Mesa is putting the spotlight on reading and literacy awareness with the launch of Mesa Public Librarys "Mesa Reads," program, a year-long initiative designed to challenge community members to read for at least 15 minutes daily.
Mesa Reads aims to be more than just a reading challenge; it's a movement to cultivate a culture of literacy and to emphasize the benefits of reading every day. Participants are encouraged to track their minutes using the Beanstack app or a paper reading log available on the librarys website. Participants who log their minutes in Beanstack will be eligible for monthly prize drawings throughout the year.
The public is invited to attend special events throughout the year, starting with kick-off events on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at all library locations:
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Dobson Ranch Library, 2425 S. Dobson Road. Kick off the year-long Mesa Reads celebration with a family book swap. Bring gently used books to trade for something new. Kids Need to Read will also offer new books for ages prereader through high school, and Mesa Public Library will provide gently used books for adults.
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Red Mountain Library, 635 N. Power Road. Drop in for interactive activities for all ages.
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Mesa Express Library, 7045 E. Monterey Ave. Bring the whole family for an interactive storytime and create your own bookmark.
2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Main Library, 64 E. First St. Celebrate the launch of Mesa Reads with storytimes, a read-a-thon and various activities for all ages.
Literacy programs, author events and other community activities will take place throughout the year, including:
I Love Mesa Day - March 1, 2025
Summer Reading Program: June 1 - August 1, 2025
One Book, One Mesa Community-Wide Read - Fall 2025
Winter Reading Program - 2025
The Mesa Reads initiative will culminate with a celebration recognizing top readers of the year.
"A community that reads, succeeds," said Polly Bonnett, Director of Mesa Public Library. "We believe in the power of reading to transform lives, spark imagination and build connections. This initiative brings together residents, schools and other community partners to highlight what we can achieve when we unite around a common goal. Whether youre reading to a child, picking up your first book in a while or youre a lifelong reader, we hope you'll join us."
Mesa Reads is open to all residents, students and community members. A library card is not required to participate; however, Mesa Public Library cards are free for anyone who lives in Maricopa County for at least 30 consecutive days a year, works, owns property or attends school within the County. New members can visit any branch with a photo ID and register for a card. During the month of January, existing Mesa Public Library cardholders can replace a lost card for free, usually a two-dollar charge, as long as there are no fines or fees on the account.
For more information, please visit mesalibrary.org.