What to Celebrate This Month... | | |
This May, celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month
Since 1949, May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. Done as an effort to reduce stigma, promote understanding, and connect individuals with the support they might need. Despite the efforts, nearly half of Americans experiencing depression do not receive treatment. We tend to prioritize physical health, while ignoring that mental health plays a critical role in our overall well being, with conditions such as depression and anxiety increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
If you or someone you know is struggling, know that seeking help is a sign of strength. Each person’s mental health journey is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Talking with loved ones, seeking professional support, or learning more about mental health are all meaningful steps. Most importantly, remember that you are not alone. There are people who care and want to help, and many others who are navigating similar experiences.
In the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Month, I, Chip, want to share that I have also experienced challenges with mental health, specifically depression. It took me many years to seek help, but I am grateful that I did. It is never too early, or too late, to begin taking care of yourself.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, support is available. You can contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
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Pinal County Historical Museum
Pinal County Historical Museum will often host events, including their upcoming "The Wild West Fiddle Project: Arizona's Hidden Soundscape. Enjoy a fun and informative program with both artists Kate Rose and Armand Ramirez. And while you are there, visit some of the exhibits and learn a bit more about our County's history. And if you enjoy this program, be sure to check out programs at your local library.
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Meet Melissa
What I Do:
As Branch Manager, I lead daily library operations, create a welcoming environment for all visitors, and empower staff to deliver exceptional service and programs.
In My Own Words:
"I love how libraries can bring people and ideas together."
Background:
I have worked in libraries for 15 years, including school, public, and state libraries. My bachelor’s degree is in English Language and Literature from the University of Arizona and I received my MLIS from Valdosta State University.
Fun Fact:
I was born in Florida, grew up in rural Alaska, and now call Arizona home. I love the beach, naps, starting hobbies I never finish, and planning trips I can’t afford.
Favorite Motto or Saying:
“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough” -Mae West
-Melissa Kummen
| | Last month on the 22nd, Pinal County signed this year's library proclamation for library week. The proclamation, which read: | |
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BY THE PINAL COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK
APRIL 19 - APRIL 25, 2026
WHEREAS, libraries spark creativity, fuel imagination, and inspire lifelong learning, offering a space where individuals of all ages can find joy through exploration and discovery; and
WHEREAS, libraries serve as vibrant community hubs, connecting people with knowledge, technology, and resources while fostering civic engagement, critical thinking, and cultural enrichment; and
WHEREAS, libraries provide free and equitable access to books, digital tools, and innovative programming, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background, have the support they need to learn, connect, and thrive; and
WHEREAS, libraries partner with schools, businesses, and organizations to maximize resources, increase efficiency, and expand access to essential services, strengthening the entire community; and
WHEREAS, libraries empower job seekers, entrepreneurs, and lifelong learners by providing access to resources, training, and opportunities that support career growth and economic success; and
WHEREAS, libraries nurture young minds through story times, STEAM programs, and literacy initiatives, fostering curiosity and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime; and
WHEREAS, dedicated librarians and library workers provide welcoming spaces that inspire discovery, collaboration, and creativity for all; and
WHEREAS, libraries, librarians, and library workers across the country are joining together to celebrate National Library Week under the theme “Find Your Joy.”
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, by the Pinal County Board of Supervisors, April 19 through 25, 2026, as “National Library Week” in Pinal County, Arizona, and encourage all citizens to visit their local library, explore its resources, and celebrate all the ways that libraries help our communities find joy.
Proclaimed this 22nd day of April, 2026.
| | Was presented before the board, with various members of Pinal County's libraries and library district present. Afterwards, the proclamation was toured around the county, visiting the libraries of anyone who could not attend. Staff, and even some young patrons, all joined as we celebrated Library Week under the theme "Find Your Joy". | | -Pinal County Board with Various Library Staff | | -Library staff from San Tan, Eloy and Maricopa libraries. | -Library staff from San Manuel Library | -Library staff from Coolidge Library | -Library patrons at Vista Grande Library | -Library staff from Viney Library | | -Library staff from Mammoth Library | -Library staff from Superior Library | -Library staff from Apache Junction Library | | -Library staff from Oracle Library | -Library staff from Kearny Library | -Library staff from Arizona City Library | -Library staff from Vista Grande Library | -Library staff from Viney Library | | |
It's almost time!! Each of our libraries will be kicking off the Summer Reading Program! This is a great time to visit you local library and participate in special programs, do reading challenges and have fun with this years theme: Unearth A Story!, (with some libraries opting to do a special America 250 theme). So enjoy some dinosaur or archeology themed fun by visiting your local library during summer!
Please be aware that each library sets up the start and end of their respective summer reading program, with most happening between end of May to July. To get the exact start and end dates visit your local library.
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On April 18th, 2026 Oracle's Library, along with the Library Board of Directors, volunteers and patrons celebrated a dedication of the Mural with an open house. There, they were able to learn about what the library has to offer, meet local muralists and enjoy some light refreshments.
The original mural was painted in 1993 by various artists and students of the tri-community area. Later in 2022, Jack Loudon restored the Mural.
If you have not yet visited Oracle Public Library, we highly recommend doing so. Not only will you get to see the amazing mural outside the library, but you can also visit the Southwest room, purchase some hidden gems, including an array of comics, and meet all the amazing volunteers who make Oracle Public Library such an amazing place.
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| -Mural outside of Oracle Library painted by Jenny Kilb | -Mural outside of Oracle Library painted by Andy Rush | -Mural outside of Oracle Library painted by Emilee Sandbak | -Mary Harris, library manager | | -Sign for the Oracle Public Lirbary | -Sign outside of Oracle Library | -Plaque at Oracle Public Library | |
Here are just a handful of the more than 300 free library programs taking place this month.
Please visit our online calendar to view a complete list.
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D&D Adventurers League
Saturday, May 23rd | 12 pm - 5 pm
Maricopa Library and Cultural Center
18160 N Maya Angelou Drive
Coolidge, AZ 85
(520) 568-2926
D&D Adventurers League is a drop-in tabletop gaming program using the Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition (2025) rules. Players can attend as often or as few sessions as they choose with minimal impact on the storyline for other players. The Library will provide the space and materials for the Dungeon Master (DM) running the gaming sessions as well as character sheets, pencils, and tokens for attendees. It is strongly recommended that attendees bring their own dice set(s), although some dice sets will be available for use during a session.
While registration is not required, registration is strongly recommended. Drop-in attendees will be seated at a table, if there is sufficient space.
** Please be sure to read the Code of Conduct for DDAL @ the MLCC and accept during registration. **
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Board Game Meetup
Monday, May 18th | 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Arizona City Community Library
13254 Sunland Gin Road
Arizona City, AZ 85123
(520) 866-7740
From Scrabble to Pokémon, bring in your favorites!
The Arizona City Library will be hosting a board game gathering from 12:30- to 3:00pm on the third Monday of each month.
Bring in your favorite board games to play with friends, family, and neighbors in Arizona City!
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Read Yarn CraftersBe Better
Every Tuesday in May | 9:45 am - 11:45 am
San Tan Valley Library
31505 N Schnepf Road
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
(520) 866-8035
If you have an interest in yarn crafts (embroidery, crochet, weaving, or knitting), please join us. All are welcome: young or old, beginners or experts. This is weekly meeting to share ideas and learn some new skills. Bring your own supplies.
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Teen Pokemon Trading Card Club
Thursday, May 14th | 3:45 pm - 4:45 pm
Vista Grande Public Library
1556 N Arizola Rd, Casa Grande, AZ 85122
(520) 421-8652
The Pokémon Card Club is a fun and welcoming space where participants can learn, play, and share their passion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). Each meeting may include casual battles, mini-tournaments, deck-building activities, and opportunities to trade cards safely and fairly. Participants are encouraged to bring their own Pokémon cards and decks, but newcomers are welcome to join and learn the basics of the game.
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Baby's 1st Story Time with Ms. Jasmine
Every Tuesday in May| 10 am - 10:30 am
Viney Jones Library & Community Center
778 N Main St,
Florence, AZ 85132
(520) 868-8311
Baby’s 1st Story Time is a 30-minute parent-and-me class held every Tuesday, designed for babies’ ages 0–3 and their caregivers. This interactive program introduces little ones to the joy of language through classic nursery rhymes, simple stories, music, movement, and sing-alongs. Parents and caregivers will learn fun, easy ways to support early literacy and bonding, all while sharing quality time with their baby in a warm and welcoming library setting.
| | Digital Resources You Should Check Out! | | |
Chilton Library is a must-bookmark resource for anyone looking for automotive help. This powerful tool allows users to search for vehicle manuals and access detailed repair and maintenance information. The site is easy to navigate, offering both keyword search options and clickable categories such as transmission, cooling systems, and exterior components.
In addition to manuals, Chilton Library provides maintenance and specification tables tailored to each vehicle, step-by-step service and repair procedures, and even a labor estimating tool to help you plan your next steps with confidence. Users can also take advantage of vacuum and wiring diagrams for troubleshooting, along with close-up photographs and illustrations that offer clear visual guidance. For those pursuing certification, the resource also includes ASE test preparation quizzes for some of the most popular exams.
Chilton Library also includes helpful features like the ability to print specific pages or listen to content using a built-in reader. Whether you’re an experienced mechanic or a new car owner, this resource makes it easy to find the information you need. Best of all, like all of our digital resources, it is completely free with your library card.
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The Pinal County Library District website provides a catalog of all of our library materials. Patrons can download e-books, e-audiobooks, and access a suite of research databases.
But what if you can't find what you're looking for, or something doesn't seem to work right?
Just like at your local library, you can ask a Librarian! Just click the "Ask A Question" button in the center of the screen on our homepage and fill out the online form. Send us a description of what you need or what went wrong, and staff at Pinal County Library District will get back to you by phone or email (your choice) to help troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Please note that staff are only available during regular office hours, Monday-Friday, 8am to 5pm. Questions submitted after hours or on weekends will be answered the following business day.
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Need help finding your local library?
View all Pinal County Library Locations
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