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Image for event: Free For All: The Public Library

Free For All: The Public Library

IndieLens Pop-Up Series
2025-03-30 14:00:00 2025-03-30 16:00:00 America/Chicago Free For All: The Public Library Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium

Sunday, March 30
2:00pm - 4:00pm

Add to Calendar 2025-03-30 14:00:00 2025-03-30 16:00:00 America/Chicago Free For All: The Public Library Join us for a screening of Free for All: The Public Library, a documentary about the pioneers and librarians who made public libraries a vital civic institution, despite closures and book bans. Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium

Join us for a screening of Free for All: The Public Library, a documentary about the pioneers and librarians who made public libraries a vital civic institution, despite closures and book bans.

Our feature film tells the story of the quiet revolutionaries who made a simple idea happen. From the pioneering women behind the “Free Library Movement" to today's librarians who service the public despite working in a contentious age of closures and book bans, meet those who created a civic institution where everything is free and the doors are open to all.

AGE GROUP: | Adults (18+) |

EVENT TYPE: | Movies | History | Film | Community Event | Arts & Cultural |

TAGS: | |

Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library
Phone: 956-681-3000
Branch Manager
Kate P. Horan
Hours
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Mon, May 11 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, May 12 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, May 13 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, May 14 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, May 15 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, May 16 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sun, May 17 1:00PM to 9:00PM
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About the library

The Meeting Center is comprised of indoor and outdoor spaces throughout McAllen Public Library (4001 N. 23rd St., McAllen, TX 78504) available for rental. It is a place where people and ideas meet and connect. As such, the Meeting Center is an ideal setting for your professional or social event.

Upcoming events

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Toddler Time - At Palm View Branch
Thu, May 14, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Children's Area
A fun and interactive program designed for children 2yrs-5yrs and their grown ups. Enjoy stories and activities together.
HEALTH TALK @ PALM VIEW - Foodborne Illness Prevention
Thu, May 14, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Join us for a health discussion on important health issues affecting our community.
Registration is now closed
Family Place Week - Fire Dept: Child Safety
Thu, May 14, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Join us for a week of community partners, parent resources, and learning through play!
Family Storytime
Thu, May 14, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Bring the whole family for stories, songs, and fun! Family Storytime builds early literacy while creating special moments together.
Lark Book Club - GONE BEFORE GOODBYE BY REESE WITHERSPOON
Thu, May 14, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Lark Branch Library
“Full of jaw-dropping twists and turns.”―Lisa Jewell, New York Times bestselling author
Registration is now closed
MPL Anime / Manga Club
Thu, May 14, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium
MPL is hosting a monthly event that brings adults together to meet other fans and discuss popular manga and anime titles! See you there!
Family Place Week - MPL Kids: Early Literacy
Fri, May 15, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Join us for a week of community partners, parent resources, and learning through play!
Tummy Time
Fri, May 15, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Join us for Tummy Time! Babies and caregivers enjoy songs, play, and gentle movement that support early motor skills.
Petals & Pastels: Adult Coloring Program
Fri, May 15, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Conference Room B
Support your well-being during Mental Health Awareness Month with a calming and creative adult coloring hour.
Community Health Education Series - with Hidalgo County Health Department
Sat, May 16, 10:00am - 11:00am
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room AB
Join us and the Hidalgo County Health Department for a four-part series where experts share vital public health insights and practical strategies to support community wellness.
Financial Literacy Workshops - Credit and Debt. Management
Sat, May 16, All day
Lark Branch Library
Join United Way and Frost Bank as they partner and present strategies to learn more on how improve your credit and manage debt.
Origami Creations
Sat, May 16, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Teen Department
Enjoy a crafty afternoon with friends and let your creativity unfold with easy to do origami. Supplies will be provided.
Traditional Guatemalan Barriletes Workshop - Presented by Consulado De Guatemala.
Sun, May 17, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Barriletes is celebrated every November 1st as part of All Saints Day- as part of a ritual that blends arts, spirtuality and collective memory.
This event is full
World Cultures Festival
Sun, May 17, 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room AB
World Cultures Festival is a community celebration designed for participants of all ages.
Assistance for Enrollment in Health Insurance with MHP Salud - By appointment only. Please call (956) 532-1736.
Mon, May 18, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 5 (max 8 people)
Individual in-person appointments with an MHP Salud Navigator for enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance. Appointments are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, between 9:30AM and 3:30PM.
Medicaid and Chip Application Assistance - with Community Action Corporation of South Texas
Mon, May 18, 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
Need help with Medicaid or CHIP? Community Action Corp. of South Texas offers walk-in or appointment assistance with applications and eligibility. Call 956-291-0789 for details.
Family Storytime
Mon, May 18, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Enjoy stories, songs and rhymes together with Ms. Sandra!
Start Here: Mouse and Keyboard
Tue, May 19, 10:00am - 11:00am
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Computer Lab Classroom
New to computers? This beginner-friendly class teaches basic mouse and keyboard skills in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
Homeschool Hangout - Field Day
Tue, May 19, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View Park
Calling all Library Explorers! Join us for a morning filled with outdoor play and friendly competition.
Toddler Time: Little Kids, Big Feelings
Tue, May 19, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Tuesdays are for toddlers! Enjoy an activity at the Lark Branch Library that supports emotional growth for little kids and their families.
Bilingual Storytime - Palm View Branch - La hora de los cuentos con Ms. Maria.
Tue, May 19, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Children's Area
Share bilingual stories, songs, rhymes and activities.
Baby Storytime - infants 0-16 months
Tue, May 19, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants.
Lark Knitting Group - LOOM KNITTING & CROCHETING
Tue, May 19, 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Join us for loom knitting and crocheting
Ramen & Trivia
Tue, May 19, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Slurp, snack, and show off your smarts! Enjoy delicious ramen noodles while testing your knowledge of Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures, history, and pop culture references.
MPL Gaming Club
Tue, May 19, 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Conference Room A,Conference Room B
Calling all Gamers!
Lark Sketching Class - STILL LIFE
Tue, May 19, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Spend an evening relaxing and brushing up on your art skills.
Assistance for Enrollment in Health Insurance with MHP Salud - By appointment only. Please call (956) 532-1736.
Wed, May 20, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 5 (max 8 people)
Individual in-person appointments with an MHP Salud Navigator for enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance. Appointments are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, between 9:30AM and 3:30PM.
Homeschool Art Zone!
Wed, May 20, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lark Branch Library - Lark - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Tweens explore painting, sculpture, and more in fun, hands-on projects that spark creativity and new skills! 🎨✨
Civics Simplified - Understanding Government
Wed, May 20, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium
UTRGV Political Sciences Department presents a 4-part series exploring how government works, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and ways individuals can participate in their communities.
Toddler Time - At Palm View Branch
Thu, May 21, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Children's Area
A fun and interactive program designed for children 2yrs-5yrs and their grown ups. Enjoy stories and activities together.
Painting with Ms. Danice
Thu, May 21, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Whether you are a beginner or seasoned artist, get ready to explore your artistic side! Enjoy a fun afternoon of art and socializing.
This event is full
Toddler Time - 18 months-4 years
Thu, May 21, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play, and activities.
Adult Tiny Canvas
Thu, May 21, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Have fun painting on tiny canvases! 🫟🖼️
Movie Clubhouse
Thu, May 21, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lark Branch Library
A monthly library hangout featuring fun, family-friendly films for kids and teens—come enjoy stories, snacks, and community!
Diverse Voices Book Club!
Thu, May 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Conference Room A
Join MPL's Diverse Voices Book Club! Discover great reads and share meaningful conversations with friendly faces in a welcoming space!
Petals & Pastels: Adult Coloring Program
Fri, May 22, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Conference Room B
Support your well-being during Mental Health Awareness Month with a calming and creative adult coloring hour.
Comic Drops: Water to the Rescue! - with McAllen Public Utility
Fri, May 22, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Comic Drops: Water to the Rescue! Create your own water drop hero with MPU and save the day in this fun, creative teen activity!
Aqua-Tots Presents: Water Safety
Sat, May 23, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Join us for this live presentation featuring Aqua-Tots Swim School.
Craft and Chat
Sat, May 23, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Conference Room B
Join us this May for a chance to relax and get crafty through a series of different crafting activities, open to all skill levels!
This event is full
Baby Storytime - infants 0-16 months
Sun, May 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants.
Bilingual Storytime - Palm View Branch - La hora de los cuentos con Ms. Maria.
Tue, May 26, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Children's Area
Share bilingual stories, songs, rhymes and activities.
Lark Knitting Group - LOOM KNITTING & CROCHETING
Tue, May 26, 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Join us for loom knitting and crocheting.
Unfolded Poetry Workshops
Tue, May 26, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Board Room
Join us for a series of poetry workshop designed to nurture your poetic spirit presented by Poet Laureate Victoria Lopez and our local community poets.
Assistance for Enrollment in Health Insurance with MHP Salud - By appointment only. Please call (956) 532-1736.
Wed, May 27, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 5 (max 8 people)
Individual in-person appointments with an MHP Salud Navigator for enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance. Appointments are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, between 9:30AM and 3:30PM.
BASIC COMPUTER CLASS - CLASE DE COMPUTACION BASICA
Wed, May 27, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Computer Lab Classroom
BASIC COMPUTER CLASS - Come join us and learn basic computer skills in this classroom setting.
This event is full
PV Book Club - The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi
Wed, May 27, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Join the Palm View Book Club to discuss the book of the month with light refreshments and engaging conversation.
Adult Coloring
Wed, May 27, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Come and join other adults who like to color.
Toddler Time - At Palm View Branch
Thu, May 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Children's Area
A fun and interactive program designed for children 2yrs-5yrs and their grown ups. Enjoy stories and activities together.
Level Up! Club
Thu, May 28, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Palm View Branch - Teens Space
Hang out and polish your gaming skills! Play tournaments with our Nintendo Switch or bring your own console and play with friends.
Chinese Calligraphy
Thu, May 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Discover the art of Chinese calligraphy while learning to write the symbol for “fortune” with guided strokes.
Scent-sational Creations - DIY Selfcare
Thu, May 28, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lark Branch Library - Lark - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Craft your signature scent! Blend a custom perfume balm to boost your mood and leave your skin feeling softer. Stay calm, cool, and iconic. 🌿✨
Valley Roots Series - Black Soldiers of South Texas
Thu, May 28, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium
Historian Charles Waite explores the service and legacy of Black soldiers in South Texas, from the Civil War to the era of the Buffalo Soldiers.
Painting Class
Fri, May 29, 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Lark Community Center - Exercise Room
Socialize and follow along as you paint your own summer-themed art piece! Our painting program allows attendees of any skill level to participate. Registration is required and class size limited.
Petals & Pastels: Adult Coloring Program
Fri, May 29, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Conference Room B
Support your well-being during Mental Health Awareness Month with a calming and creative adult coloring hour.
Financial Literacy Workshops - Self Employment Records
Sat, May 30, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Lark Community Center - Green Jay
Everything you need to know to file your self-employment taxes correctly.
Decked Out! - TCG Fun for All
Sat, May 30, 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Ready your decks to summon creatures, cast spells, and strategize to win! Join us for card games and casual fun fit for all skill levels. 🎲🃏
Mini Masterpieces
Sun, May 31, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room A
Paint, color, mix! Explore mixed media art like that of Pacita Abad this AANHPI Heritage Month.
Assistance for Enrollment in Health Insurance with MHP Salud - By appointment only. Please call (956) 532-1736.
Mon, Jun 01, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 5 (max 8 people)
Individual in-person appointments with an MHP Salud Navigator for enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance. Appointments are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, between 9:30AM and 3:30PM.
Medicaid and Chip Application Assistance - with Community Action Corporation of South Texas
Mon, Jun 01, 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
Need help with Medicaid or CHIP? Community Action Corp. of South Texas offers walk-in or appointment assistance with applications and eligibility. Call 956-291-0789 for details.
Start Here: Mouse And Keyboard
Tue, Jun 02, 10:00am - 11:00am
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Computer Lab Classroom
New to computers? This beginner-friendly class teaches basic mouse and keyboard skills in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
MPL Gaming Club
Tue, Jun 02, 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room AB
Calling all Gamers!
Assistance for Enrollment in Health Insurance with MHP Salud - By appointment only. Please call (956) 532-1736.
Wed, Jun 03, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 5 (max 8 people)
Individual in-person appointments with an MHP Salud Navigator for enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance. Appointments are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, between 9:30AM and 3:30PM.
Sounds of Summer
Wed, Jun 03, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Dive into rhythm and song this summer with musical activities for all ages!
Fit & Lit - Audiobook Walking Club
Wed, Jun 03, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library
Walk the Dewey Trail while listening to an audiobook! Bring your headphones, enjoy your audiobook, and walk with fellow book lovers.
Summer Kick-Off Ren Faire - Unearth a Story
Sat, Jun 06, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Main Branch
Lords and ladies of all ages, register to enter our costume contest at our Summer Kick-Off Ren Faire! All ages can enjoy a play by The Player’s Studio, crafts, games and snacks.
Assistance for Enrollment in Health Insurance with MHP Salud - By appointment only. Please call (956) 532-1736.
Mon, Jun 08, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 5 (max 8 people)
Individual in-person appointments with an MHP Salud Navigator for enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance. Appointments are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, between 9:30AM and 3:30PM.
Medicaid and Chip Application Assistance - with Community Action Corporation of South Texas
Mon, Jun 08, 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
Need help with Medicaid or CHIP? Community Action Corp. of South Texas offers walk-in or appointment assistance with applications and eligibility. Call 956-291-0789 for details.
Unfolded Poetry Workshops
Tue, Jun 09, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room AB
Join us for a series of poetry workshop designed to nurture your poetic spirit presented by Poet Laureate Victoria Lopez and our local community poets.
Assistance for Enrollment in Health Insurance with MHP Salud - By appointment only. Please call (956) 532-1736.
Wed, Jun 10, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 5 (max 8 people)
Individual in-person appointments with an MHP Salud Navigator for enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance. Appointments are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, between 9:30AM and 3:30PM.
Sounds of Summer
Wed, Jun 10, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Dive into rhythm and song this summer with musical activities for all ages!
BASIC COMPUTER CLASS - CLASE DE COMPUTACION BASICA
Wed, Jun 10, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Computer Lab Classroom
BASIC COMPUTER CLASS - Come join us and learn basic computer skills in this classroom setting.
Who's Your Bias? - Oshikatsu & K-Pop Fun
Wed, Jun 10, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Main Library - Meeting Room AB
Who’s your bias? Enjoy K-Pop–themed crafts, photo card swaps, and listening parties in this monthly fan celebration! Seating is limited. Registration is required.
MPL Anime / Manga Club
Thu, Jun 11, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium
MPL is hosting a monthly event that brings adults together to meet other fans and discuss popular manga and anime titles! See you there!
Diabetes 101: - Prevention & Care with ASAS Health
Fri, Jun 12, 10:00am - 11:00am
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room A
Join ASAS Health for an engaging adult presentation on diabetes prevention, management, and healthy living with practical tips for everyday life now!
McAllen Public Library : Job Fair
Sat, Jun 13, 10:00am - 2:00pm
Main Library - Lobby
McAllen Public Library in partnership with Workforce Solutions presents the Job Fair.
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