Writer In Residence
Computers & Technology
Improve your writing with our Writer in Residence. From April through July, author Brooke Bessesen will offer one-on-one consultations and workshops at the Red Mountain Library to support both aspiring and established authors. 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 CONSULTATIONS Wednesdays | 1:00pm – 3:00pm | RM Saturdays | 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM Brooke Bessesen is offering 30-minute one-on-one consultation sessions. To book a time slot, visit: mesalibrary.org/writerinresidence. WORDPLAY: SOLVING THE WRITING PUZZLE Thurs | May 8 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | RM This playful writing workshop will get your creative juices flowing and eliminate any hesitation you may have with editing your work.
CONTEMPORARY PICTURE BOOKS: CHARACTER, STRUCTURE AND VOICE IN UNDER 200 WORDS Thurs | May 22 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | RM Children’s writers should understand the interconnected yet distinct roles that text and illustration play in picture books. In this class we’ll dissect a few picture books to examine their composition and consider how they were crafted.
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. Each week covers a different topic. May 7 & 14 – Microsoft Excel May 21 – Internet Basics May 28 – Email Basics COMPUTER SKILLS TRAINING Thurs | May 15 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm | DR ⚙ Learn to navigate online platforms for technology so that you can improve your computer skills at your own pace and on your own time.
DIGITAL SKILL BUILDER WORKSHOPS ☑ Thursdays | Apr 17 to June 19 10:00am – 12:00pm | RM Compudopt will teach computer skills to adults in this series. Topics include: computer basics, internet use and safety, email basics, and more. A single registration includes all 10 classes in the workshop. At the end of the program, each participant will receive a refurbished laptop computer to keep. Ages 18+. This program was made possible by Google Fiber. Register by April 17. EXPLORING VIRTUAL REALITY ⚙ Thurs | May 8 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN ☑ Mon | May 19 | 6:30pm – 7:30pm | DR Explore the world of VR through different apps and games. This program was made possible by Mesa West Rotary District 5495.
More Writing
GETTING STARTED WRITING A NOVEL: WHAT WORKS AND WHAT DOESN’T Sat | May 3 | 11:00am – 12:00pm | RM This interactive class, presented by awardwinning author Charlotte Whitney, will be focused on finishing a novel, whether you haven’t yet written a single word or only have the last chapter to go. We’ll talk about getting motivated, “pantsing” vs. “plotsing,” finding your creative hours, and rewarding yourself for progress.
Travel
with Chris McCormack
EXPLORE AMERICA’S NATURAL TREASURES: NATIONAL PARKS & NATIONAL FORESTS UNVEILED Tues | May 13 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | DR In this engaging and informative presentation, professional traveler Chris McCormack will share the beauty and adventure of exploring our National Parks. ARMCHAIR TRAVEL TO ICELAND Wed | May 14 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm | RM McCormack will talk about his experiences traveling through Iceland. Learn about useful apps, websites, and the different options you have to explore Iceland. SEE THE WORLD: LESS MONEY, LESS WORRY, & MORE TRAVEL Thurs | May 15 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm | MN Turn your travel dreams into reality! This engaging program is designed to inspire and empower individuals to explore the globe without breaking the bank. Get tips, resources, and insights into affordable travel, focusing on strategies to save money, minimize stress, and maximize experiences.
May 2025
† Prerequisite: Must be comfortable using a mouse and a keyboard.
News & Events
HOTSPOT DIGITAL HELP DESK Wednesdays | 2:00pm – 3:00pm | MEL Thurs | May 1, 15, 22 | 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.
HOLIDAY HOURS Mon | May 26 | CLOSED
INTRODUCTION TO MICROSOFT EXCEL⚙☑ † Tues | May 6 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | DR Learn the foundations of Microsoft Excel, including how to create, edit, and format data in a spreadsheet.
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INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED EXCEL ⚙☑† Wed | May 7 | 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.
Summer Reading is coming! June 1 - August 1 ing
mesalibrary.org/SummerRead
(registration starts May 1st
!)
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.
LOCATIONS
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.
HOW TO READ THIS GUIDE:
DOBSON RANCH LIBRARY (DR) & THINKSPOT @ DOBSON RANCH 2425 S. Dobson Rd.
🎟 Ticketed event
RED MOUNTAIN LIBRARY (RM) & THINKSPOT @ RED MOUNTAIN 635 N. Power Rd.
480-644-3100 mesalibrary.org
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.
☑
Registration required
Need a library card? Scan this code to get one!
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, and most at Mesa Express Library, are held outdoors; please come prepared for the elements.
mesalibrary.org/getacard