Merida English Library

The Merida English Library (MEL) is a non-profit library and vibrant community and cultural center located in the heart of Merida, Yucatan, dedicated to promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and cross-cultural connection through English-language resources and programming. Founded in 1994 when Elizabeth Dunkel stood up at an International Women’s Club brunch and said, “Let’s start an English library,” MEL was born out of a love for books and a desire to build community. With the help of Chloe Conaway de Pacheco and her lawyer to establish a non-profit civil association (A.C.), along with the generosity of Ellie Guidotti—who loaned her home as its first location—MEL began its humble beginnings with only a few donated shelves, some secondhand books, and boundless dedication. In its early years, the library was built by volunteers shelving books, cataloging donations, and sharing their love of reading. Marilyn Estes Smith, who organized the reference section, later bequeathed her home to become MEL’s permanent residence located on 53rd street in downtown Merida. From there, MEL quickly grew beyond books: from wine tastings and lively BBQ fundraisers to the famed Chili Cook-Off, to programs like Conversaciones con Amigos, MEL Nights, Story Time, and the Santa Ana Art Gallery Tours, the library has become a hub of learning and friendship. Today, MEL remains entirely community-supported—receiving no government funding—and is managed by a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, and its Library Collection Committee (LCC) curates and maintains an ever-evolving collection of books, puzzles, and more. MEL is more than a library. It is a labor of love, a space for connection, and a symbol of what’s possible when people come together to share knowledge, culture, and kindness! Follow our other social media accounts on Instagram – meridaenglishlibrary, Facebook – meridaenglishlibrary, and YouTube - meridaenglishlibrary2258 for more information!