Reaching Youth
by Amy Berkun, Young Adult Librarian
and Jodi L. Weisz, NMPL Director
While the New Milford Public Library is gearing up for its exciting modernization project, staff have also been busy doing outreach, particularly to young adults.
Amy Berkun, Young Adult Librarian and Digital Literacy Associate, Rachael Wright, have created a digital literacy program around the theme of, "Beyond Books." We are introducing New Milford's youth to digital resources that are teacher approved and research-level quality.
Recently, Amy visited New Milford High School's librarian, Lori Cerra. Together, they brainstormed collaborative ideas to offer students who stay in the school's media center before sports programs begin for the afternoon.
Going outside the Library one quickly learns the tremendous commitment to youth advocacy that exists in New Milford. Library employees jump at any chance they can to collaborate with youth agencies and advocates. We know a strong community has as its bedrock a seamless and supportive environment for youth. To this end, we have created the "Tween and Teen Advisory Library Board." Youth members will give input to a steady stream of programs and events. Teen leadership will ensure the Library remains modern, nimble and cool!
In November, "Greek Mythology Mania," will be offered on the 8th from 3:30 PM to 4:45 PM. and then on November 18th, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, we will offer "Free Perks with Your Library Card." Our regular
monthly YA programs
are taking off! "Dungeons and Dragons" meets on November 4th; "Games and Chess" meets on November 12th and 26th; "Write Stuff" (NMPL's Creative Writing Club) meets on November 13th and November 19th. The New Milford Public Library has teamed up with the New Milford Youth Agency for this wonderful program. We know there are many budding writers who live in New Milford.
Students can also request to be bused from Schaghticoke to the JPCC to participate in the "The Write Stuff." Registration takes place through the New Milford's Youth Agency's website.
At the recent CAN Forum, one survey result revealed that teens want to be more valued and listened to.
Indeed, our modernization project, a big focus of it, is the creation of two new spaces just for tweens and teens along with a renewed and revitalized space for children.
Our entire staff is youth focused. We are here to help with projects, study space, creative programming, parenting resources and outreach to schools and community organizations. For us, welcoming teens into the public library is a privilege. In our newly modernized space, we know, New Milford's youth will find their voices, share their passions and come to realize they have a steady and responsive "third space" where they will always be deeply listened to and valued.
For more information please contact Amy at
aberkun@biblio.org
or call her at the Children’s Department at 860-355-1191 x3.
