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Valley Roots Series: Border Contraband with George T. Diaz
2023-11-13 19:00:00 2023-11-13 20:00:00 America/Chicago Valley Roots Series: Border Contraband with George T. Diaz Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium

Monday, November 13
7:00pm - 8:00pm

Add to Calendar 2023-11-13 19:00:00 2023-11-13 20:00:00 America/Chicago Valley Roots Series: Border Contraband with George T. Diaz Smuggling across the U.S.-Mexico border, an often violent and criminal activity, has history stretching back to 1848. Dr. George Diaz will discuss this history based on his research for his book. Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium

Smuggling across the U.S.-Mexico border, an often violent and criminal activity, has history stretching back to 1848. Dr. George Diaz will discuss this history based on his research for his book.

AGE GROUP: | Seniors (50+) | Family (0-99) | Adults (16+) |

EVENT TYPE: | History |

TAGS: | |

Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library
Phone: 956-681-3000
Branch Manager
Kate P. Horan
Hours
Mon, Sep 15 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, Sep 16 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, Sep 17 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, Sep 18 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, Sep 19 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Sep 20 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sun, Sep 21 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

Sensory Storytime
Wed, Sep 17, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Join us for an inclusive storytime full of interactive songs, stories, and sensory exploration.
Tech Help 1-on-1: - Basic Library E-Services Assistance
Wed, Sep 17, 3:00pm - 3:30pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
1-on-1 assistance for patrons needing basic help with technology related to library services.
Registration is now closed
Tech Help 1-on-1: - Basic Library E-Services Assistance
Wed, Sep 17, 3:30pm - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
1-on-1 assistance for patrons needing basic help with technology related to library services.
Registration is now closed
Pop-Up Library at Starbucks - Starbucks-La Plaza Mall
Wed, Sep 17, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Starbucks-La Plaza Mall
Visit our Pop-Up Library at Starbucks and sign up for your library card this month!
Makerspace: Hojalata (Mexican Tin Art)
Wed, Sep 17, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with an exploration of traditional folk art.
Page Makers & Markers - DIY Bookmarks
Wed, Sep 17, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Teen Social Space
Teens, want to show your artistic talent? Create a bookmark showcasing your traditions and personal journey. Submit your art to our Youth Bookmark Contest for the chance to win! 🙌🎨
In-B-Tween Club - Loteria Tournament
Wed, Sep 17, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Celebrate the rich traditions of Hispanic Heritage Month with a fun-filled game of Lotería – a beloved Mexican game full of color, culture, and community.
Consular Essentials - in collaboration with the Consulate of Mexico
Wed, Sep 17, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium
A program offering vital consular services information with Consulate of Mexico to foster a strong and inclusive community, where they have the tools and information they need to succeed.
Toddler Time - with Miss Alyssa
Thu, Sep 18, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Children's Area
An interactive Storytime for caregivers and toddlers to have fun and encourage early literacy through books, songs, finger plays, and body movement.
CHIPS AND SALSA - Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Thu, Sep 18, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People),Palm View - Study Room B (Max 8 People)
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, enjoy a celebration of culture with loteria, musical entertainment, and much more!
Toddler Time - 16 months - 4 years
Thu, Sep 18, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Join Toddler Time for interactive activities with your young ones like singing, storytelling, and rhymes.
ChatGPT 101
Thu, Sep 18, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Board Room
ChatGPT 101, informational presentation
Adult Tiny Canvas - September
Thu, Sep 18, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lark Community Center - Art Room
Have fun painting on tiny canvases!
Diverse Voices Book Club!
Thu, Sep 18, 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!
Adult Sculpting - September
Fri, Sep 19, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Adult Sculpting - Art room
Come have fun with clay at Lark Branch Library's Adult Sculpting Program!
STBF Presents: Local Author Showcase
Sat, Sep 20, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Lobby/Meeting Room AB
Meet talented RGV writers at our Local Author Showcase! Chat with authors, buy books, and support local voices. It’s the perfect chance to discover your next favorite read!
Teen Beginner ASL
Sat, Sep 20, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Lark Branch Library - Lark - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Learn the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) and start creating new friendships in the Deaf community with special guest, Professor Rosemary Landa from UTRGV! No prior experience is needed. 🤟✨
Lark Painting Class - A GUITAR
Sat, Sep 20, 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Lark Community Center - Celebration Hall
We will be painting a "Guitar"
This event is full
PASOS to College
Sat, Sep 20, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Meeting Room AB
Prepare your college applications with professional educators! For students in 10th-12th grade.
Build & Bond
Sat, Sep 20, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Lark Branch Library - Lark - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Rediscover the joy of Lego and unleash your inner child with our Adult Lego Club!
STBF Volunteer Sign-Up Event - Register to Volunteer at the 2025 book festival
Sat, Sep 20, 3:00pm - 5:30pm
Main Library
Do you enjoy connecting with people and being part of community events? Then volunteering at the South Texas Book Festival (STBF) is the perfect opportunity for you!
Sunday Cinema
Sun, Sep 21, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Teen Social Space
Come enjoy snacks and a book-to-screen movie with us! Bring your own blankets and PJs. While supplies last 🎬✨
Baby Storytime - infants 0-16 months
Sun, Sep 21, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants.
Once Upon a Time at Lark
Mon, Sep 22, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Join us at the Lark Branch Library for story time! Children and families are invited to listen to stories and get creative with fun craft activities. All ages are welcome.
Sew & Quilt 101
Mon, Sep 22, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Unleash your creativity and learn a new skill! Rio Grande Valley Quilt Guild will offer free beginner sewing and quilting classes for adults.
This event is full
Lark Virtual Painting Class - A GUITAR
Mon, Sep 22, 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Facebook/YouTube - https: Facebook.com/MPLAdult/YouTube
Our theme will be a "Guitar"
Middle-Earth and Back Again
Mon, Sep 22, 4:00pm - 8:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Embark on an animated journey through a land of wizards, elves, hobbits, and everything in-between with this double feature!  🧙🏻‍♂️🧝🏼
Author Visit - Jonathan Solis
Mon, Sep 22, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Teen Social Space
Local author Jonathan Solis will be sharing his book "Camp Supernatural" in the Teen Department!
Bilingual Storytime - Palm View Branch - La hora de los cuentos con Ms. Maria.
Tue, Sep 23, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Children's Area
Share bilingual stories, songs, rhymes and activities.
Toddler Time
Tue, Sep 23, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Tuesday’s are for toddlers at the Lark Branch Library! Each week, we will be featuring a different activity for toddlers and families.
Baby Storytime - infants 0-16 months
Tue, Sep 23, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants 0-16 months
Lark Knitting Group - LOOM KNTTING & CROCHETING
Tue, Sep 23, 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Join us for loom knitting and crocheting
Eating Smart, Being Active
Tue, Sep 23, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Study Area
Join Health & Human Services for a 5-week nutrition course to learn about healthy eating habits and how to stay active at any age.
MPL Gaming Club
Tue, Sep 23, 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room AB
Calling all adults to join us to play some board games, DnD and more!
Lark Sketching Class - STILL LIFE
Tue, Sep 23, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lark Community Center - Art Room
Spend an evening relaxing and brushing up on your art skills.
Adult Beginner ASL
Tue, Sep 23, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lark Branch Library - Lark - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Learn the fundamentals of American Sign Language (ASL) and begin building new connections with special guest, Professor Elizabeth Olatunbosun from UTRGV! No prior experience required. 🤟✨
Sensory Storytime
Wed, Sep 24, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Join us for an inclusive storytime full of interactive songs, stories, and sensory exploration.
Homeschool Art Zone: Frida Portraits
Wed, Sep 24, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lark Branch Library - Lark - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Calling all homeschoolers! 🌟 Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by creating self-portraits inspired by Frida Kahlo. Explore identity, creativity, and bold colors at the Homeschool Art Zone! 🎨✨
Tech Help 1-on-1: - Basic Library E-Services Assistance
Wed, Sep 24, 3:00pm - 3:30pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
1-on-1 assistance for patrons needing basic help with technology related to library services.
This event is full
Tech Help 1-on-1: - Basic Library E-Services Assistance
Wed, Sep 24, 3:30pm - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
1-on-1 assistance for patrons needing basic help with technology related to library services.
Level Up! Club
Wed, Sep 24, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Palm View Branch Library - Teens Space
Hang out and polish your gaming skills! Play tournaments with our Nintendo Switch or bring your own console and play with your friends.
Colorful Constructors
Wed, Sep 24, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Children and Tweens are invited to channel their imagination and bring to life your very own work of art with Legos! All finished creations will be on display until the following program 🖼️🎨✨
Code & Create - For Children in 4th to 7th grade
Wed, Sep 24, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Ready to code and create? Join the Rogue Rangers, a local robotics team, for awesome hands-on robotics workshops, where you will learn the basics of coding and then get to build your very own robot.
This event is full
Consular Essentials - in collaboration with the Consulate of Mexico
Wed, Sep 24, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium
A program offering vital consular services information with Consulate of Mexico to foster a strong and inclusive community, where they have the tools and information they need to succeed.
Toddler Time - with Miss Alyssa
Thu, Sep 25, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Children's Area
An interactive Storytime for caregivers and toddlers to have fun and encourage early literacy through books, songs, finger plays, and body movement.
DHR Health Talk - Cholesterol Health
Thu, Sep 25, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
DHR Health Wellness Center invites adults to a health discussion on important health issues affecting our community.
Toddler Time - 16 months - 4 years
Thu, Sep 25, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Join Toddler Time for interactive activities with your young ones like singing, storytelling, and rhymes.
Dulce Dash!
Thu, Sep 25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Meeting Room A
Challenge your skills to play the viral matching game with all your favorite Mexican candies and munch on conchas from La Concheria Café.🍬🎊 While supplies last.
Healthy Bites Healthy Moves Nutriton Classes! - with Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service
Fri, Sep 26, 10:00am - 11:30am
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room AB
Learn to eat healthier, stay active, save money & build better habits with The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program-includes food tasting samples while supplies last!
Homeschool Hangout
Fri, Sep 26, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Calling all Homeschoolers! Join us for arts & crafts, games and prizes, and fun with homeschoolers just like you!
Intro to Artificial Intelligence - Session 2
Fri, Sep 26, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Lark Community Center - Green Jay
Come learn all about A.I. in this interactive lecture series.
Chuseok
Sat, Sep 27, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Experience this beautiful cultural festival through a day of storytelling, traditional games, and more with the help of special guest, Professor Mijin Oh-Villarreal from UTRGV! 🌕🐇🏮
Twihard Trivia
Sat, Sep 27, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Lark Branch Library
From iconic movie quotes to character backstories to book-specific details, get ready to sink your teeth into it all!
PASOS to College
Sat, Sep 27, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Meeting Room AB
Prepare your college applications with professional educators! For students in 10th-12th grade.
Craft and Chat
Sat, Sep 27, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Conference Room A
Join us this September for a chance to relax and get crafty through a series of different crafting activities, open to all skill levels!
This event is full
The Independents
Sun, Sep 28, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Activities that will make you go oooh, yay, eeek and more. For ages 6-10 years
For Teens By Teens - Cosmic Canvas
Sun, Sep 28, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Meeting Room AB
Prepare for a cosmic trip into Astronomy and reveal secrets behind stars and their relationship to mythological heroes and beasts, all while making constellation art. 🌑🌌
Painting with Dora's Cozy Art Studio
Mon, Sep 29, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Unleash your creativity through painting with Dora’s Cozy Art Studio!
Family Storytime
Mon, Sep 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Enjoy stories, songs and rhymes together with Miss Sandra!
Homeschool Hangout - Fire Safety
Tue, Sep 30, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View Park
Calling all library explorers! Join the McAllen Fire Department for outdoor fun and learn about fire safety through interactive activities. Open to children of all ages.
Bilingual Storytime - Palm View Branch - La hora de los cuentos con Ms. Maria.
Tue, Sep 30, 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, Sep 30, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants 0-16 months
Lark Knitting Group - LOOM KNITTING & CROCHETING
Tue, Sep 30, 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Join us for loom knitting and crocheting
Eating Smart, Being Active
Tue, Sep 30, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Study Area
Join Health & Human Services for a 5-week nutrition course to learn about healthy eating habits and how to stay active at any age.
Loteria Night
Tue, Sep 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Teen Social Space
¿Tienes buena suerte? Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by testing your luck with some rounds of Lotería and a chance to win some cool prizes!✨
Library Loteria!
Tue, Sep 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lark Branch Library
Join us for a fun twist on the classic Mexican game of chance—Lotería!
Valley Roots Series - The History of Tortillas
Tue, Sep 30, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium
Discover the fascinating history of tortillas with culinary historian Melissa Guerra as she explores the cultural roots and lasting impact of tortillas, one of Latin America's most iconic foods. 
Tech Help 1-on-1 - Basic Library E-Services Assistance
Wed, Oct 01, 3:00pm - 3:30pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
1-on-1 assistance for patrons needing basic help with technology related to library services.
Tech Help 1-on-1 - Basic Library E-Services Assistance
Wed, Oct 01, 3:30pm - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
1-on-1 assistance for patrons needing basic help with technology related to library services.
Valley Roots - Psychology of Mariachi
Thu, Oct 02, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Auditorium
The Psychology of Mariachi with Fabian Lopez, a thought-provoking look at how mariachi music stirs memory, emotion, and cultural connection.
Healthy Bites Healthy Moves Nutriton Classes! - with Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service
Fri, Oct 03, 10:00am - 11:30am
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Meeting Room AB
Learn to eat healthier, stay active, save money & build better habits with The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program-includes food tasting samples while supplies last!
Baby Storytime - infants 0-16 months
Sun, Oct 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants.
Sew & Quilt 101
Mon, Oct 06, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Unleash your creativity and learn a new skill! Rio Grande Valley Quilt Guild will offer free beginner sewing and quilting classes for adults.
This event is full
Baby Storytime - infants 0-16 months
Tue, Oct 07, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants.
Eating Smart, Being Active
Tue, Oct 07, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Study Area
Join Health & Human Services for a 5-week nutrition course to learn about healthy eating habits and how to stay active at any age.
Unfolded Poetry Workshops
Tue, Oct 07, 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.
Tech Help 1-on-1 - Basic Library E-Services Assistance
Wed, Oct 08, 3:00pm - 3:30pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
1-on-1 assistance for patrons needing basic help with technology related to library services.
Tech Help 1-on-1 - Basic Library E-Services Assistance
Wed, Oct 08, 3:30pm - 4:00pm
Main Library - Study Rooms - Study Room 1 (max 4 people)
1-on-1 assistance for patrons needing basic help with technology related to library services.
Code & Create - For Children in 4th to 7th grade
Wed, Oct 08, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Palm View - Study Room A (Max 12 People)
Ready to code and create? Join the Rogue Rangers, a local robotics team, for awesome hands-on robotics workshops, where you will learn the basics of coding and then get to build your very own robot.
This event is full
Cancelled
Creative Work Sessions
Wed, Oct 08, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library
Join us for a productive hour of collaborative work sessions to foster creativity and share ideas with other writers featuring Poet Laureate Victoria Lopez.
MPL Anime / Manga Club
Thu, Oct 09, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Conference Room A,Conference Room B
MPL is hosting a monthly event that brings adults together to meet, watch, and discuss popular manga and anime titles! See you there!
Little Cocina - celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Sat, Oct 11, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Families and their children are invited to make and eat simple comidas in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. While supplies last.
Sunday Book Club
Sun, Oct 12, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Main Library - Board Room
Join us for our Sunday Book Club where we dive into great stories, share insights, and enjoy thoughtful conversations. Perfect for book lovers looking to connect!
This event is full
Baby Storytime - infants 0-16 months
Sun, Oct 12, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants.
Crochet Club
Mon, Oct 13, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Palm View Branch Library - Reference Department
Calling all crafters! Join our monthly Crochet Club for fun cozy projects for adults of all skill levels.
Baby Storytime - infants 0-16 months
Tue, Oct 14, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Center at McAllen Public Library - Children's Program Room
Songs, stories, rhymes, social play for infants.
Diverse Voices Book Club!
Thu, Oct 16, 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!
See all events