By Cheryl Mattox Berry
Allow me to tell you about a place where you can get free information, entertainment and food, including pizza. It’s called the public library. Eyeball roll, I know.
Who would spend time in a library unless she was writing a paper or working on a project for school, you ask? Students who are bored, don’t have a lot of money and need something to occupy their time.
Contrary to what you think, that old-looking building is not your mother’s library. In addition to borrowing books, there are all kinds of fun things to do and see. Here are a few activities for teens offered by libraries this summer:
1. Reading contests. Win prizes, including a gift card, digital camera, Kindle or an iPad, by reading books and using other library services.
2. Download music, videos and books.
3. Play video games and classic board games, such as chess, checkers and Scrabble.
4. Take a photography class.
5. Enjoy arts and crafts.
6. Join a book club.
7. Meet to watch anime, and draw and discuss anime books.
8. Enroll in a quit smoking class.
9. Free lunch certain days of the week.
10. ACT and SAT practice exams.
In addition, the library offers Internet access and use of a laptop. You’ll also find a teen reading section with books by your favorite authors.
Check out the calendar of events for teens at your local library. You can participate in as many programs as your time permits. Bring friends but only if they’re interested in the same activity. If not, go alone because you’ll certainly meet new people.
The library is a great place to escape a noisy household. It’s cool and quiet. If you don’t want to participate in a program, bring your MP3 player, find a cozy chair and read the latest fashion and entertainment magazines.