Library News

Jane Austen (December 16, 1775 – July 18, 1817) was an English novelist known primarily for her six novels, Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813), Mansfield Park (1814), Emma (1816), Northanger Abbey (1818, posthumous), and Persuasion (1818, posthumous). This literary icon continues to entertain, delight, and inspire generations of readers.

Celebrate with works by and about the author, plus library events: 

The Lost Art of Handwritten Letters
Mon | Dec 1 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | Dobson Ranch Library
In celebration of Austen’s birthday, and inspired by the role of handwritten correspondence in her novels, we will look at how writing letters can benefit us, create meaningful connection with others, and leave a lasting memory. Working with prompts for what to write, we’ll use lovely materials to create our own handwritten letters worthy of Jane Austen herself.

Jane Austen Inspired Bookmarks
Mon | Dec 8 | 10:00am – 12:00pm | Red Mountain Library
Learn how to use the Silhouette Cameo Pro 4 cutting machine to create Jane Austen inspired bookmarks out of cardstock paper. Registration required.

Jane Austen Book Club: Emma
Wed | Dec 10 | 5:00pm – 6:00pm | Red Mountain Library
Come discuss Emma by Jane Austen.

Jane Austen's House Virtual Tour
Thurs | Dec 11 | 3:30pm – 4:30pm | Red Mountain Library
Celebrate Austen’s birthday by experiencing a virtual tour of the house she once lived in.

Art Journaling
Fri | Dec 12 | 11:00am – 12:30pm | Red Mountain Library
Starting an art journal can be a low stress way to integrate creativity into your daily life. To celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday, we will use vintage techniques and a prompt inspired Austen’s works. Registration required.

Happy Birthday, Jane Austen! 
Tues | Dec 16 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm | Mesa Express Library
Step back into the Regency era as we celebrate with tea, scones, and lively conversation about Austen’s timeless novels and enduring legacy. For all ages.

Paper Garden Scene
Tues | Dec 16 | 5:00pm – 6:00pm | Gateway Library
Step into the world of Pride and Prejudice as we honor Austen’s birthday with a hands-on paper crafting experience. Using the Silhouette Cameo and your artistic flair, you’ll design a whimsical garden scene
inspired by Austen’s beloved novel. Registration required.

Jane Austen Regency 250th Birthday Celebration
Tues | Dec 16 | 5:30pm – 7:30pm | Main Library
We will be celebrating Austen’s birthday with a tea party, the showing of Pride and Prejudice (rated PG) and making pressed flower cards. Don’t forget to wear your Regency finest.

Jane Austen Film Club: Clueless
Wed | Dec 17 | 5:00pm – 6:45pm | Red Mountain Library
We will be screening Clueless (1995, rated PG-13), which is based on Austen’s novel Emma.