This service is ideal to help you find an adequate book, no matter your child’s reading level and interest. For an easy option to entertain the kids on the weekend, check out the wide collection of movies, animated series, and children’s cartoons available to borrow for free. There is a large children’s section that has animated motion picture favorites like “Coraline” and recent top series like “Cobra Kai: Season 3.” 

If you don’t have time to read but want to push through that new suspense or romance novel, ask about the selection of audiobooks for library patrons. With hundreds to choose from, they are an ideal option if you want to listen to something of substance on your daily commute. 

Downloadables and Apps

If you have an alternate work schedule, or are busy with after-school activities with the kids and can’t make it to the library during regular business hours, your library card empowers you to access many services online without setting foot into a building. Using the library’s free myLIBRO app, your card, and PIN, you can visit the library virtually 24-hours a day, 365-days a year.

Search the library’s collection, place holds, and manage your library account right from home. The easily accessible Barcode Wallet lets you store your entire family’s library cards for easy access. Get free downloadable materials, including magazines, audiobooks, and music on your e-reader, tablet, computer, or mobile device. You can even use this library’s myLIBRO app to schedule a quick park and pickup to have a new bedtime story ready for the kids. The service is by appointment through the app myLIBRO. It’s available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Stuff-brary

The library offers a vast collection of items to check out that go beyond your traditional book or magazine. The library’s Stuff-brary features a collection of household items, play equipment, and more. Use your library card to borrow and gain access to some of the following:

• Binocular kits.
• Blood pressure cuffs.
• Cake pans.
• Croquet sets.
• Telescopes.

Story Time

The library is an opportune environment to help little ones see the value of literacy and support their growth through educational opportunities in a safe environment. The library offers a range of regularly scheduled story times gauged for a variety of ages. 

Baby Lapsit is available for babies from birth to 16 months. Toddle Time for children ages 16-36 months focuses on books with rhyme, song, and finger play to begin an early love for reading. The Pre-school story time for children 3-5 years old helps further develop literacy skills and models for caregivers activities to do with their children. Check out the take-and-make activity kits to bring learning home. 

Act One Culture Passes

Culture Passes from your Mesa Library help you and your family experience the Mesa, Arizona, community. Library users get a maximum of two free tickets per month to participating local cultural institutions. Some participating institutions include the Heard Museum, Cave Creek Museum, Pueblo Grande Museum, and even theater performances. Check the website for an updated list of events. 

Seed Library

Focused on enhancing the lives of community members in all aspects, including nutrition and environmental awareness, the library offers a Seed Library. The Seed Library allows local library cardholders to check out three seed packets per month for free. Choose from seasonal edible plants and herbs, bring your seeds home to grow, and save seeds to donate back to the library. All seed varieties are rotated seasonally and are suitable for the local environment. This service takes the guesswork out of gardening and is available during regular business hours.

Library Information

The three branches of the Mesa Public Library system are the Red Mountain Branch at 635 N. Powers Road, the Dobson Ranch Branch at 2425 S. Dobson Road, and the Main Branch at 64 E. Third St. The Mesa Public Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A self-service hour, at all branches, is available from 9 to 10 a.m., where patrons are welcome to check out computers and items with a library card using the self-service station. 

The Mesa Public Library is closed on Sunday. Before you head out to your local branch, be sure to check the website for any temporary closures, as the Dobson Ranch Branch expects to be under construction for a short time. For information about adult resources, or to learn how to get your library card, call 480-644-3100 to reach any of the three branches. 

So there you have it. Crème de la Crème of Mesa, Arizona, has just shared with you the wonderful resources available at your local library. What do you think of our list of suggestions? Did we miss your favorite thing about the local library? If we did, let us know! Leave a message sharing your thoughts and we’ll be happy to check out your ideas.