I think about the opening of Tuck Everlasting every year at the beginning of August. The first few weeks of August are always a limbo period for us here in Colorado, where school typically starts mid-month. Here at my public library, the Summer Reading Program has ended, families are taking last minute vacations, and teens are filled with restless energy as summer break draws to a close.
This year, with COVID restrictions essentially gone, I’m curious to see how the Fall semester shakes out. Last year at this time, my library was closed to patrons two days a week, and we only offered a handful of in-person programs. I barely had any regulars in after school, when pre-COVID my teen space was generally packed. This year, we’re back to a normal schedule, and offering lots of programs. Our SRP had a record number of participants. Will this carry over to the school year? I really hope it does. What will things look like at the public library at this strange time we find ourselves in?
My teen volunteers and I are planning some fun events. In addition to regular monthly programs (Anime Club, Snark Attack, crafts) we’re going to try our hand at a Murder Mystery program in October, we’ve partnered with a local organization to lead a food waste program for kids (run by teens) at our town’s farmer’s market, and we’ve got some fun Take and Makes planned too.
I remain cautiously optimistic for the year ahead. Here’s hoping for a Fall semester that feels a little more like the good old pre-pandemic days!
Teen Services Underground 