EqualAccess Grant helps library serve middle school kids
Over the summer, the library conducted a number of focus groups to determine how the library can best serve middle school students over the coming year. With the help of an EqualAccess grant through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, the library solicited input not only from the community, but also from a number of young adults (teens) who have agreed to serve on the Young Adult Advisory Board. This board is responsible for advising library staff about library activities for teens. And they’ve been very hard at work since October.

In November, the group hosted a Karaoke party, and for December they hosted a video gaming day. Subcommittees are in the process of planning an International Food Night and a workshop on creating your own video game.
The next meeting of the Advisory Group takes place on Thursday, January 8, at 4 p.m. to evaluate events and plan upcoming activities for teens.
The Gaming Committee will meet on Friday, January 9 at 4 p.m. to discuss purchasing games for the library, so come with suggestions.

The first Book Blog Committee will meet on Thursday, January 23 at 4 p.m. The committee will be responsible for setting up a blog devoted to popular teen reading.

This impressive and inspiring group of young people continues to contribute to our library program in a creative and positive way. They deserve much credit for the tireless role they fulfill for their library on behalf of their peers.

“Things for Teens to Do” is a new online service which has become part of Beebe Library’s new website. This feature is also part of the EqualAccess grant, which encourages the library to reach out in to the community and serve as a hub for community agencies. If you’re looking for something to do, check out the Young Adult menu on our website at www.wakefieldlibrary.org.

Categories: Library News
Tags: grant Youth Room, karaoke, middle school EqualAccess, teens, young adults