March

2026

We have lots going on this month!

Two University Students Talking in the Library

Going On Now at MPL!

Girl with a Pink Shirt Reading a Blue Book in the Fort

At the heart of a public library’s mission is the desire to provide a space where our community can grow, not just through the pages of a book, but through shared experiences that foster resilience and connection. This month, I am thrilled to invite you to an event that celebrates both our local ecosystem and the strength of our neighborhood families. Join us at “Go Out and Get Native” on March 21st at 10:00 AM. This event will take place at our Tiny Forest along Orchid Avenue.

Our very own Teen Advisory Committee (TAC) will be installing custom identity signage throughout our Tiny Forest. These signs will help visitors identify the various species that call this urban oasis home, turning a simple walk into an educational journey.


For those who haven't yet explored the greenery along Orchid Avenue, a Tiny Forest is a specialized, high-density planting method designed to quickly transform small urban spaces into thriving, biodiverse habitats. By mimicking natural plant communities, these forests grow faster and absorb more carbon than traditional landscaping, providing a lush escape.


We often talk about the "literacy" of books, but "nature literacy" is just as vital. Recent studies highlight that regular, shared outdoor activities -- whether it’s hiking, camping, or simply visiting a local park -- significantly strengthen family bonds and improve relationship satisfaction. Beyond just "getting fresh air," these experiences lower stress levels by providing a neutral, calming environment; can improve attention spans; and create lasting memories.

We invite you to come out on March 21st to walk the interior path, learn about our native plants from our talented teens, and take a moment to breathe with your neighbors. Let’s cultivate a greener, more connected community together. See you there!

McAllen Public Library Director Elected 2026 TLA President Elect

We are proud to share some exciting news from McAllen Public Library. Library Director Kate Horan has been elected President-Elect of the Texas Library Association for 2026. She will officially take office at the close of the 2026 TLA Annual Conference in March in Houston.


This is a meaningful honor and a reflection of Kate’s leadership, dedication to public libraries, and commitment to serving communities across Texas. We are incredibly proud of her and look forward to supporting her in this new role.


Please join us in congratulating Kate on this well-deserved achievement!

Caring for Our Community at the Wellness Expo

The Wellness Expo, held February 27 at the Palm View Branch Library, welcomed more than 300 attendees for a day focused on health, wellness, and community connection. Families and individuals explored resources, participated in activities, and connected with local organizations offering information and support for healthier living. Thank you to our community partners whose collaboration helped make this event possible and meaningful for everyone who attended.

Kayla Moreno

Book Shelver | Circulation Department

What moment at the library has stayed with you?

The South Texas Book Festival because of how many people show up and how many activities there are to do!


What has surprised you most about working at the library?

How much I've learned about each department


What book series would you like to live in?

Anything from the Emily Henry universe.

Sonia E. Mata-Hernandez

Library Assistant | Teen Department

What do you enjoy most about working at the library?

Working with Teen Advisory Committee & filming social media videos. making programs for patrons


What program or service at the library do you highly recommend?

All programs! Lots of patrons don't realize the amount of free programs & groups we have.


Who is your favorite author? And why?

Marissa Meyer. Her creativity & uniqueness is astounding.

MPL Kids Program Highlights

Main Library

STEAM Saturday

Saturday,  March14

2:00PM

Barbie's Birthday Party

Wednesday, March 18

2:00PM

Eggcellent Storytime

Saturday, March 28

11:00AM

Lark Branch

Once Upon a Holi

 At Lark

Wednesday, March 4

11:00AM

Peque-Cuentos

Friday, March 13

11:00AM

Pocket 

Monster Party

Tuesday, March 17

1:00PM

Palm View Branch

In-B-Tween Club:

Movie Night at the Library

Wednesday, March 4

6:00PM

Family Book Sharing

Wednesday, March 11

6:00PM-8:00PM

Homeschool Hangout:

Spring Fling

Tuesday, March 24

10:30AM

Click Here For More MPL Kids Programs!

MPL Teens Program Highlights

Main Library

Understand Your Cycle

Wednesday, March 4

6:00PM

TAC Meeting

Saturday, March 14

2:00PM

Unplugged:

Vinyl Record Art

Monday, March 16

3:00PM

Lark Branch

Homeschool Art Zone:

St. Patrick's Day

Wednesday, 11

11:00AM

DIY Self-Care:

Facemasks

Thursday, March 19

2:00PM

Shrink-Itz: 

Pocket Monsters

Tuesday, March 17

2:00PM

Palm View Branch

Level Up! Club

Friiday, March 6

4:30PM

Karaoke with

the Stars

Tuesday, March 17

4:30PM

Crochet

101

Wednesday, March 18

2:00PM

Click Here For More MPL Teens Programs!

MPL Adult Program Highlights

Main Library

Basic 

Computer Class

Tuesday, March 11 & 25

2:30PM

Community Health Educations:

Mosquitos & Diseases

3:00PM

Financial 

Literacy Series

Tuesday, March 24

6:00PM

Lark Branch

Knitting Group

Every Tuesday

2:00PM

Flower 

Arrangement Class

Saturday, March 7

2:00PM

Lark Book Club

Thursday, March 12

6:30PM

Palm View Branch

Tech 101

Friday, March 6 & 20

12:00PM

Health Talk: 

Healthy Habits

Thursday, March 12

12:00PM

Health Talk:

Colon Cancer

Thursday, March 26

12:00PM

Click Here For More MPL Adults Programs!

Explore Our Reference Collection!

AV Record Gray Placeholder

Traditional Festivals: a multicultural encyclopedia

By Christian Roy

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Nolo's deposition handbook

by Paul Bergman

Explore Our Personal Finance Collection!

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Financial freedom: a proven path to all the money you will ever need

By Grant Sabatier


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Investing in your 20s & 30s

by Eric Tyson

Library e-Resource of The Month

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Visit All Our Locations!

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

Lark Branch 

2601 Lark Ave.

McAllen, TX 78504

PH: (956) 681-3100

Hours:

Monday - Thursday

9:00AM - 9:00PM

Friday - Saturday

9:00AM - 6:00PM

Sunday

CLOSED

Palm View Branch 

3401 Jordan Rd. W.

McAllen, TX 78503

PH: (956) 681-3110

Hours:

Monday - Thursday

9:00AM - 9:00PM

Friday - Saturday

9:00AM - 6:00PM

Sunday

CLOSED

Content Editors:

Melissa Kobayashi & Sean Wrinkle

Layout & Design:

Melissa Kobayashi

McAllen Public Library   
4001 N. 23rd Street
McAllen, Texas 78504
Phone: 956.681.3000
E-mail: referencelibrarian@mcallen.net