Grand Canyon Times

Mesa Public Library is once again spreading love and appreciation to Mesa's homebound and assisted living residents through their Valentine's card drive. For the sixth year in a row, the library is collecting Valentine's cards to be delivered to seniors in the community. This initiative aims to brighten the day of these residents and show them that they are cared for.

Library Director Polly Bonnett expressed the importance of this small gesture, stating, "One small kind gesture can brighten someone's day. Mesa Library Valentine's Day card drive is one way to tell our seniors that we care about them. I want to invite everyone to join us in making or donating cards."

To facilitate the creation of these heartfelt cards, the library will be hosting valentine-making sessions at their full-service locations on specific dates. The sessions will take place from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the following dates:

- Monday, Feb. 5, at the Main Library (64 E. First St.)

- Tuesday, Feb. 6, at the Dobson Ranch Library (2425 S. Dobson Road)

- Wednesday, Feb. 7, at the Red Mountain Library (635 N. Power Road)

Participants in these sessions will have the option to keep the valentines they create or donate them to be distributed to the seniors. However, for those unable to attend the sessions, the library encourages them to make their own cards at home or purchase valentines and bring them to any of the Main, Dobson, and Red Mountain locations between Thursday, Feb. 1, and Thursday, Feb. 8.

Last year, the library successfully distributed 1250 valentines to assisted living facilities and homebound residents. This year, they hope to exceed that number and bring even more joy to the seniors in Mesa.

If you would like to learn more about this initiative or schedule an interview, you can contact Sara Lipich at 480-644-3719 or sara.lipich@mesaaz.gov. Additional information about Mesa Public Library's resources and programs can also be found on their website at www.mesalibrary.org.