March is officially National Reading Month, and with just under two weeks still left in the month, there is plenty of time to join in. This month-long celebration encourages people of all ages to build stronger literacy habits, discover new stories, and reconnect with the simple joy of reading in Mesa.
Dr. Seuss Started It All
National Reading Month is observed every March in honor of Dr. Seuss, whose birthday falls on March 2. His colorful imagination and playful rhymes introduced millions of kids to the fun side of reading, and that energy carries through the entire month. The whole goal is straightforward: get people of every age reading more and actually enjoying it.
Books Are Basically Free Brain Training
Regular reading does far more than pass the time. The benefits stack up quickly, whether you are a kindergartner sounding out new words or an adult unwinding after a long workday. Here is what consistent reading does for you:
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Builds vocabulary and comprehension through natural exposure to language in context
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Sharpens focus and memory over longer reading sessions
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Reduces stress, and research shows that even six minutes of reading can lower tension noticeably
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Strengthens empathy by placing readers inside perspectives beyond their own
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Gives kids an academic edge since children who read regularly tend to perform better across all school subjects
These benefits are not just for kids. Adults who read consistently show better mental resilience and slower cognitive decline over time.
Mesa’s Library System Is Ready for You
Mesa has one of the most accessible public library systems in the entire Valley, and it keeps growing. The Mesa Public Library system includes five branches across the city:
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Main Library (64 E 1st St) with updated reading spaces, teen gaming areas, and colorful murals throughout
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Red Mountain Library (635 N Power Rd), featuring a generous children’s section and computer access
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Dobson Ranch Library (2425 S Dobson Rd) with a puppet theater and comfortable seating for little ones
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Gateway Library, the newest branch, is now open and serving the east Mesa community
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Mesa Express Library for quick, convenient access
All branches are open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm and Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm.
Still Time to Catch These This Month
Mesa libraries are running a packed lineup through the end of March. A few highlights worth checking out:
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Family Storytime combines stories, songs, and early literacy activities for young children and their caregivers, with weekly sessions still on the calendar
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Mesa Reads is the library’s community reading program, where Mesa residents read and discuss the same book together, a great way to connect with neighbors outside your usual circle
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In-N-Out Cover to Cover Spring Reading Program is currently active and gives participants extra motivation to log reading minutes before the month wraps up
Check the events calendar for the full schedule by branch and age group. Most programs are completely free.
Easy Habits That Actually Stick
You do not need a major overhaul of your routine to read more. Small, consistent actions make the biggest difference:
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Set a 20-minute daily reading goal for every family member, adults included
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Let kids choose their own books at the library so it feels like freedom, not an assignment
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Swap one evening screen session with a book or an audiobook (those absolutely count)
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Try the 3-2-1 method after each chapter: 3 things you learned, 2 interesting points, 1 question to discuss together
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Create a dedicated reading spot at home, even a favorite corner chair gets the job done
There are still days left to make National Reading Month count right here in Mesa. Stop by any Mesa Public Library branch, grab a few books, and sign the family up for a free program before March wraps up.
Sources: mesalibrary.org, nationaltoday.com, rif.org, phoenixwithkids.net
Header Image Source: Nguyen Thu Hoai on Unsplash
