THINKspot at the Dobson Ranch Library On February 1, 2023, we celebrated the completion of the expansion and renovation of the Dobson Ranch Library. This year-long construction project expanded the library’s footprint by 1600 square feet - adding a THINKspot makerspace - and improved and updated the façade of the building. This was the biggest renovation the Dobson Ranch Library has undergone since it was built in 1987. Funding for the renovation is from the Parks and Culture Bonds issue approved by Mesa voters in 2018.
THINKspot, a makerspace/workspace, is a place where the community can collaborate, innovate, explore, and learn. It offers training and access to high-tech equipment and innovative classes and programs. THINKspot equipment training is quick and easy: watch a video, complete the quiz, and sign a waiver. Once you’ve completed training, you can self-reserve THINKspot equipment.
Specific equipment may vary by location, but each THINKspot offers: • 3D printer(s) • Laser printer • Sewing machine(s) • Vinyl cutter • Studio with greenscreen • iMac with Adobe software Learn more about THINKspot at: mesalibrary.org/thinkspot
† Prerequisite: Must be comfortable using a mouse and a keyboard.
COMPUTER BASICS † Wed | Mar 1, 8, 22, 29 | 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; you are welcome to bring your own device. Mar 1 – Mouse basics Mar 8 – Keyboard basics Mar 22 – Keyboard basics Mar 29 – Microsoft Word
EXTRA! EXTRA!
From February through April, Mesa Public Library is hosting author Kelli DonleyWilliams as its very own Writer in Residence. She is the author of four novels: Under the Same Moon, Basket Baby, Counting Coup, and Desert Divide, all inspired by her passion for public health and service. 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 ☑ Tuesdays | 4:30pm – 6:30pm | RM Wednesdays | 4:30pm – 6:30pm | RM Author Kelli Donley-Williams is offering 30-minute consultation sessions for aspiring writers. Choose a time slot online. READING AS A WRITER Sat | Mar 11 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | RM Learn from successful authors’ works by reading with a critical eye.
GLOWFORGE TRAINING⚙ ☑ Wed | Mar 15 | 1:30pm – 4:00pm | RM Learn the basics of using our Glowforge laser printer. Once you complete training and sign a waiver, you can start reserving our Glowforge for personal use during THINKspot business hours. HOTSPOT DIGITAL HELP DESK Thursdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | RM Sat | Mar 4 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | MN 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 7 | 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 ☑ † Tues | Mar 14 | 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.
PLOTTING CONFLICTS IN FICTION Sat | Mar 18 | 12:30pm – 1:30pm | RM What would a book be without conflict, real or imagined?
READ ON MESA LITERACY SUMMIT Sat | Mar 4 | 10:00am – 2:00pm | DR Read On Mesa is a community literacy initiative. This literacy resource event will provide an opportunity to engage with all of the different literacy programs and resources available in our community. Families can learn important information about literacy in their child’s education. Plus, sign up to volunteer for the cause, drop off book donations, attend readings from special guests, enter a raffle to win prizes and much more!
DONATE DAY: BOOK DONATION DRIVE Sat | Mar 25 | 9:00am – 12:00pm | RM Donate books, magazines, movies, and music without leaving your car! Volunteers will be on hand to unload your donation. Can’t make it? Visit mesalibrary.org/donate to learn more about donations.
MAIN LIBRARY (MN) & THINKSPOT @ MAIN
64 E. 1st St. DOBSON RANCH LIBRARY (DR) & THINKSPOT @ DOBSON RANCH 2425 S. Dobson Rd.
How to Read this Guide: ☑
RED MOUNTAIN LIBRARY (RM) All locations are open 9:00am – 10:00am, Monday through Saturday, for self-service.
SPRING EQUINOX IN THE MONARCH GARDEN Sat | Mar 18 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM Celebrate the spring equinox at the Monarch Haven and Reading Sanctuary at Red Mountain Library. Southwest Monarch Study, City of Mesa Environmental and Sustainability staff and other special guests will share their expertise and provide giveaways. The spring equinox marks the start of the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere. The official spring equinox occurs on Monday, March 20, 2023 at 8:33 a.m.
Download magazines and newspapers 24 hours day, 7 days a week with your library card. Enjoy on your computer, tablet, phone, or other mobile device. Visit: mesalibrary.org/DigitalNewsstand
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
Writer in Residence
March 2023 News & Events
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY
480-644-3100
& THINKSPOT @ RED MOUNTAIN
635 N. Power Rd.
☑ Indicates registration required. Visit mesalibrary.org or call to register.
Check our online calendar for the most up-to-date information.
Need a library card? Scan this code to apply online!
Registration required
⚙ THINKspot Program Look for this icon to make and create in THINKspot—a makerspace inside our libraries. THINKspot has the technology and equipment for all your projects. To learn more about available equipment and training visit mesalibrary.org/thinkspot.
Library Card Application mesalibrary.org/getacard
This newsletter is recyclable. For recycling information, visit mesarecycles.org