Happy National Library Week! While I’m a fan of libraries and think they are pretty great places every week of the year, this year marks the 60th anniversary of National Library Week, which began in 1958.
Libraries aren’t just places to borrow books or study, though they’re certainly good for both of those. They’re also creative and engaging community centers where people can collaborate using new technologies and develop their skills and passions. And that makes them particularly great for kids.
As Albert Einstein said, “The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library.”
I worry that teens are pretty oblivious to what the library offers. They have all the answers in their phone, right? And it’s possible that many adults feel the same way. But libraries can be great places for teens with some pretty amazing resources.
These stats from the Young Adult Library Services Association offer some good insight:
- 97% of libraries have a dedicated teen section,
- 87% of public libraries offer services and programs for teens,
- 46% of libraries offer teens leadership roles via teen advisory groups, and
- There are more public libraries in the U.S. than McDonald’s or Starbucks.
If you haven’t checked out the local library’s teen offerings lately, take a peek. A quick look at my local library’s website showed some pretty helpful events, including a teen resume and job interview workshop, a prep session for upcoming AP tests, and a seminar on how to take better notes in class. There were also groups and events focused just on fun, including a Wii U Tournament, an Anime Club and showings of movies recent enough to still be considered cool. Tech was also well-covered, with a 3D printing session just for teens. Our library even has a green screen room.
Libraries also offer volunteer opportunities over the summer. Those are great for tweens and teens who have aged out of summer day camps but aren’t yet old enough to have a job, and those who are just looking to contribute to their communities.
Speaking of summer, one of our family goals for this summer will be regular trips to the library. For programs, to pick up movies, for CD’s and audiobooks to listen to on our road trips, and also just to see what’s happening there at any given time.
I realize that I often stop by the library when my teen isn’t with me, and I know that seeing me use the library regularly is really important. She did know that I checked out a few travel guides for our recent trip to New York and took them with us. They were full of great info and not purchasing them saved some money.
It’s possible that teens think the library isn’t cool, but a few visits may just change their mind. It can also help them learn about what an amazing resource it is for them now and will be far into the future.
What’s your favorite thing about your library?
You May Also Like: 9 Fun facts about public libraries
Prior Post: Check out the new trailer and poster for Solo: A Star Wars Story
Don’t miss a post! Please subscribe to Between Us Parents’ safe, spam-free email list in the box in the top right corner of the page!
Please like Between Us Parents on Facebook. You can also find Between Us Parents on Pinterest and Twitter.
