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September2025 |
We have lots going on this month! | |
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I am so excited to bring this traveling exhibit to the community: Texas America250.
Highlighting historically significant Texas Treasures from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission’s collections, Texas America250 will be loaned to McAllen Public Library and other Texas libraries and organizations starting in the Fall and continuing throughout the semiquincentennial year of 2026. |
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The Texas America250 exhibit will highlight historically significant Texas Treasures from the State Archives, encouraging all Americans to explore the story of the Lone Star State over the past 250 years. From Spanish missions to the space race, the landscape, culture, economy and people of Texas have played essential roles in the development of the United States.
This is a great way for Texans of all ages to learn more about the state’s role in U.S. history and explore some of our most treasured documents, photographs and artifacts. |
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A Well Deserved Honor for Our Library Director, Kate Horan
| By Priscilla C. Suarez, CFEE
We are beyond excited to share that last month, our very own Kate Horan, Library Director, was congratulated in the United States House of Representatives by Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz after receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Texas Library Association. This award is the highest honor a library professional can receive in Texas, and it makes us so proud to see Kate recognized for the work she has done for McAllen and for libraries across the Rio Grande Valley.
Kate has been part of McAllen Public Library for nearly two decades, and in that time she has helped shape the Library into what it is today. She has guided MPL through growth, change, and innovation, always keeping the focus on the people we serve. From launching the South Texas Book Festival to expanding programs for families, students, and job seekers, her leadership has made the Library a place where everyone can feel welcome and supported. Along the way, it has become a stage for cultural and unique events that feel true to el Valle, from luchadores at our Día de los Niños celebration to spotlighting local authors, artists, and organizations. Together with the Library Advisory Board, she has built strong ties with local partners and sponsors, ensuring the Library continues to grow alongside the community. What sets Kate apart is her commitment to making sure MPL reflects the people it serves and remains a place of opportunity and connection.
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On behalf of all MPL staff, we are so proud to see her receive this recognition. Her leadership has guided us, challenged us, and reminded us of why the work we do matters.
Speaking personally, I have worked under Kate’s leadership for over eighteen years. I have had the privilege of learning from her example, being mentored through challenges, and encouraged when I needed it most. Kate has not only shaped the direction of this Library, she has shaped me as a professional and as a person. She has been both a mentor and a friend, and I am grateful for the chance to keep learning from her.
Congratulations, Kate! You deserve every bit of this recognition. | |
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What do you enjoy most about being on the Library Advisory Board?
The collaborative nature of advisory boards fosters deep, rewarding relationships built on trust and shared purpose. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my experience can help steer an organization toward meaningful impact.
Do you have any hidden talents? Traveling with my family, movie night with my family, and watching my favorite sports teams.
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What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
It’s simple, “treat others like you want to be treated”, Whether it’s a colleague, stranger, or loved one, offer the same dignity you’d expect.
Who has made a positive difference in your life recently?
My kids, I recently had twins and suddenly, petty worries shrink. You start focusing on health, love, and time well spent. |
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Congratulations
Dr. Joseph Ryan! | We are proud to recognize Dr. Joseph Ryan, our Library Advisory Board President, whose article was recently featured on the front cover of Orthodontic Practice magazine. This achievement reflects his leadership and professional excellence. |
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What is your favorite book genre? And why?
I love reading romance books and contemporary fiction. The more drama, the better!
Who has made a positive difference in your life recently?
Our library assistant and my story time sidekick, Ivonne!
What are 3 things that make you happy?
Taylor Swift, good coffee, and the stars |
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| MPL Kids Program Highlights |
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Main Library
| Sensory Storytime Every Wednesday
11:00AM | |
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My First Book Club Monday, Sept. 15
5:00PM | | Hispanic History Scavenger Hunt
Sept. 22 - Sept. 27 All Day |
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Lark Branch |
Mini-Book Craft Wednesday, Aug. 6 11:00AM |
| Cre-Ate Your Plate Monday, Aug. 11
11:00AM | | Toddler
Time Tuesday, August 12
11:00AM |
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Palm View Branch
| La hora de los cuentos Bilingual Storytime Every Tuesday
11:00AM | | Toddler Time
Every Thursday 11:00AM | |
In-B-Tween: 3D Print & Paint Wednesday, Aug. 6
6:00PM | |
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MPL Teens Program Highlights
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Main Library
| Journaling Club: Oh Scrap!
Thursday, Sept. 22
6:00PM | | PASOS to College
Saturdays, Sept. 20 & 27 6:00PM | |
Author Visit: Jonathan Solis
Monday, Sept. 22
6:00PM |
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Lark Branch |
Totally Tuesday: Backpack Charms
Tuesday, Aug. 5
11:00AM | | Teen Anime Club
Saturday, Aug. 16 1:00PM | |
Homeschool
Art Zone Wednesday, Aug. 27
11:00AM |
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Palm View Branch
| FSA ID Help Saturday, Aug. 9 11:00AM - 1:00PM |
| Gamers Unplugged Tuesday, Aug. 12
4:30PM | | Makerspace:
DIY Backpack Charms Tuesday, Aug. 19 4:30PM | |
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MPL Adult Program Highlights
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Main Library
| Tech Help
1-on-1 Every Wednesday
3:00PM | |
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Consular Essentials
Wednesdays,
Sept. 10 - 24 6:00PM | |
Valley Roots Series: The History of Tortillas Tuesday, Sept. 30
7:00PM |
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Lark Branch |
Adult Magic
The Gathering Saturday, Aug. 9
1:30PM | | Lark
Book Club Thursday, Aug. 14 6:30PM | |
Intro to Artificial Intelligence Thursday, Aug. 28 2:00PM |
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Palm View Branch
| DHR Health Talk Thursday, Aug. 14 12:00PM |
| Vitalant Presentation Thursday, Aug. 21
2:00PM | | Painting with
Ms. Dominique Monday, Aug. 25 12:00PM |
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Explore Our Reference Collection!
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| Notable Latino Writers | from the editors of Salem Press |
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| The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Latino literature | edited by Nicolas Kanellos |
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Library e-Resource of The Month
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| | Follow Us For All Our Events & Updates! |
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| Visit All Our Locations! |
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McAllen Public Library
4001 N. 23rd St. McAllen, TX 78504 PH: (956) 681-3000 |
Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00AM - 9:00PM
Friday - Saturday 9:00AM - 6:00PM Sunday
1:00PM - 9:00PM |
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Lark Branch
2601 Lark Ave. McAllen, TX 78504 PH: (956) 681-3100 |
Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:00AM - 9:00PM
Friday - Saturday 10:00AM - 5:00PM Sunday
1:00PM - 9:00PM |
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Palm View Branch
3401 Jordan Rd. W. McAllen, TX 78503 PH: (956) 681-3110 |
Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:00AM - 9:00PM
Friday - Saturday 10:00AM - 5:00PM Sunday
1:00PM - 9:00PM |
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Content Editors:
Melissa Kobayashi & Sean Wrinkle |
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Layout & Design:
Melissa Kobayashi |
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