Zollinger Library announces January events, programs for McKinley County residents

Zollinger Library at the University of New Mexico Gallup campus is planning a month of January programming aimed at bringing people into the library and offering low barrier opportunities for social connection and creativity. The schedule runs throughout January 2026 and includes activities for teens, students, and other community members.

From January 20 through January 30 the library will hold the Great Zollinger Photo Hunt. Participants may pick up a game sheet, complete photo related tasks, and turn in the sheet to be entered into a drawing for a gift card. On January 27 the library will mark Chocolate Cake Day. Visitors who check out an item from the library that day will receive a chocolate cake snack while quantities last.

Family friendly leisure options continue on January 28 with Zollinger Trading Card Game Night at 4 p.m. Players can bring their own cards or use cards supplied by the library and play Pokemon, Yu Gi Oh, or Magic the Gathering while snacks are provided. The library will also host New Beginnings Films screenings on January 22 and January 29 at 4 p.m. in the conference room. The January 22 screening will be Cruel Intentions and the January 29 screening will be Hope Springs Eternal. Popcorn is provided on a first come basis.

These gatherings matter in McKinley County where community spaces for safe, affordable social activity are limited. Public libraries serve as de facto community centers, offering programming that supports mental wellbeing, reduces social isolation, and provides youth with constructive after school options. For residents with limited incomes or barriers to transportation, local library events can be an accessible source of enrichment and social support.

Organizers encourage anyone with questions or accommodation needs to contact the library directly. For information call 505 863 7531 or email markos@unm.edu. As local public institutions face budget and capacity pressures, sustained support for library programming remains an important policy lever for promoting community health and equity.