September is here! As Mexico celebrates Independence Month, students head back to school, and we look forward to what we hope will be the last of Mérida’s rainy afternoons, MEL is beginning a new season of activities.

This month, we are delighted to welcome back some of our favorite programs, introduce exciting new ones, and offer even more opportunities to learn, connect, and enjoy our community.

And speaking of rainy afternoons… doesn’t this weather make you want to curl up with a good book? Stop by the library and find your next great read.  

Please note that MEL will be closed on Wednesday, September 16, in observance of Mexican Independence Day.

If you would like to learn more about Mexico’s history, culture, or independence—or discover works by Mexican authors—be sure to visit the Judd Dole Room, home to MEL’s Latin American fiction and nonfiction collections. If you are looking for a particular title, you can also search our online catalog before your visit.

Two Favorite Instructors Return to MEL This September

September brings two wonderful opportunities to learn from acclaimed local artists Raúl Gasque and Julie Marie Hoey. Their courses begin very soon, so now is the perfect time to reserve your place!

What can art reveal about Latin America’s history, identity, and political struggles?

Join artist and educator Raúl Gasque for an engaging eight-session journey through Latin American modern art. Through carefully selected artworks and artists, participants will explore movements and ideas including Modernism, the Avant-Garde, Indigenismo, Muralism, Conceptual Art, Coloniality, Decoloniality, memory, and political art.

More than an art history course, this is an opportunity to better understand Latin America through the images, ideas, and debates that have shaped the region.

The course begins soon—register now and join us for the complete eight-session experience!

Mondays starting September 7th -  9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m

Acrylic Painting Classes With Julie Marie Hoey

Ready to make time for your creativity?

Julie Marie Hoey returns to MEL with a six-session acrylic painting workshop designed to help participants explore techniques, develop their skills, and enjoy the creative process in a welcoming environment.

Whether you would like to return to painting or try something new, this three-week workshop offers the structure, guidance, and inspiration you need to bring your ideas to life.

Classes begin September 1, so don’t wait to reserve your place!

Tuesdays and Thursdays - 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Six 90-minute classes over three weeks
Participants must bring their own materials.

BEHIND EVERY BEAUTIFUL DOOR ……Some doors are simply entrances. Others invite you into a story!

As another Mérida summer gently gives way to autumn, the Committee for the MEL WINE EVENINGS has been quietly pursuing a delightful mission – discovering an extraordinary collection of private homes that will set the stage for our 2026-2027 Wine Evenings season.  Behind colorful facades, graceful archways, flowering courtyards, and beautifully restored colonial residences, we’ve found hosts whose generosity is matched only by the beauty of the homes they have agreed to share.

Each home has been thoughtfully selected for its unique character and charm.  Some will captivate with timeless elegance, others with contemporary flair, hidden gardens, remarkable collections, or architectural details that tell the story of Merida’s rich heritage.  Together, they promise a season of remarkable settings where every evening becomes an experience to remember.

Of course, the homes are only the beginning.  The true magic of the MEL WINE EVENINGS has always been found in the people gathered within them!  The conversations that linger long after the last pour, the laughter shared among friends, the welcoming spirit extended to newcomers, and the friendships that continue to flourish year after year.  Add wines carefully selected by some of Merida’s most experienced sommeliers, delicious and creative hors d’oeuvres prepared by some of Merida’s talented chefs, and the hospitality of our hosts and the result is something that has become one of MEL’S most cherished traditions.

On Thursday, 22 October 2026, we will open the first beautiful door and begin another season of discovery, friendship, and celebration.

Tickets for the October Wine Evening go on sale in the MEL Shop to MEL Members at 9:00 AM on Thursday October 8.  These members-only tickets require an up-to-date Family or Individual library membership.  Please send us an email to check your membership status or to get your membership number.  Remaining tickets go on sale Monday October 12, online or at the library.

Wine Lovers may purchase season tickets for all six events beginning at 9:00 AM on Thursday October 1.  Restrictions apply; please visit our website for details.

EXCEPTIONAL WINES & HORS D’OEUVRES - EXTRAORDINARY HOMES - UNFORGETTABLE EVENINGS

Conversaciones con Amigos returns on Monday, September 7—and we are looking for native English-speaking hosts to join us!

If you would like to help local participants practice and improve their English in a friendly, social environment centered on conversation and cultural exchange, we invite you to spend your Monday evenings with us.

This is a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, share your language and culture, and support members of our community as they build confidence speaking English.

Interested in becoming a host? Contact MEL or stop by the library to learn more.

Become a Speaking Lab Volunteer! Connect with our community. Help students build confidence.

Are you an international resident living in Yucatán, temporarily or permanently? Do you speak English naturally and enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds?

We invite you to become part of the Speaking Lab, a new initiative of the ADIM English Community Program at Mérida English Library, designed to give students the opportunity to practice English through real conversations with international volunteers.

Volunteers from all countries and backgrounds are welcome—all English accents are celebrated! You don't need to be a professional teacher. The instructor will lead the activities while volunteers support students with conversation, pronunciation, vocabulary, cultural examples, encouragement and enthusiasm.

 What does volunteering involve?

Tuesdays · 6:30–7:30 PM - Join our Speaking Lab, where volunteers have short, guided conversations with students in small groups of 3–4.

Thursdays · 4:00–6:20 PM - Volunteers can also join selected classroom activities with our English Junior Club and English Community Program, working alongside the instructor.

Join our Volunteer Information Session — TODAY!

We are hosting a short Zoom Information Session to introduce the program, explain the volunteer role, answer questions and share the next steps.

Monday, August 31 at 6:00 PM   - Online via Zoom

 Join the Information Session:
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86363333620?pwd=BxvbiaQDJ9tfjdlxcC27Iolvk0k5PA.1 

Whether you're ready to volunteer regularly or simply curious about the program, you're welcome to join us!

Important Tai Chi Schedule Update

Mónica’s popular Tai Chi classes will continue on their regular schedule every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Please note that there will be no classes on September 8 or 10, as Mónica will be out of town due to a personal commitment. Classes will continue as usual for the remainder of the month.

Don’t forget to register and reserve your place! Discounts are available when purchasing six or more sessions.

Keep Moving with Pilates!

Looking for a great way to end your week? Richie invites you to join his popular Pilates classes every Friday morning at MEL. Come strengthen your body, improve your flexibility, and enjoy an energizing start to your weekend!

Fridays at 10:45 a.m. Don’t forget to register and reserve your place.

U.S. Voter Assistance sessions continue at MEL this September, alternating between morning and afternoon hours to make it easier for community members to attend.

• Wednesday, September 2 - 4:30–7:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, September 9 - 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, September 16 - No session—MEL will be closed for Mexican Independence Day

• Wednesday, September 23 - 4:30–7:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, September 30 - 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Stop by during any of the scheduled sessions if you need assistance or information about voting from abroad.

As regular, MEL’s Writers’ Group will meet twice in September. Whether you are an experienced writer or simply looking for inspiration and a supportive creative community, join us to share ideas and keep your writing moving forward.

Wednesday, September 2 and 23rd at 11:00 a.m.

Fiction & Friends: Stoner by John Williams

MEL’s popular book club, Fiction & Friends, will meet on Thursday, September 24, to discuss Stoner by John Williams.

Born into a poor farming family in Missouri, William Stoner enters university to study agriculture but unexpectedly discovers a passion for literature. He chooses the life of a scholar, setting himself on a path marked by professional setbacks, a difficult marriage, lost love, and profound solitude.

Quiet, moving, and beautifully written, Stoner explores the meaning found within an outwardly ordinary life and has become one of the most admired American novels of the twentieth century.

Join us for a thoughtful and engaging conversation! Thursday, September 24 at 10:00 a.m.

Storytime Saturdays Are Back!

After a summer break, Storytime returns to MEL! We are delighted to welcome our youngest members back for mornings filled with stories, imagination, and fun.

Join us for Storytime on: Saturday, September 12 and 26  at  10:00 a.m.

But this is not just any month! On September 26, after Storytime, we will celebrate the children who completed MEL’s Summer Reading Challenge with a special party featuring a bounce house and a mini fair.

Is your child still working on the challenge—or haven’t you picked up a reading card yet? There is still time! Stop by MEL to get a card, complete the challenge, and join the celebration. We can’t wait to celebrate with our young readers!

Game On at MEL Returns—with Mexican Trivia!

Our first Game On at MEL was a wonderful success! Guests of all ages came together to play, laugh, and enjoy a lively morning with the community. For our second edition, we are adding a special new activity: Mexican Trivia!

Inspired by the trivia game we hosted in July for Canada Day and U.S. Independence Day, this new edition celebrates Mexico’s Independence Month with questions about the country’s history, culture, traditions, and more.

Not interested in trivia? No problem! Our regular game tables will remain available throughout the event, so everyone can choose how they would like to play and participate.

Bring your family and friends, test your knowledge, enjoy your favorite games, and make new memories with us. It will be a morning to remember!

Saturday, September 19 from 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Mexican Day Trivia starts 11:00 am

 Spanish Classes Are Back at MEL!

Ready to feel more at home in Mérida? Our new Spanish class cycle is starting this month at the Mérida English Library, and we’d love to have you join us!

Whether you're just beginning your Spanish journey or looking to build on what you already know, Asesorías de Idiomas Mérida, led by instructor Alfonso López, offers a friendly and practical environment where you can learn Spanish and gain confidence communicating in everyday situations.

What you can expect:

•  Three levels: Beginner to Intermediate
•  Small, friendly groups
•  Practical conversation
•  Course materials included
•  End-of-month quiz to track your progress
•  Friday Socials
•  Cultural events and activities

 New Tuition Rates - 1 Month — $900 MXN / 2 Months — $1,400 MXN

Choose the option that works best for you and keep building your Spanish skills throughout the season. Classes take place at the Mérida English Library. For schedules, levels, and course content, visit:

Spanish Classes at Mérida English Library

Questions or registration: asesoriasdeidiomasmerida@gmail.com 

Feeling lucky? Gather your friends and join us for another lively Bingo Night at MEL!

Come enjoy an evening filled with excitement, laughter, and friendly competition as you wait for the numbers that could complete your card. Whether you are a seasoned player or joining us for the first time, everyone is welcome.

Mark your calendar, invite your friends, and get ready to call BINGO!

Saturday, September 26 starting at 7:00 p.m.

Curious about the Fulbright Program? Come hear directly from students who have lived the experience!

Join us as Ana Cecilia Castillo Loeza, Gerardo Luna Sánchez, Raquel Salazar Chablé, and Carlos Pech Guzmán share their journeys, talk about the application process, life abroad, and what they learned along the way. Get inspired, ask questions, and discover where a Fulbright opportunity could take you!

Saturday, September 12 - 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Free admission with limited seating. Come listen, learn, and get inspired!

Coming Soon to MEL

There’s more to look forward to this fall! 🍂 In early October, MEL will welcome two special creative workshops: a Poetry Writing Workshop with Olya for those ready to explore their voice through words, and a Bookbinding Workshop for anyone interested in the art of creating books by hand.

Stay tuned—more details and registration information are coming soon!

Stephen Rajjotte - Barbara Burch - Todd Squitieri - Greg Reel and Russell King - Jeremy Miransky - Chase Watts - Ana María Darson - Barbara Burch - Luz Mejia and Emma - Fiona Coughenour - Lisa Spreitzer and Josh Goldstein - Elizabeth Cruz - Bunok Kravitz - Susan Davies - Annette and Steve Hodgson - Lewie and Dan Conner - Matt and Linda Shearer - Héctor Domínguez. 

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